what is a good way to disinfect the cpap machine after weeks of usage?

I see you didn't receive a reply. I would also like to know how people disinfect their mask, etc.


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diagnoses with osa in 1997.

turk wrote:

what is a good way to disinfect the cpap machine after weeks of usage?

Hi,

I don't think that disinfectant is good for any mask, possibly with the exception of the plastic frame. The silicone or gel parts which are in contact with the skin do not react well to such substances.

Manufacturers instructions usually advise to wash out the mask in luke warm water daily (I think) with a proper wash in soapy water and luke warm water weekly. I don't think that disinfectant is required if you follow the manufacturers instructions, after all the mask is only used by one person.

Daniel

The person who set my machine also said that I did not need to sterilize the mask, or any part of my machine for that matter....just use warm soapy water. I do put vinegar and water in my water container for the humidifier. Not every time I wash it though. Even though I use distilled water, it still looks like it gets lime in it. And I have no recipe for it, I just use a small amount of vinegar to a full container of water and then wash with liquid detergent and rinse really well. It's not necessary from what he said. I'm glad you mentioned that about the mask, Daniel. I hadn't thought about that at all. I'm learning so much here! And I'm glad other people are asking all the questions I have had for such a long time.


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diagnoses with osa in 1997.

KathlynMarie wrote:

The person who set my machine also said that I did not need to sterilize the mask, or any part of my machine for that matter....just use warm soapy water. I do put vinegar and water in my water container for the humidifier. Not every time I wash it though. Even though I use distilled water, it still looks like it gets lime in it. And I have no recipe for it, I just use a small amount of vinegar to a full container of water and then wash with liquid detergent and rinse really well. It's not necessary from what he said. I'm glad you mentioned that about the mask, Daniel. I hadn't thought about that at all. I'm learning so much here! And I'm glad other people are asking all the questions I have had for such a long time.

Hi,

I think you should ask your supplier about putting vinegar in the water chamber for the humidifier. It would be OK for cleaning it, but if it is mixed with your distilled water you will be constantly inhaling the fumes. Some years ago I spoke to a DME supplier who advised against any additives in the water chamber, particularly aromatherapy oils. He was of the opinion that such additives were not desgned for constant inhalation, no matter how well diluted.

Thankfully I don't need to use a humidifier, but I know plenty who do and most say that even with distilled water a 'scum' does develop and needs to be cleaned to stop a build up. Good success is reported in placing the metal base of the chamber in the dishwasher for cleaning. I think it's a case of whatever works.

Funny, once diagnosed you are inclined to feel alone and are afraid to ask questions in case others think you are strange, however I can safely say that the questions being asked on this forum are no different to those being asked on similar forums and helplines. It's also nice to see that the answers and suggestions are as helpful and kind as they have always been.

Kind regards,

Daniel.

I don't put vinegar in the chamber when I'm using it. Only to clean it. Sorry I was not very clear about that. I agree it would not be good to use it that way. I'd probably pass out from the fumes for sure, lol. I am so grateful for finding this board. Too bad I hadn't when I first was diagnosed several years ago. But glad it's here now.


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diagnoses with osa in 1997.

My DME told me to rinse all hoses, the mask and the humidifier chamber with white vinegar every week.  I was also told to rinse the filter to the machine in warm, soapy water once a month.  I use the Breeze with nasal pillows and I rinse them in soapy water every morning.

merlin wrote:

My DME told me to rinse all hoses, the mask and the humidifier chamber with white vinegar every week.  I was also told to rinse the filter to the machine in warm, soapy water once a month.  I use the Breeze with nasal pillows and I rinse them in soapy water every morning.

Merlin,

I can understand the humidifier chamber being cleaned with vinegar, but certainly not the mask and hose. Vinegar is an acid.

I would be very careful of such instructions. CPAP manufacturers certainly don't issue such instructions.

Daniel

I just spoke with Technical Support at Puritan Bennett (the maker of my equipment) and they say that a solution of 10% white vinegar and 90% water would not cause any problems.  They recommend a weekly rinse with warm soapy water.  Thanks for your input - Daniel.  You may have saved me some trouble in the future.

merlin wrote:

My DME told me to rinse all hoses, the mask and the humidifier chamber with white vinegar every week.  I was also told to rinse the filter to the machine in warm, soapy water once a month.  I use the Breeze with nasal pillows and I rinse them in soapy water every morning.

Merlin,

I was told the same thing... hose, mask, humidifier soaked
in vinegar/water solution for 30 minutes once a week. Then
rinse and dry the re-usable filter with soapy water.

Also, the headgear strap... I wash it with my favorite shampoo
every couple of days.

Valerie

My physician, and I trust him without question as he uses a CPAP too, reports that we no longer have to use any disinfectants or vinegar.  He reports that we must throughly wash with warm soapy water, our humidifier tank and baffles(if any), our hoses, and our masks(be sure to take them completely apart).  Be sure to dry all parts on a towel and out of direct sunlight.  What a relief!!!


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Joe Camel

OSA Feb '04
S-7 EliteCPAP Feb '04
AutoSet Spirit July '04
VPAPIII August '05 (CHF & MCTD)
Heated Humification
Mirage Activa Nasal Mask(previous Mirage Ultra Nasal Mask, Breese Nasal Pillows, Breese Nasal Mask)

Never fear Haku is hear with some input

You should follow the CPAP manufacturer’s specifications to clean your CPAP machine. Disposable filters may be replaced every month. Generally, you should clean your mask daily, we recommend you soak the mask in non-lanolin antibacterial soapy water for 10-minutes, rinse and air dry. DO NOT USE ANY ALCOHOL cleaners on the mask! Your humidification system should be emptied each morning and leave it open to air-dry all day. Refill each night with distilled water. About once a week clean the water chamber and tubing with a solution of 3 parts water and 1 part vinegar, rinse and air dry.


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