For many individuals using CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy to manage obstructive sleep apnea, comfort is key to maintaining consistent treatment. A humidifier is one of the most commonly recommended solutions to enhance comfort. By adding moisture to the pressurized air, humidifiers can significantly reduce discomforts like dry mouth, nasal irritation, sinus congestion, and chapped lips. However, it’s essential to understand both the benefits and the proper maintenance of humidifiers to ensure they remain safe and effective.
“A CPAP humidifier can transform your sleep therapy experience, but only when used with care. Cleanliness and the right water aren’t just maintenance—they’re essential steps in protecting your lungs and preserving the effectiveness of your treatment,” says Robert Miller, Apria's Vice President of Sleep Business.
When we breathe naturally, our nose acts as a built-in humidifier—warming and moisturizing the air before it enters our lungs. However, during CPAP therapy, the air is delivered at a higher pressure and speed than our nasal passages can manage. This often leads to dry sinuses, sore throats, runny noses, and sinus headaches—especially in dry climates or during winter months.
Adding a heated humidifier to your CPAP setup helps moisturize the air, alleviating these side effects and making therapy more comfortable and sustainable over time. Properly humidified air can also soothe irritated respiratory passages, supporting overall airway health and reducing the likelihood of discomfort or infection.
The choice between these two types depends on personal needs and environmental factors. Consulting with a healthcare provider or CPAP equipment provider can help determine the most suitable option.
While humidifiers provide comfort, they also create a warm and damp environment—ideal for bacteria, mold, and other pathogens to grow if not properly cleaned and maintained. Respiratory infections can arise from contaminated humidifier chambers, which is why cleanliness is crucial. Since the air from your CPAP machine goes directly into your airways, it’s essential to keep your equipment clean and safe.
To reduce health risks and maintain humidifier performance:
The type of water you use in your humidifier matters more than many realize. Only distilled water should be used in your CPAP humidifier. Here’s why:
Avoid using essential oils or fragrances in your humidifier. While they may seem like a nice touch, these substances can be harmful to inhale over several hours and may damage your CPAP machine.
A humidifier can greatly improve your CPAP experience, making it easier to stick with therapy and get the restful sleep your body needs. But comfort should never come at the cost of safety. By following a strict cleaning routine, using only distilled water, and avoiding additives, you can protect both your health and your equipment.
References
Editorial, Apria. “Apria Direct.” CPAP Humidifier: What It Is, How It Works & Benefits, April 3, 2025. https://www.apriadirect.com/blog/what-is-a-cpap-humidifier-different-types-settings-more/?srsltid=AfmBOoqNRFWGVsY3FxtEPQlSu139T4DffXM58JnK_AFzxdC9-BFvBS7O.
Peters, Brandon. “Is It Necessary to Use a CPAP Humidifier to Treat Sleep Apnea?” Verywell Health, January 9, 2025. https://www.verywellhealth.com/do-you-have-to-use-the-humidifier-with-cpap-3015036.
Yu, Chung-Chieh, Cheng-Ming Luo, Yu-Chih Liu, and Huang-Pin Wu. “The Effects of Heated Humidifier in Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Titration.” Sleep & breathing = Schlaf & Atmung, March 2013. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3575558/.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER: Material in this newsletter is provided for general health education and informational purposes and to provide references to other resources only; it may not apply to you as an individual. While Apria Healthcare believes that the information provided through this communication is accurate and reliable, Apria Healthcare cannot and does not make any such guarantee. It is not intended to be a replacement for professional medical advice, evaluation, diagnosis, services or treatment (collectively, “medical treatment”). Please see your healthcare provider for medical treatment related to you and your specific health condition(s). Never disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical care because of something you have read on or accessed through this website. Reading this newsletter should not be construed to mean that you have a healthcare provider/patient relationship.