How to Clean a CPAP Humidifier That Is Growing Mold
A Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine provides its users with a steady volume of air that keeps their airways open while they sleep. Those who suffer from sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing conditions that can cause you to stop breathing benefit from using a CPAP machine.
Maintaining your CPAP machine properly is essential to keep it operating effectively. Your doctor will show you how to clean your CPAP equipment properly when you receive your machine. If your machine starts to show signs of mold growth, you need to remove it as quickly as possible. Mold can cause serious health problems, particularly in the respiratory system, so inspect your CPAP machine regularly for mold growth.
Things You Will Need
- White vinegar
- Soft cloths
- Distilled water
Tip
Always use plain distilled water in your CPAP machine to prevent mold from forming. Detach the humidifier from your CPAP machine each morning to allow it to dry out. Remove and hang your mask and tubing to allow them to dry out each day as well. Clean your CPAP machine, tubing and mask regularly to help prevent mold growth.
Warning
Mold can cause respiratory illnesses; keep your CPAP equipment properly maintained to prevent mold growth.
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Remove the tubing, mask and humidifier from the CPAP machine.
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Soak the tubing and the mask for at least 30 minutes in a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 1 part water.
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Clean the humidifier with undiluted white vinegar and a soft cloth while the tubing and mask soak. Make sure you get the vinegar into all corners of the humidifier. If you cannot remove the mold completely, you need to replace the humidifier.
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Rinse the humidifier with fresh distilled water and allow it to air dry completely.
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Examine the tubing and mask to be sure there is no mold inside either. If you cannot remove all of the mold, you have to replace them. Rinse the tubing and mask with fresh distilled water and allow them to air dry.
The Drip Cap
- A Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine provides its users with a steady volume of air that keeps their airways open while they sleep.
- Those who suffer from sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing conditions that can cause you to stop breathing benefit from using a CPAP machine.
- If you cannot remove the mold completely, you need to replace the humidifier.
- Rinse the tubing and mask with fresh distilled water and allow them to air dry.
References
Writer Bio
Cricket Webber began writing for fun as a young adult and started writing professionally in 2010. She is based in the deep South. Webber specializes in articles on greener living. Her work has appeared in various online publications. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in education from Converse College.
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