If you rely on a CPAP machine for restful sleep, you likely know the importance of keeping it in top shape. But when you run out of distilled water, you might wonder: can purified water do the job safely?
This is an important question, since the water you use can affect your device’s performance and your health. In this article, we’ll explain the difference, offer clear advice, and share helpful tips for CPAP users navigating their water choices.
Related Video
Can Purified Water Be Used in a CPAP Machine?
If you use a CPAP machine to manage sleep apnea, you know how essential every detail is to getting a good night’s sleep—and that includes the type of water you put in the humidifier chamber. The most common question people ask is, “Can purified water be used in a CPAP machine?” Let’s dive into this topic to give you straightforward, expert guidance, so you can rest easy.
The Clear Answer: Can You Use Purified Water in a CPAP Machine?
While you technically can use purified water in your CPAP machine, it is not the best or most recommended option. The gold standard for CPAP humidifiers is distilled water. Distilled water is free from minerals, chemicals, and impurities that might harm your machine or affect your health.
Here’s why:
- Distilled Water: 100% free of minerals and almost all contaminants.
- Purified Water: Cleaner than regular tap water but not always free from minerals and trace impurities.
- Tap or Bottled Water: Contains minerals, chlorine, and other impurities that can accumulate in your device.
In summary: Purified water is better than tap or regular bottled water, but distilled water is the safest and most effective choice for your CPAP machine.
Understanding the Different Types of Water
Not all “clean” water is created equal. Your CPAP machine’s humidifier is sensitive to what you put in it. Let’s break down the common types of water and what they mean for your therapy:
1. Distilled Water
- Steam is used to remove almost all minerals and impurities.
- Leaves behind virtually nothing to deposit inside your humidifier.
- Strongly recommended for all CPAP humidifiers by experts and manufacturers.
2. Purified Water
- Goes through filtration (like reverse osmosis or carbon filtering) to remove contaminants.
- Can still contain trace amounts of minerals or chemicals.
- Safer than tap water, but not mineral-free.
3. Bottled Water
- Quality depends on the source.
- May be filtered or purified, but often still contains minerals.
4. Tap Water
- Contains minerals, chlorine, and microbes.
- Can cause mineral buildup (scaling) and even bacterial growth.
Why Distilled Water Is the Best Choice
CPAP manufacturers recommend distilled water for several reasons:
- Prevents Mineral Buildup: No minerals means no white residue or limescale, which can damage your humidifier and reduce its lifespan.
- Reduces Health Risks: Lower risk of inhaling impurities, microbes, or irritants that may survive purification but are removed in the distillation process.
- Maintains Machine Warranty: Using the wrong type of water (with minerals) can sometimes affect your device warranty if damage occurs.
What Are the Risks of Using Purified Water?
Using purified water in your CPAP machine may seem harmless, but be aware of these potential issues:
- Mineral Deposits: Over time, trace minerals can accumulate in your humidifier, leading to scaling.
- Shorter Equipment Lifespan: Scale and mineral buildup can corrode your device and limit its functionality.
- Potential for Microbial Growth: Purified water is cleaner than tap, but not sterile. Some bacteria and fungi may remain.
If you must use purified water in a pinch, it’s better than tap water, but make it a temporary choice.
What Happens If You Use Tap or Bottled Water?
Many people have used tap or even bottled water when nothing else was available. Here’s what might ensue:
- Scale Formation: Minerals will crystalize and coat your humidifier chamber and tubing.
- Risk of Mold or Bacterial Growth: Unfiltered water may contain microorganisms.
- Hazy or Unpleasant Smell: Your machine might begin to emit an odor over time as impurities accumulate.
Routine use of anything but distilled water can mean more frequent cleaning and possibly earlier replacement of parts.
What If Distilled Water Isn’t Available?
Sometimes you simply can’t get distilled water. In emergencies:
- Use Purified Bottled Water as the next best alternative.
- Avoid Tap or Spring Water if possible, to reduce damage and health risks.
- Clean Your Equipment Thoroughly after using any water other than distilled—to remove any deposits.
- Switch Back ASAP: Return to distilled as soon as you have access again.
Your health and your machine’s lifespan depend on consistent, careful use.
Benefits of Using the Right Water in Your CPAP Machine
Using the correct water isn’t just about following instructions. Here’s what you can expect:
- Longer Life for Your Machine: No mineral scaling or clogging.
- Fewer Cleanings Needed: Less residue means less frequent scrub-downs.
- Better Air Quality: Less risk of inhaling irritants or contaminants.
- No Unpleasant Odors: Prevents musty or chemical smells often caused by water impurities.
Challenges and Common Concerns
Even knowing what’s recommended, users still have questions:
- Can I make my own distilled water at home? It’s possible, but home equipment rarely achieves the purity level of commercial distillation.
- What if I forget and use tap or purified water? Don’t panic. Just clean your humidifier soon and switch back to distilled at your next refill.
- Is boiling water good enough? Boiling removes microbes, but not minerals—so it doesn’t replace distillation.
Best Practices for CPAP Machine Water Use
Here’s how to care for your humidifier and ensure quality therapy:
Daily Habits
- Empty any leftover water every morning.
- Rinse the humidifier chamber with warm, soapy water; let it air dry.
- Use only as much distilled water as you’ll need for the night.
Weekly Maintenance
- Wash the chamber with a vinegar solution (one part vinegar to three parts water) to dissolve any residues.
- Dry thoroughly before reassembling.
Pro Tips
- Store your distilled water in a cool, sealed container to avoid contamination.
- Take travel-sized bottles of distilled water with you on trips.
- Never reuse water from the previous night.
Practical Tips for Finding and Storing Distilled Water
- Where to Get It: Most grocery and drug stores carry distilled water in jugs or bottles.
- Traveling? Buy small bottles or pre-fill containers for hotel stays or flights.
- Storage: Keep your water out of direct sunlight and away from temperature extremes.
In a pinch, small amounts of purified bottled water are acceptable, but always return to distilled when possible.
Summary: The Bottom Line
For the best results and longevity of your CPAP machine, always use distilled water in your humidifier. Purified water is safer than tap but can still harm your machine and isn’t ideal for daily use. Tap and regular bottled water should be avoided when possible. A little extra effort now will save you time, money, and hassle in the long run—plus, you’ll enjoy safer, more comfortable sleep therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use purified water in my CPAP machine every night?
Purified water is cleaner than tap water, but it still contains trace minerals and impurities. Regular use may lead to mineral buildup and possible damage. It’s best reserved for emergencies, with a return to distilled water as soon as possible.
2. What if I accidentally use tap water for one night?
Don’t worry! Using tap water once won’t ruin your machine. Clean your humidifier chamber thoroughly the next day and switch back to distilled water at your next use.
3. Why is distilled water so strongly recommended for CPAP machines?
Distilled water is completely free of minerals and contaminants. This prevents buildup inside your machine and ensures you breathe in only clean, safe moisture.
4. Is it safe to use bottled spring water in my CPAP?
Bottled spring water may contain minerals and other natural compounds, which can accumulate in your humidifier and tubing. It’s not recommended for routine use.
5. How do I clean my CPAP humidifier if I’ve used the wrong type of water?
Empty the chamber and wash it with warm, soapy water. For stubborn deposits, use a vinegar solution (one part vinegar to three parts water), then rinse thoroughly and air dry before the next use.
By choosing the right water—especially distilled—you’re protecting your CPAP machine, supporting your health, and ensuring uninterrupted, comfortable sleep. Always keep a supply of distilled water on hand and follow best practices for a cleaner, longer-lasting device.