[anneliz]

I still prefer the steredent leaves all parts spotless, I have reduced the soak time to 15mins but it still works a treat

[Armageddon]

Wish I had the time to do all this cleaning that seems to be required but the truth is I wash the mask and tube once a week in good old fairy liquid, rinse in warm water and air dry. Seems to work fine.

As yet I don't have problems with spots, rashes or anything else and the hospital have informed me that I will get two masks a year.

[Berneta]

I think every one is right--its seems there are endles instructions on how to care for these precious items. My instructions for the Nose Pillow and head straps are this:
Use distilled water only in the humidifer tank. Everyday wash the Humidifier Tank and Nose Pillows and hose in Mild Soapy warm water (I use baby shampoo) I bought a pastic bucket just for the washing. Take apart any pieces that are connected and wash each piece well. Rise 3 times in running warm tap water and air dry. The head straps should be washed once a week (more often if you need to) Hang to dry. Never use the dishwasher or water hotter than your hands can stand. Once a week soak all parts in Warm 1/2 gal of water to which is added 1/2 cup vinegar for 1/2 hour. Rinse til the vinegar smell is gone, and hang to dry. Use a thin long soft brush on parts that may have hard water residue buildup. Clean the CPAP and Humidifier with a damp paper towel. NEVER use harsh chemicals on any plastic parts as they may cause damage. The instuctions say "Air Dry"--but I can't do that. I have cats and anything air dried could get cat hair or dander on it. I dry everything (but the head straps) with a roll of paper towels that I keep in my case at all times, to keep it from away from the open air. I suppose air drying is dependant on how clean your air might be. So far that has worked for me. I think the vinegar clears hard water deposits and kills some germs. Different strokes for different folks! Berneta