← Return to Use and cleaning CPAP post transplant (BMT)

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@loribmt

After a little more research and picking the brain of one of fellow mentors, @johnbishop, who has first hand knowledge of CPAP machines, I found that there are some very effective CPAP cleaners on the market that will sanitize the machines/parts with a high degree of efficacy in killing and preventing growth of bacteria.
One product called SoClean seems to be the front runner in the business.
https://www.soclean.com/soclean3/product-category/sale
It uses ultraviolet light to kill the bacteria on all surfaces, assuring clean and germ free breathing. This is the same process used at Mayo with their sanitizing Robot who comes into rooms after a patient is discharged. It disinfects the entire room with the ultraviolet light.
There is also a conversation on the Connect forum you might find of interest. -- What is your CPAP Cleaning Routine?: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/cpap-cleaning-routine/

When your husband has his pre-transplant educational classes he will (you both will, as his caregiver) have a lot of information tossed your way for avoiding infections.
Cleveland Clinic, another reputable transplant clinic, has really good information online on prevention-post transplant. While it doesn’t specifically cover CPAP machines it gives a comprehensive guide to staying safe, what to avoid such as room humidifiers, and common things we might overlook. Where I stayed for my 100+ days, the first thing I ask housekeeping for was a new shower curtain liner in my bathroom. They were great in accommodating my request.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4511-bone-marrow-transplant-preventing-infections
Have you looked into one of the disinfecting machines for your husbands CPAP?

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Replies to "After a little more research and picking the brain of one of fellow mentors, @johnbishop, who..."

We did try one ( I think it was SoClean) a few years ago but he didn't like it; I don't remember why. The links you suggest are very helpful. Thank you! I'll check with nurse to see if vinegar/soap &distilled water will be sufficient.

Yay Lori. Post pancreas transplant Cheryl weighing in here. I’ve used CPAP for years. Mine recommended regularly cleaning all the parts with hot water and dish soap. Rubbing alcohol was not recommended because it would break down the plastic parts. Then So Clean came along and my husband and I started using that. It is a separate machine to put your gear into clean daily. There was some issue with it and a small adapter piece of equipment was designed to connect the hose to before putting the gear in the So Clean for daily cleaning. (I has to be disconnected from that adapter before reattaching it to the CPAP before use). So Clean also makes disinfecting wipes (much like pop up baby wipes) that can be used to wipe down your gear. We have found that this stuff has been very helpful in keeping our equipment clean and dry ready to use as needed.