Continuous positive airway pressure machine, or CPAP, is the best possible treatment for sleep apnea. Each CPAP machine comes with an integrated heated humidifier. So, we decided to focus on this and share with you everything there is to know about the CPAP humidifier, including how to use it, what kind of water to use for it, and other common questions.

Why Use a CPAP Humidifier?

Using a CPAP machine is more tolerable and comfortable when using the heated humidifier. The humidifier reduces nasal congestion and dry mouth. So, how often will you need it depends on your personal preference and local climate. You might also be able to set the temperature and level of humidity that is delivered.

If you use standard tubing, there might be an issue with condensation within the tubes, which is even worse when the room is cool. The heated tubing lowers the risk of this happening when turning up the humidity. So, with more humidity, there will be less dryness and a reduced risk of inflammation, nasal congestion, nosebleeds, and infections. You will need to turn up the humidity so that you need to refill the water reservoir at least every few nights.  

Can You Use Tap Water With CPAP?

The quality and the safety of the water supply are crucial to consider when deciding whether to use distilled water in the humidifier. Boiling the water will kill microbes, but it won’t remove minerals or chemical contaminants, which can make the water hard. So, most manufacturers recommend using distilled water in your CPAP which makes bottled water the safest option. Hence, it’s also best to use distilled water in the CPAP humidifier, which will prolong the life of the water tube and reduce mineral deposits.

What Water to Use When Traveling

When you are travelling and you use a CPAP machine to treat your sleep apnea, it’s best to use distilled water in the humidifier and minimize your exposure to potentially harmful substances. You can get distilled water in any grocery store, but make sure to read the labels as there is a difference between regular bottled and filtered water.

Things to Avoid

Remember that your lungs are exposed to the water placed in the humidifier. So, you should definitely clean it regularly. Moreover, you shouldn’t put anything in the tank which might be harmful to breathe in, such as cologne, scented oils, and perfumes. The use of antibacterial and moisturizing soaps is discouraged.

In a nutshell, using the CPAP humidifier comes with plenty of benefits and you should use it regularly. Remember to always use distilled water to avoid any potential for undesirable exposures and effects. In cases you don’t have access to safe water, it’s better to use CPAP without the humidifier.