Best CPAP Cleaners

CPAP Cleaners: Keeping Your Therapy Hygienic

That musty smell after a few days? It's bacteria thriving in warm, moist equipment. Here's what actually works.

Cleaning Methods Compared
Ozone (Activated Oxygen):

Kills 99.9% of bacteria and mold
- Penetrates tubing and chambers
- Requires 30-60 minute wait after cleaning
- Creates slight odor initially
- FDA has concerns—research ongoing

UV-C Light:
- Hospital-grade sanitization
- 5-minute cycles
- No chemicals or odors
- Only cleans what light touches
- Can't clean inside tubing

Manual Cleaning (Still Important!):
- Mild soap and water
- Removes oils, dirt, and residue
- Should be done daily for cushion
- Weekly for tubing and chamber
- UV/ozone supplements but doesn't replace

### What to Clean and When
Daily:
- Mask cushion (wipe with mask wipe or wash)
- Face where mask contacts

Weekly:
- Full mask assembly
- Humidifier chamber
- Tubing (hang to dry completely)

Monthly:
- Filters (check type—some are disposable)
- Full deep clean of everything
- Headgear (hand wash)

### The Controversy
The FDA has issued warnings about ozone-based cleaners due to potential respiratory irritation. UV cleaners avoid this but don't clean tubing interiors. Many sleep doctors recommend:
1. Daily mild soap cleaning of mask
2. Weekly sanitizing as supplement
3. Don't skip manual cleaning entirely