It is important to be on the lookout for the supply needed for proper CPAP functioning in order to maintain its cleanliness. For a Canadian user of CPAP equipment, it is very important to wash and clean your CPAP mask, tubing, filters as well as other accessories because this prolongs the life span of the equipment and will also make the sleep apnea therapy more effective. Failure to practice this habit increases bacteria formation, respiratory infections or problems with the equipment. The following is a breakdown of the do’s for Canadians when cleaning your CPAP supplies.
1. Do Clean Your CPAP Mask Daily
The first part of the CPAP equipment that people frequently give much consideration to is the mask because it covers the face for a few hours of the night. These cause oil build up on the mask, sweat and any other kind of moisture, which leads to bacterial build up. Tip: it is necessary to wash the mask cushion using warm water and diluted mild soap without exposing the mask to fragrances. When cleaning the surface area, you do not require any kind of special washing soap, detergent or glass cleaning solution.
Just use and soft cloth or sponge and wipe off the surface taking care to wipe off any dirt with such a cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaning products as they cause a break down to the material.
If this is a concern, one should use the hypoallergenic cleaning products that can easily be found at CPAP supplies Canada shops. It is recommended that the masks should be hung to dry after washing or ironing, and avoid the use of a dryer since the heat can damage the mask material and also make the mask to develop some sort of a smell, hence keeping at least one mask in the car to minimize chances of skin rashes due to moisture and mask leaks.
2. Can I Use Distilled Water in the Humidifiers
CPAP humidifiers deliver water that can prevent the drying out of the tissues in our airway when we are asleep. Nonetheless, normal tap water contains mineral deposit that may accumulate in the water chamber and damage the humidifier. There is one very important reminder when using a CPAP humidifier – you must only use distilled water in the machine. Not only does this prevent the scale and residue but it also helps to ensure that you are breathing clean water that is free from minerals.
Besides that, it is recommended to use distilled water, and clean and fill the humidifier with water on a daily basis. Before use, it should be thoroughly washed with water then let it dry and then you add water to it again. Performing this routine will keep the humidifier lasting longer and also improve on the air quality that you inhale.
3. Do Clean Your CPAP Tubing Weekly
Your CPAP tubing is used in ensuring that air gets to your mask from the actual machine. As time passes, it gathers dirt combined with stains, mold, and bacteria which are dangerous for people within a home. It is recommended that the tubing of the Canadian CPAP must be cleaned at least once a week.
To clean the tubing, one has to wet it in warm soapy water for some time than rinse in warm water. Rinse the water with the tube in order to remove all the dirt collected on the inner part of the pipe. After washing the tubing, it is supposed to be hanged as aforesaid in a well aired position to dry to the best of its possibility. A few sufferers of CPAP prefer tubular brushes which may be used in washing the tubes and can effectively dislodge hard deposits.
4. How often should you change your CPAP Filters
The filters of your CPAP machine are actually designed to catch dust, pollen and any other particles so that you are breathing clean air. It was recommended that filter maintenance plays an important role for Canadians, especially for everyone who has allergy season or living in the high pollution area.
For open-ended filters that are disposable, the recommended period is two weeks; however, filters that are reusable have to be washed and thoroughly dried every week. This means that if the filter looks dirty and has lost its color or you feel that it has)):
It has become clogged then it is time to change it. The majority of supplies Canada stores have filters for different machines’ models, so the choice is not an issue.
5. Don’t Store Your CPAP Supplies Incorrectly
To ensure your CPAP supplies are safe from dust and moisture, and do not get damaged by chance, you should store them in a clean and dry place. That is after washing, all parts should be dried well before they are kept away. It is also important not to store CPAP equipment in the bathroom or other humid areas of your home as mold starts to form.
Conclusion
It is crucial for the life changing CPAP therapy of Canadians to understand that your CPAP supplies need regular cleaning and maintenance. Here are some cleaning “Do’s” which when adhered to will assist in keeping infection levels low and assist in prolonging the life of your related supplies on your CPAP equipment. When in doubt ask CPAP supplies Canada retailers about the right cleaning products to use and right cleaning methods for your equipment.
