How to Clean and Maintain Your CPAP Machine

Regularly cleaning your CPAP machine isn't just about hygiene — a buildup of bacteria, oils, and moisture in your mask and tubing can affect the quality of your therapy and even cause skin irritation or respiratory issues. Here's a simple routine to keep your equipment clean and functioning well.

Daily Cleaning

Each morning after use:

1. Wipe down your mask with a soft cloth or CPAP wipe to remove facial oils and moisture.
2. Empty and rinse the humidifier water chamber if your machine has one — always use distilled water, never tap water, to prevent mineral buildup.
3. Let everything air dry completely before your next use, away from direct sunlight.

Weekly Cleaning

Once a week, give your equipment a deeper clean:

1. Disconnect the mask, tubing, and headgear.
2. Wash the mask cushion and tubing in warm water with a small amount of mild, unscented soap. Avoid strong detergents, alcohol, or bleach — these can degrade the silicone and plastic components over time.
3. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue, since leftover soap can irritate your skin or airways.
4. Hang the tubing up to air dry fully before reassembling — trapped moisture inside the tube can encourage mold growth.

Monthly Maintenance

1. Check and replace filters as needed — most CPAP machines use disposable foam or reusable filters that should be checked monthly and replaced roughly every 1–3 months depending on your environment (more frequently if you're in a dusty area).
2. Inspect the mask cushion for signs of wear, cracking, or loss of seal — a worn cushion won't form a proper seal and can reduce therapy effectiveness.
3. Check tubing for cracks or kinks that could affect airflow.

What You Should Never Do

• Never submerge the main machine unit in water — only the mask, tubing, and humidifier chamber should be washed.
• Never use hot water, as it can warp plastic components.
• Never use scented soaps, essential oils, or vinegar-based solutions unless specifically approved by your equipment's manufacturer guidelines.

Need Replacement Parts?

Masks, filters, and tubing naturally wear out over time and should be replaced periodically for both hygiene and therapy effectiveness. Browse our range of CPAP masks and accessories, including filters and tubing, all genuine and manufacturer-approved.

If you're unsure what parts your specific machine model needs, contact our team — we're happy to help you find the exact right replacement.