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Time it takes: 5 minutes

Supplies you’ll need for cleaning:

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A sink or tub

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Warm, drinking-quality water
(86°F/30°C)

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Mild soap

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A clean towel

Cleaning your CPAP mask cushion, frame & headgear

  • AirFit series, Swift, Mirage, Quattro and Pixi masks
  • AirTouch F20 cushion 1 Source: Studies show that AirTouch mask cushions are hygienic to use for one month without cleaning. Learn more about our AirTouch mask here: AirTouch F20.

Daily cleaning tips:

1

Unplug your CPAP machine from the power source.

2

Disconnect the mask and air tubing from the CPAP machine.

3

Disassemble your mask into 3 parts (headgear, cushion and frame).

4

In a sink or tub, clean your mask cushion and headgear to remove any oils. Gently rub with soap and warm, drinking-quality water.

Avoid using stronger cleaning products, including dish detergents, as they may damage the mask or leave harmful residue.

5

Rinse again thoroughly with warm, drinking-quality water.

6

Place the cushion and frame on a flat surface, on top of a towel, to dry. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight.

Air tubing cleaning tips

  • ClimateLineAir™ heated tube, SlimLine™ and standard tubing

Weekly cleaning tips:

1

Unplug your CPAP machine from the power source.

2

Disconnect the air tubing/hose from your mask and CPAP machine.

3

In a sink or tub, rinse the inside and outside of the air tubing with mild soap and warm, drinking-quality water. Avoid using stronger cleaning products, including dish detergents, as they may damage the air tubing or leave harmful residue.

4

Rinse again thoroughly with warm, drinking-quality water.

5

Place the air tubing on a flat surface, on top of a towel, to dry. Avoid placing in direct sunlight.

Humidifier tub cleaning tips

Daily cleaning tips:

1

Unplug your CPAP machine from the power source.

2

Disconnect the humidifier tub from the CPAP machine.

3

In a sink or tub, rinse the humidifier tub with mild soap and warm, drinking-quality water. Avoid using stronger cleaning products, including dish detergents, as they may damage the humidifier tub or leave harmful residue.

4

Rinse again thoroughly with warm, drinking-quality water.

5

Place the humidifier tub on a flat surface, on top of a towel, to dry. Avoid placing in direct sunlight.

6

The humidifier tub should always be clean, clear and free of discoloration.

Weekly cleaning tips:

1

Once a week, soak your humidifier tub in a solution of 1-part white vinegar and 1-part water for 15-20 minutes.

2

After soaking, rinse thoroughly with warm, drinking-quality water.

3

Place the humidifier tub on a flat surface, on top of a towel, to dry. Avoid placing in direct sunlight.

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CPAP cleaning FAQs

Can I continue to use my CPAP machine if I’m diagnosed with COVID-19?

Coronavirus doesn’t change your sleep apnea diagnosis – or your need to continue using CPAP therapy. You should continue to use your CPAP machine because a full night’s sleep benefits your overall health. If you have been diagnosed with COVID-19, you need to follow the medical advice from your healthcare provider.

In the event of COVID-19 diagnosis, read the American Thoracic Society’s tips on daily mask cleaning. Their informational guide includes additional information and resources on COVID-19 diagnosis and PAP therapy usage. Please refer to your specific ResMed User Guide for specific step-by-step instructions on cleaning your device and mask.

What should I NOT use to clean my mask?

We strongly discourage you from using the products/solutions listed below to clean CPAP equipment, as the residual vapors can be harmful if inhaled.

  • Aromatic-based solutions or scented oils (e.g. eucalyptus or essential oils)
  • Antibacterial soaps
  • Dish Detergent (even if they are mild)
  • Alcohol
  • Bleach
  • Strong-smelling products (e.g. soaps with citrus)
  • Washing machine or dryer

Can I use an ozone device with my ResMed machine?

ResMed has observed that prolonged and repeated use of an ozone device may eventually cause internal damage to a ResMed machine, leading to an increase in motor noise. The ResMed limited warranty excludes damage to ResMed machines caused by use of ozone devices.

Why can’t I use these products to clean my mask?

Antibacterial soaps, among others, may damage your mask and cause cracks, which may lead to skin irritation and poor mask performance.

The use of a washing machine or dryer to clean CPAP equipment is likely to cause damage and the need for replacement. Never iron headgear, as the material is heat-sensitive and could be damaged.

Which CPAP parts do I need to clean and how often?

Daily:

  • Mask cushion
  • Air tubing
  • Humidifier water tub

Weekly:

  • Mask frame system
  • Mask headgear

What to look for when checking your CPAP equipment

Every month

Mask cushions and pillows

  • Have the edges of your cushion or pillows become stiff or cracked?
  • Has your cushion changed color?
  • Are you experiencing discomfort, redness or skin irritation?

Machine air filters

  • Does your filter show signs of wear such as discoloration, holes or tears?

Every 3 months

Mask frame (excluding headgear)

  • Are you experiencing excessive leaks?

Tubing (standard or heated)

  • Has your tubing begun to change to an opaque color?
  • Has your tubing developed cracks or tears?

Every 6 months

Headgear and chin strap

  • Has your headgear stretched?
  • Are you over-tightening to avoid leaks?

Humidifier water tub

  • Has the water chamber become discolored or cloudy?
  • Do you see any cracks or pitted areas?
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Need help replacing and ordering your CPAP supplies?

All ResMed CPAP supplies and replacement parts can be purchased separately through CPAP equipment stores across the United States or through an online retailer.

References

1

Source: Studies show that AirTouch mask cushions are hygienic to use for one month without cleaning. Learn more about our AirTouch mask here: AirTouch F20.

1

Source: Studies show that AirTouch mask cushions are hygienic to use for one month without cleaning. Learn more about our AirTouch mask here: AirTouch F20.

2

Source: Different insurers have different reimbursement replacement schedules, so make sure you consult with your CPAP equipment provider for more information.