Getting used to CPAP therapy isn’t easy. It’s especially challenging to keep all of the equipment- mask, cushions, headgear, tubing- properly assembled. Not to mention keeping it clean.
It’s recommended that you clean your CPAP equipment every morning when you wake up (read more here about how to clean all of your CPAP equipment by hand).
If you don’t keep your equipment clean, it can deteriorate quickly. This will make therapy less comfortable and less effective.
Dirt, sweat and oils build up on your CPAP equipment
Additionally, dirty CPAP equipment is a health hazard. Because the equipment comes in contact with your skin, oils and sweat can build up which can foster bacteria growth.
Moisture can create a breeding ground for bacteria
The heated air that flows from your humidifier water chamber, through the tubing and out of your mask into your airway contains moisture. If your humidifier water chamber and tubing are not thoroughly dried every day, your equipment may start to build up mildew, mold or bacteria.
Keep your equipment clean, fresh and safe
Properly disassembling, washing and drying your CPAP equipment every morning is recommended. However, this can take a lot of time out of your busy morning.
So how can a busy CPAP user keep his/her equipment clean, sanitary and functioning at its best? Other than the daily rigmarole of taking your equipment apart, washing, rinsing, drying and then reassembling, one option is to use an automated CPAP cleaning device, like the SoClean automated CPAP cleaner and sanitizer.
We receive dozens of questions each week from CPAP users about how to best clean and maintain their equipment. Many people are looking for an easier solution. That’s why we’re offering the SoClean systems in our online store
How does the SoClean automated CPAP cleaner and sanitizer work?
This cleaning device sits next to your CPAP and is attached to your humidifier. When you wake up in the morning, rather than detaching your mask assembly, hose and water chamber then carrying them to the bathroom to take them apart, wash them and set them up to dry, you just open the top of the SoClean unit and place your mask (headgear and all) into the unit and close the lid. Keep the tubing connected to your mask and your humidifier.
The SoClean unit will automatically turn on a predetermined time every morning (you set the timer) and cycles for about 2 hours. It doesn’t use any water or messy chemicals and your equipment remains completely dry. The device works by generating activated oxygen that is pumped through your mask, tubing and water chamber. The activated oxygen eradicates any bacteria, mold, virus or fungus it comes in contact with.
When you go to bed that night, just remove your mask assembly (still attached to the tubing and your CPAP), put on your mask and go to sleep- your usual routine.
What is activated oxygen?
Activated oxygen is formed when a third atom of oxygen (O) is added to the molecular oxygen we breathe (O2) forming a new molecule (O3). This new molecule of activated oxygen (also known as ozone) has the amazing ability to destroy organisms such as bacteria and viruses through oxidation. While activated oxygen is very powerful, it also has a very short life cycle. After it’s generated, it reverts back into the oxygen we breathe in about 2 hours.
Activated oxygen is used in hospitals, water purification systems and hotels to sanitize entire rooms. It is also used in homes and hotels to eliminate odors.
Who does the SoClean work best for?
SoClean works best for CPAP users who struggle with the inconvenience of taking apart their equipment every morning to clean it and then putting it back together at night.
It’s also great for CPAP users who are very concerned about infection and bacteria.
Since the unit stays in your bedroom next to your CPAP machine, the standard unit is best for people who generally sleep at home most nights. There is a portable travel unit for people who travel.
What does SoClean cost and is it covered by insurance?
Cleaning and sanitizing equipment is not covered by insurance (learn more about insurance coverage for CPAP and supplies). This is obviously a consideration for many CPAP users.
The standard SoClean 2 CPAP cleaner and sanitizer costs $299. You may need to purchase an adapter to connect your CPAP humidifier to your CPAP depending on the type of machine you use. Adapters cost about $20.
Many people have had success using their HSA (healthcare savings accounts) or FSA (flexible spending account- learn more about HSAs and FSAs).
The unit has a full one-year warranty and an expected lifespan of about 5 years (the same as your CPAP machine). If you purchase the device from us, we’ll handle any warranty exchanges for you- either in person or by mail since we’ve got physical locations across Southern California and web/mail reach across the rest of the US.
If you’re interested in learning more about SoClean or purchasing the device, check out our online store or call us to speak to a customer service representative (877) 775-3377 option 607.
Other posts you may find interesting:
English 
Armenian 
Chinese 
Korean 
Spanish