Cleaning a ResMed CPAP machine takes about five minutes a day and a bit longer once a week. The basics are simple: warm water and mild soap for most components, with a weekly vinegar soak option for the humidifier tub. No special gadgets required. Here’s exactly what to do, broken down by component and frequency.
What You Need
ResMed recommends only two cleaning agents across all their machines: mild liquid detergent for the mask and headgear, and mild dishwashing liquid for the tubing and humidifier tub. That’s it. For a deeper weekly clean of the humidifier, you can use a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 9 parts water at room temperature.
Do not use bleach, chlorine, aromatic-based solutions, moisturizing or antibacterial soaps, or scented oils on any part of your machine. These can damage components, degrade silicone, and shorten the life of your equipment.
Daily Mask and Cushion Cleaning
Your mask cushion sits against your face all night, collecting skin oils, moisture, and bacteria. Wiping it down each morning keeps the seal fresh and reduces skin irritation. Disconnect the mask from the tubing, then wash the cushion with warm water and a mild liquid detergent. Rinse it thoroughly and place it on a clean hand towel to air dry, or pat it dry with the towel. Avoid direct sunlight, which breaks down silicone over time.
If you use nasal pillows instead of a full mask, the same process applies. Give them a quick wash each morning and lay them on a towel to dry.
Weekly Tubing Cleaning
Once a week, disconnect your air tubing for a thorough wash. If you have a ClimateLineAir heated hose, pinch the cuff at the connection point and gently pull it away from the machine. Only grip the cuff, not the tubing itself, to avoid damaging the internal wiring.
Wash the tubing in warm water with a small amount of dishwashing liquid. For heated tubing, keep the water temperature below 131°F (55°C). Never put it in a dishwasher or washing machine. Rinse well, then hang the tubing so water drains out of both ends. You can also reattach it to your CPAP and run the machine for a few minutes to blow air through and speed up drying. If you have heated tubing, make sure the electronic contacts at each end are completely dry before reconnecting.
Weekly Humidifier Tub Cleaning
Empty your humidifier tub each morning and refill it with fresh distilled water before bed. Once a week, give it a proper cleaning.
For the AirSense 11, hold the tub at the top and bottom, press gently, and pull it away from the device. Let it cool for about 10 minutes if it’s still warm from overnight use. Then open the lid fully and pull it away from the base so you have two separate pieces to clean.
For the AirSense 10, the process is similar: remove the tub, open it, and discard any remaining water. Pull the lid away from the base, then remove the rubber seal from the lid so you can clean all three pieces individually.
Soak the disassembled parts in warm water with mild dishwashing liquid, or use the 1:9 vinegar-to-water solution at room temperature. Use a soft brush to scrub crevices where mineral deposits tend to build up. Rinse everything thoroughly and let the pieces air dry out of direct sunlight. When reassembling the AirSense 10 tub, press the seal firmly back into the lid along all edges before snapping the lid back onto the base.
Headgear and Frame
Wash your headgear straps weekly with warm water and mild detergent. Hand wash only. Lay the headgear flat on a clean towel to dry. The fabric stretches out faster when it’s dirty or oily, so regular washing actually helps it last longer and maintain a good fit.
Filter Replacement
ResMed recommends replacing your machine’s disposable filter every month. These small filters sit at the air intake on the back of the machine and trap dust, pollen, and other particles before they enter the airflow. A clogged or dirty filter restricts airflow and lets contaminants through. Check it regularly and swap it out on a monthly schedule. You don’t wash disposable filters; you simply replace them.
AirMini Travel Machine
The ResMed AirMini uses a waterless humidification system with HumidX or HumidX Plus cartridges instead of a traditional water tub. These cartridges cannot be washed. Replace them every 30 days after opening the packaging, or sooner if you notice damage or blockages from dirt and dust. Check the cartridge daily for any visible buildup, especially when traveling in dusty or humid environments.
Why Ozone and UV Cleaners Are a Problem
Devices marketed as CPAP sanitizers, including ozone generators and UV light cleaners, might seem convenient. But ResMed explicitly excludes ozone damage from their warranty. Since February 2020, any discoloration, cracking, or degradation caused by ozone, activated oxygen, or similar gases will not be covered. The popular SoClean 3+ has not been tested or approved by ResMed for use with their products.
The FDA has also weighed in on this category of devices, noting that CPAP components simply need regular cleaning with soap and water to stay safe. A dirty machine can harbor viruses, bacteria, mold, and allergens that enter your airway while you sleep. But the solution is consistent basic cleaning, not expensive add-on gadgets that may void your warranty.
Quick Reference Schedule
- Every morning: Wash mask cushion or nasal pillows with mild detergent and warm water. Empty and rinse the humidifier tub. Refill with distilled water before bed.
- Every week: Wash tubing, headgear, and mask frame with warm soapy water. Deep clean the humidifier tub with dishwashing liquid or a 1:9 vinegar solution.
- Every month: Replace the disposable air filter. Replace HumidX cartridges if using an AirMini.
All components should air dry away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Reassemble everything only once it’s fully dry, paying special attention to electrical contacts on heated tubing.