CleanCPAP

How to Handle Mold in Your CPAP Humidifier Tank (and How to Avoid It)

CPAP machines are designed to send pressurized oxygen into airways to help sleep apnea sufferers breathe evenly and consistently during sleep. Patients often face problems because this air, because it does not have any moisture, can be too dry and cold. These problems include sneezing, dry mouth, burning of nasal passages, runny nose, allergic and sinus reactions, and more. Patients who are over age 60 are five times more likely to require heated humidification to avoid these side effects.

Never worry about mold again.

To reduce the effects of breathing dry and cold air through the CPAP device, humidity is added as a comfort feature. CPAP machines use two types of humidifiers to add moisture to the airstream and reduce irritation in the nasal passages: cool pass over and heated. The cool pass over humidifiers move room temperature air over a chamber of room temperature water. A heated humidifier heats the water that goes into the air, which then passes through the tubing for breathing. This heated and moisture-laden air provides more comfort while breathing compared to cold and dry air. 

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What causes the development of mold in a CPAP humidifier tank?

This humidification of the air is accomplished by CPAP humidifiers. This is a removable water tank that can be taken out to add or remove water or for cleaning purposes. Out of all the components of your CPAP machine, the threat of mold in your CPAP humidifier tank is the highest. This is because mold thrives in places that have perpetual airflow, moisture, and organic matter. Growth of mold in CPAP humidifier is a certainty without regular sanitation.

How do you get rid of mold in a CPAP humidifier tank?

Mold in a CPAP humidifier tank is a very common and hazardous problem. The solution is quite simple, but can be challenging – cleaning your CPAP thoroughly and regularly. There are two different ways of eliminating mold in a CPAP humidifier tank: manually or by using CPAP cleaners. 

How do you remove mold in a CPAP humidifier tank manually?

If you are methodical, rigorous, and meticulous, manually removing mold in your CPAP humidifier tank can be sufficient. You begin by removing the tank and dumping out any remaining water from it. You’ll need to soak it for about 30 minutes in a solution of 1 part vinegar and five parts water before rinsing thoroughly and letting it dry. Some people also choose a mild soap or baby shampoo instead of vinegar. There are many soaps available on the market that you can choose from for cleaning your CPAP.

Sometimes CPAP users get incorrect information regarding which of the home-based cleaning supplies are actually good for your CPAP. Contrary to some advice, baby wipes, bleach, and hydrogen peroxide are not to be used. Bleach and hydrogen peroxide are harmful to your CPAP, and breathing in their fumes can be hazardous to your health. 

Baby wipes are ineffective as they are not strong enough to clean your CPAP and might have allergenic fragrances added to them. There are customized CPAP wipes available at CleanCPAP.net that can give you the perfect finish for your CPAP cleaning. But it is essential to understand that you cannot rely on CPAP wipes being enough for your CPAP’s daily routine of sanitization. They are a good help in a hurry or when you’re traveling but do not replace a thorough cleaning in any way.

How do you remove mold in a CPAP humidifier tank using a CPAP cleaner?

While you can manually clean mold in a CPAP humidifier tank, doing so on a daily basis can be a long and tedious process. In the long run, it can also prove ineffective. With manual cleaning, you can never ensure a standard performance. There is always a chance that you’ll miss  a corner, which can lead to the growth of mold in a CPAP humidifier tank despite your best efforts.  

The solution is automatic CPAP cleaners. They are a cost-effective method to ensure that your CPAP humidifier tank is mold-free. These cleaners perform thorough and effective sanitation in one simple step. All you need to do is place your dirty CPAP humidifier tank in the bag, close the bag, and switch on the CPAP cleaner. Many CPAP cleaners work using ozone or activated oxygen technology. Others use the power of UV Light.

CPAP cleaners are easy-to-use, light-weight, and portable. They are silent and sleek. As they maintain a 99.9% germ eradication standard, they are the best companion for your CPAP machine and your best bet for eliminating mold in your CPAP humidifier tank. 

How do you avoid mold in your CPAP humidifier tank in the future?

Your CPAP machine takes care of you, and it will keep doing so as long as you return the favor. If you are diligent about your CPAP’s cleanliness, you will never face any mold issues. In addition to causing a number of health hazards, moldy or dirty humidifier tanks can also shorten the lifespan of your CPAP machine. To avoid CPAP humidifier tank mold, follow a faithful routine of changing the water in the tank every day and clean it at least once a week. 

You can ease the time-consuming burden of cleaning your CPAP humidifier tank and the rest of your machine’s components by bringing an automatic CPAP cleaner into your life. You’ll also ensure that you’re getting the most efficient and effective cleaning possible, protecting both your health and your CPAP machine. Visit our CPAP cleaner shop and find the one that best fits your life and your budget.

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