CPAP machines often include a heated humidifier to add moisture to the pressurized air delivered to the user. This humidification prevents common side effects of therapy, such as nasal dryness, irritation, and congestion. When traveling, the quality of the water used in the humidifier chamber is the most important consideration. Maintaining the correct water standard is fundamental for both the functional longevity of the device and the continued safety of the therapy.
Why Distilled Water is Essential for CPAP Humidifiers
Distilled water is the gold standard for CPAP humidifiers because it is purified through boiling and condensation. This process effectively removes all dissolved solids, including minerals, salts, and trace elements. Standard tap water and most bottled water contain various minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron, which contribute to water hardness.
When mineral-rich water is heated, the water evaporates, but the minerals remain and accumulate on the heating plate and chamber surfaces. This process is known as scaling or mineral deposition. Over time, this buildup creates a crusty residue that reduces the efficiency of the heating element, potentially leading to device damage and premature component failure.
Beyond mechanical damage, mineral deposits provide a rough surface for microorganisms to colonize. This environment, combined with the machine’s warmth and moisture, can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Inhaling air that passes over a contaminated reservoir presents a potential health risk. The purity of distilled water eliminates this source of mineral buildup and microbial contamination, helping maintain a clean and effective therapy environment.
Acceptable Temporary Water Substitutes
Finding distilled water can be challenging when traveling, but temporary alternatives can be used in short-term situations to ensure therapy continues. The primary concern is minimizing mineral content and eliminating pathogens. Never use standard spring or mineral water, as these are high in dissolved solids that cause rapid scaling.
The best temporary substitute is tap water that has been thoroughly boiled and cooled. Boiling the water for at least one minute kills most bacteria and microorganisms present. However, boiling does not remove the dissolved minerals that cause scaling.
Boiled water should be limited to a few nights at most. Another option is commercially available purified bottled water, often labeled as purified or demineralized. This water has undergone processes like reverse osmosis and filtration, which significantly reduce mineral content, making it a safer short-term choice than unboiled tap water. Regardless of the substitute used, the chamber must be emptied and thoroughly cleaned once distilled water is available to prevent lasting mineral residue.
Managing Your CPAP Water Supply During Travel
Travel Logistics and TSA
Maintaining a water supply for your CPAP during travel requires planning, especially for extended trips or international destinations. For road travel, packing a small, pre-sealed container of distilled water can provide a few nights of supply, allowing time to locate a local source. When flying, the CPAP machine is considered a medical device and should be carried on the plane in its own separate bag.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows medically necessary liquids, including distilled water, in quantities larger than the standard 3.4-ounce limit in carry-on luggage. You must declare this water to the security officer and separate it from other liquids for inspection, as it is exempt from typical liquid restrictions. For very short trips, an alternative is running the humidifier chamber dry; the CPAP will still deliver pressurized air, though it may result in some nasal dryness.
Sourcing Water Internationally
When traveling abroad, locating distilled water often involves visiting pharmacies or large grocery stores. The product may be labeled differently, such as eau distillée in French or agua destilada in Spanish. If you are having difficulty locating a supply, asking a hotel concierge or a local pharmacy is often the most direct way to find the product. Note that it may sometimes be located in the automotive or laundry aisle for use in irons.