CPAP Maintenance

How to maintain your CPAP devices, masks and accessories

Each manufacturer has specific cleaning guidelines for their devices, masks and accessories – particularly the cushion between the mask and the face, which can be quite fragile.

However, these basic guidelines are typical to all devices:

• Wipe the external surfaces with a cloth dampened in soapy water
• The humidifier, where fitted, should be dried every day and cleaned thoroughly each week with warm soapy water
• The mask should be disassembled and washed every day, being gentle with the cushion and also carefully removing any facial oils from the cushion – follow the manufacturer’s care instructions
• Any washable air filters should be cleaned and dried weekly and disposable filters replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions
• The headgear – the straps that hold your mask on – should be cleaned each week, or when needed
• Ensure that the CPAP device, filters, air supply pipe, mask and accessories are dry before you use them again