Article · 2 min read
Cleaning and Maintaining CPAP Equipment
Proper CPAP maintenance keeps your therapy effective and hygienic. Learn how often to clean your mask, tubing, and humidifier.
General information, not medical advice. Read our disclaimer.
CPAP · CARE
CPAP care at a glance
- DailyClean your mask
- WeeklyWash tubing
- MonthlyReplace disposable filters
- 3–5yearsReplace the machine
- Daily mask cleaning helps prevent skin irritation and bacteria.
- Use only distilled water in your humidifier.
- Replace supplies on schedule for the best therapy.
- Avoid UV sanitizers, which may damage your equipment.
Clean your CPAP mask every day and wash the tubing every week. Change filters monthly, and replace mask cushions every 1-3 months. Regular cleaning makes your equipment last longer and stops bacteria from building up. It also keeps your therapy comfortable and working well.
What should you clean every day?
Daily mask cleaning prevents skin irritation and bacteria.
- Mask cushion — Wipe it with a damp cloth or a CPAP wipe.
- Humidifier chamber — Empty it and rinse it out.
- Water — Refill the chamber with distilled water before bed. Use only distilled water in your humidifier.
What should you clean every week?
- Mask, headgear and tubing — Wash them in warm, soapy water.
- Drying — Rinse everything well and let it air dry.
- Humidifier chamber — Clean it with a mix of vinegar and water.
What needs care every month or as needed?
- Disposable filters — Replace them every month.
- Reusable filters — Wash them every month.
- Mask cushions — Check them for wear.
How often should you replace CPAP parts?
Replace supplies on schedule for the best therapy.
- Mask cushions — Every 1-3 months.
- Full mask — Every 3-6 months.
- Tubing — Every 3-6 months.
- Headgear — Every 6 months.
- Humidifier chamber — Every 6 months.
- Machine — Every 3-5 years.
What should you avoid?
Avoid UV sanitizers. These are gadgets that use ultraviolet light to clean, and they may damage your equipment.
CPAP · CLEANING
Your cleaning routine
| What to do | |
|---|---|
| DailyDeciding factor | Wipe mask cushion; empty, rinse and refill humidifier with distilled water |
| Weekly | Wash mask, headgear and tubing in warm soapy water; air dry |
| Weekly | Clean humidifier chamber with vinegar and water |
| Monthly | Replace disposable filters; wash reusable filters; check cushions for wear |
CPAP · SUPPLIES
When to replace parts
| Replace every | |
|---|---|
| Mask cushions | 1–3 months |
| Full mask | 3–6 months |
| Tubing | 3–6 months |
| Headgear | 6 months |
| Humidifier chamber | 6 months |
| Machine | 3–5 years |
Watch and learn
Common questions
How often should I clean my CPAP?
Trusted medical sources
This page follows guidance and research from leading medical organizations.
Further reading
- AASMCPAP Therapy
- Sleep FoundationCPAP Machines
- NHLBIPAP Therapy Overview
- AASMObstructive Sleep Apnea
- NHLBISleep Apnea Information
- Mayo ClinicOSA Overview