| Question of the Month
This feature is in response to patient inquiries made to Gaylord’s clinical staff. While we can’t answer individual questions, we will respond to general questions of interest or concern to our readership.
Question:
“How do I clean my mask? Do I need to clean the hose, too?”
Answer:
When you received your new mask it probably came unassembled in the package. The therapist most likely assembled the mask for you and showed you how to apply it. When clean the mask at home, it is not necessary to completely disassemble it. Repeated disassembling and reassembling the mask could wear it out before it’s time. The mask should be cleaned every day or two with a mild detergent. Stay away from harsh soaps and perfumes. Do not use bleach, peroxide or alcohol. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when you are cleaning your CPAP equipment.
To clean the mask, disassemble the plastic cushion on the front of the mask only if it is removable. Remove the headgear from the mask and wash it and the cushion in warm, soapy water. You can also wash the headgear, if needed. Rinse well to remove any soap residue and let air dry on paper towels. Make sure the mask is completely dry before you reassemble it. When replacing the cushion on the mask, take care to put it on in the correct direction.
As for cleaning the hose, it is suggested to clean it daily if you are using a humidifier with your system. Condensation from the humidifier may collect in the hose. If left standing, bacteria may form causing more problems. If you don’t use a humidifier, cleaning the hose once a week should be adequate.
If you do clean the hose, the same procedure is used as is used for cleaning the mask with one exception. The hose should be hung up vertically so that any water inside it can drain out. It also might be a good idea if you gave the hose a little shake during the day to make sure any trapped water finds its way out. Another tip: Prior to going to bed, attach the hose to the machine and turn the machine on for 10-15 minutes and let the forced air “blow dry” any moisture that may not have air dried during the day.
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Better Sleep ONLINE Archive
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| Click the links below to view previous issues |
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10 Steps to Better Sleep |
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Can Snoring be Hazardous to Your Health? |
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Drowsy Drivers Create Danger Behind the Wheel |
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Sleep in a Historical Nutshell |
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All of Sleep is a Stage
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Locating Information about Sleep on the Internet
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Lullabies, Sweet Dreams & Your Child's Sleep
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Sleepy Teens Behind the Wheel and in Front of the TV |
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Helping Our Children to "Sleep Like Babies" |
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Sun, Winter and SAD |
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Emerge from the Sleep Fog |
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The ADHD Connection
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For more information on sleep and sleep disorders, check out the National Sleep Foundation's Web Site at www.sleepfoundation.org
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