The SoClean CPAP sanitizing unit definitely falls under the category of “What will they think of next?”
  I recently had a chance to try out the interesting device from Massachusetts-based Better Rest Solutions. In a nutshell, you put your mask (with the hose and straps still attached) in a black box a bit larger than a toaster, set the timer and bacteria and mold are blasted away in a few minutes.
  Perhaps that is oversimplifying things. The process is very scientific and, dare I say, ingenious. Inventor Timothy Leyva, who suffers from sleep apnea, created a device that generates “activated oxygen” and pumps it through the CPAP reservoir, hose and mask.
  The SoClean user guide reports activated oxygen is a natural process that kills bacteria, mold and viruses upon contact.
  The machine only needs to run for about five minutes but the items should be left inside for about 2 hours to complete the process.
  “The SoClean allows for daily, hands-free sanitizing of CPAP machines,” said Leyva, in a press release. “Having a freshly-sanitized CPAP machine will prevent bacteria build-up helping to avoid respiratory infections and make for a significantly better user experience.”
  Leyva added, “Knowing that the CPAP is always clean, ready, and safe to use increases the likelihood that sleep apnea sufferers will wear it every night.”
  It is definitely much less labor-intensive than hand-washing everything. In fact, the timer can be set just once for the SoClean to run at the same time each day. Just drop the mask in, close the lid and be on your way.
  The best part is that the cleaning occurs without having to disassemble everything. Trust me, us CPAP users hate that. (So much so that it leads to putting off much needed cleanings). The device hooks into the CPAP unit so the reservoir is being cleaned at the same time as the mask via the hose.
  SoClean is touted as an environmentally-safe means of avoiding bacteria build-up that occurs over time even with regular soap and water cleanings.
  There is a distinct scent that your mask has when it emerges from SoClean. The company describes it as a very mild bleach smell (similar to after a thunderstorm) that can be dissipated by blowing air through the mask for about 15 seconds prior to use.
  This worked for the most part. The scent takes some getting used to but the mask (and the air I’m breathing through it) does feel clean. The convenience is certainly welcome for this CPAP user who has a busy life like everyone else.
  SoClean is a bit intimidating when it arrives but I was able to figure it out via the manual and instructional videos online. Once you are in the groove of using it, it couldn’t be more simple.
  Regular readers of this blog know I’m a steadfast advocate of CPAP use and anything that will increase its effectiveness and the chances of people sticking with it. SoClean falls into this category.
  Visit betterrestsolutions.com for much more information.
  Also click here to see an effective graphic from the company about the impact of sleep apnea.