Cleaning a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure therapy) machine regularly is necessary to prevent the buildup of germs and bacteria. But it can be a time-consuming process.
Here are 5 popular CPAP cleaners available on the market that may make routine cleaning easier.
5 popular CPAP cleaners
- SoClean 2: The SoClean 2 is a large, non-portable cleaner that uses activated oxygen to kill germs and takes about 7 minutes to clean the CPAP machine.
- Sleep8: The Sleep8 is a small, silent, and portable device that uses activated oxygen to get rid of the bacteria and mold in the CPAP machine.
- VirtuCLEAN 1: The VirtuCLEAN 1 is slightly larger than portable options and takes about 30 minutes for cleaning. It uses ozone rays.
- VirtuCLEAN 2: The VirtuCLEAN 2 is a portable device that kills germs in a very short amount of time.
- Lumin: The Lumin is a non-portable device that uses ultraviolet rays for its cleaning action. It takes about 5 minutes to clean the CPAP machine.
How do you clean a CPAP machine?
Because CPAP machines are all different, there is no one way to clean or disinfect them. However, all detachable parts can be removed and rinsed and cleaned with soap and water.
The detachable hoses and connectors, as well as the face or nose mask, can be soaked in soapy water and then rinsed and hung to air dry. After air drying, wipe every part with a clean and dry towel to remove any residue.
Manual methods for cleaning include:
- Mild soap with water
- White vinegar
- Warm water
- Non-abrasive towel
Automated cleaning methods can also be used for making cleaning faster and easier:
- Ozone gas: Effective but not a very safe method, as ozone gas can leak out of the machine and is extremely toxic if inhaled.
- Ultraviolet rays: Effective due to its germicidal properties but has not been approved by the FDA yet.
Who is CPAP therapy for?
CPAP is mostly prescribed for people suffering from obstructive sleep apnea. CPAP machines provide continuous positive pressure to the patient to help them breathe and prevent airway collapse.
In people with sleep apnea, the airway struggles to stay open and collapses in sleep. In some cases, it is blocked by the tongue falling backward or even enlarged tonsils.
Due to this blockage, enough oxygen does not reach the lungs, thus creating a hypoxic condition in the body. With the CPAP machine, positive pressure on the airways helps:
- Reduce or eliminate snoring
- Keep airways open for smoother ventilation
- Improve quality of sleep and reduce waking due to breathing difficulty
- Reduce daytime sleepiness
- Lower high blood pressure
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
American Sleep Association. How to Clean Your CPAP. https://www.sleepassociation.org/sleep-apnea/cpap-treatment/how-to-clean-your-cpap/
Repasky D. Ultimate How to Guide: Best Ways To Clean Your CPAP. CPAP.com. https://www.cpap.com/blog/need-know-cpap-cleaning/
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