Caring for your BiPAP machine for SMA

Last updated May 21, 2025, by Susie Strachan
Fact-checked by Patrícia Silva, PhD

A bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machine can be an important part of supporting your breathing when you have spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), but making sure it keeps working well requires regular care.

Because sleep can be easily disrupted by breathing problems from SMA, a well-maintained BiPAP can make a difference in how you feel.

Proper maintenance is key, not just for ensuring the machine continues to run smoothly but also for protecting your lungs.

Cleaning your BiPAP

Regular cleaning of your BiPAP helps prevent the buildup of body oils, sweat, and dust. Proper cleaning also avoids the growth of mold and bacteria in your device. All these can affect the machine’s overall functioning, mask fit, and your health.

Pathogens especially can be blown into your lungs, increasing your risk of developing respiratory infections such as pneumonia.

Daily care

• Once a day, wipe down your mask with mild soap and water.
• Empty and air dry the water tank after each use.

Weekly care

• Clean the mask, tubing, water tank, and headgear with warm, soapy water. Rinse it well. Let dry completely before reassembling.
• Check the filter, and replace or clean if needed.

Monthly care

• Inspect the mask and tubing for wear and tear and leaks.
• Check and replace the filter if needed.

Every three to six months, replace the mask, tubing, and any headgear.

Additional BiPAP tips

In addition to following a regular cleaning routine, there are other ways to keep your BiPAP machine operating at its best.

Avoid cleaning products

Do not use strong chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaning products on your BiPAP mask, tubing, or water tank. They can damage the components, affect mask fit, and leave residues that could worsen your breathing.

Keep dry

Moisture in the tubing or mask can encourage the growth of mold and bacteria that can lead to respiratory infections.

Always make sure all parts are completely dry before reassembling.

Listen for noises

Unusual or excessive noises can be your machine’s way of letting you know there may be an issue, such as with the motor. Get your machine checked as soon as possible.

Common BiPAP issues

While there are many reasons a BiPAP machine may malfunction, these are some of the more common ones.

Air pressure

Feeling more fatigue than usual or a change in your breathing could be related to your BiPAP.

Air pressure that is set too high can make it more difficult to exhale when using the machine. If the pressure is too low, you might not be getting enough air.

Talk to your SMA care team about how often you should have air pressure settings checked and whenever you are feeling more fatigued than usual or notice a change in your breathing.

Tubing

Twisted or blocked tubing can affect the BiPAP’s airflow. Before using tubing for the first time, examine it for kinks and blockages. Then check it regularly for wear and tear.

Whenever you notice any issues with the tubing, replace it.

Mask fit

When your mask doesn’t fit correctly, air can leak out, reducing its effectiveness. It can also rub and irritate your skin.

Finding a mask that fits properly and stays in place throughout the night can be hard. You may need to experiment with different styles of masks. Ask your SMA care team to help you find a mask that best suits your needs.

What else to know about your machine

Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning, maintenance, and troubleshooting your BiPAP machine.

Periodically, check that the battery is fully charged and working properly. If there are signs of battery wear, like reduced run time or power failure, replace it before it stops working completely. It’s always a good idea to have a backup battery.

SMA News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.