Over time, uncleaned CPAP machines can become breeding grounds for bacteria. Bacteria can damage the equipment, cause infections and create an odor. It will impact your wallet too, resulting in the need to replace parts more frequently. It's a good idea to read the cleaning and maintenance manual that was included with your CPAP system for specific instructions.

Washing your mask daily with mild soap and warm water or CPAP wipes daily can help reduce bacterial growth. Be sure to allow the mask to air dry completely before use. In addition, you should typically disinfect the mask once per week. You can do so by soaking it in a solution of two parts vinegar and three parts water. Rinse the mask thoroughly and allow it to dry after disinfecting. Once or twice per week, clean the nasal cannula or prongs of your CPAP machine with liquid soap and water. If you come down with a cold or the flu, replace the prongs once you are well again. Otherwise, you will likely need to replace the prongs about once every two weeks.

Most headgear should be hand washed as needed using a mild detergent. After washing, hang the headgear up to dry. Do not place it in the dryer. Like masks, tubing should be disinfected once per week. Soak the tubing in the vinegar solution mentioned above, rinse it completely and let it air dry.

On a daily basis, you should empty any unused water from the humidifier chamber. Then, wash it out with mild soap and warm water and rinse thoroughly. Once per month, soak the chamber in the vinegar solution mentioned above and rinse with warm water. If your CPAP unit has washable air filters, you should remove them once per week and clean them with warm water. Do not use soap. Let the filter dry completely before you insert it back into the machine. Disposable filters that are replaced periodically do not usually need to be cleaned; they should be replaced based on the manufacturer's recommendation and before they appear visibly dirty.

Many people find it difficult to wash their CPAP equipment on a daily basis due to their busy schedules. CPAP wipes can help speed up cleaning. Wipes are towelettes that have been soaked in a mild cleansing solution. To use one, you simply remove a towelette from the package and rub it over the part that you wish to clean. After use, the wipe is thrown away. CPAP wipes can be used to clean the mask, humidifier chamber and nasal prongs of your machine.

Sanitizing machines are available that can help make cleaning CPAP equipment easier. Depending on the model, the sanitizer may clean just the mask or the mask, tubing and humidifier chamber. The sanitizers typically use activated oxygen or ozone to kill any bacteria present in the CPAP parts. If you purchase a sanitizing machine, you can use it instead of a vinegar solution for disinfecting. Although the machines do require a large initial investment, they may save you money over time by helping to extend the life of your equipment.

CPAP machines require ongoing maintenance to continue to function properly. Generally, you will need to replace the filters in the unit at least twice per year. Masks and headgear generally require replacement once or twice annually. Tubing can typically last for one to two years, and the humidifier chamber will likely need replacing every one to three years. Be sure to inspect your CPAP equipment regularly to look for any signs of wear and tear. Even if it is ahead of schedule, you should always replace a worn or damaged part to help keep your CPAP machine working well.