How to Clean Your ResMed AirSense 11
A simple weekly routine keeps your AirSense 11 hygienic, protects the warranty, and supports comfortable therapy. Here's exactly what to clean, and how.
In this guide
Preparation
Unplug the device
Always unplug the AirSense 11 before cleaning, and make sure every part is fully dry before plugging it back in.
Remove the humidifier
If you've just finished a session, let the humidifier tub cool before detaching it from the AirSense 11.
Empty the water chamber
Open the humidifier tub and discard any water left inside.
Disconnect the tubing
Gently detach the hose from the back of the device, then disconnect it from the mask.
Remove the outlet connector
Release the connector on the inside of the AirSense 11 and remove it from the device.
Need a replacement tube?
ResMed AirSense 11 ClimateLineAir Heated Tube →Cleaning the tubing and outlet connector
Wash the humidifier tub, air tubing and outlet connector in warm water with a small amount of mild, fragrance-free liquid soap.
Water temperature matters: use warm water, not hot — it should never exceed 65°C / 149°F, as heat can damage the tubing and seals.
Never clean the power cord with water or any other liquid.
Replacement power cord
ResMed AirSense 11 AC Power Supply Cord →Rinsing and drying
Rinse each part thoroughly, then let everything air-dry fully, away from direct sunlight or direct heat, before reassembling.
When the humidifier, tubing and outlet connector are completely dry, reattach them to the main unit. Align the outlet connector with the seal pointing left and the clip pointing forward — you'll feel it click into place. Connect the tubing firmly to the connector once it's back on the device.
Replacement water chamber
AirSense 11 Water Chamber (Humidifier) →Refilling the humidifier
Fill the humidifier tub with distilled water at room temperature, up to the maximum fill line, then close it and reinsert it into the device. Use distilled rather than tap water — mineral content in tap water builds up in the chamber over time and can affect performance.
For weekly deep-cleaning of the humidifier tub (to clear mineral buildup), a diluted white vinegar solution — for example, one part vinegar to several parts water, soaked and rinsed thoroughly afterwards — is a widely used option. This is specifically for the water chamber, not for the device housing.
Cleaning the device exterior
Wipe the outside of the AirSense 11 with a dry or barely damp cloth, or a CPAP wipe. Never expose the device itself — the housing, ports or electronics — to water or other liquids.
Keep liquids away from the unit itself. Vinegar or soap solutions are for the humidifier tub, tubing and outlet connector — not for wiping down the device housing.
While you're at it, inspect the tubing and humidifier tub regularly for cracks or surface damage, and replace them if you spot any.
Replacing the filter
Check the air filter regularly and replace it sooner than schedule if you notice holes, blockages or visible discolouration. ResMed's manual specifies replacement at least every six months, but it's worth a quick visual check monthly, especially during high-pollen periods — replace it sooner if it looks dirty.
Replacing it is simple: remove the cover on the back of the device, take out the old filter, place a new one in the designated slot, and refit the cover.
Please note: the AirSense 11 filter is not washable or reusable — always replace it rather than trying to clean it.
Replacement filters
ResMed AirSense 11 CPAP Filters →Putting it back together
Once every part is fully dry, reassemble the machine in the reverse order you took it apart, and only plug the AirSense 11 back into power once everything is reconnected. Repeat this routine weekly to keep the air you breathe clean and reduce the chance of picking up an infection from your equipment.
Using a dedicated CPAP cleaner
If you'd rather not hand-wash every part, UV-C sanitisers like the 3B Lumin CPAP Cleaner can help. The Lumin's drawer is sized for your mask, the humidifier water chamber, and other small accessories — not the AirSense 11 device itself, which should always be cleaned as described above rather than placed inside a sanitiser.
Place the mask and water chamber in the drawer, close it, and the Lumin uses UV-C light to reduce bacteria, viruses and mould on those surfaces in about five minutes, with no ozone or chemicals involved.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use vinegar to clean the AirSense 11?
Diluted vinegar works well for the humidifier tub's weekly deep clean, to clear mineral buildup. It shouldn't be used on the device housing itself — wipe that with a dry or barely damp cloth only.
Can I put the whole AirSense 11 in a UV sanitiser like the Lumin?
No. Devices like the Lumin are designed for masks, water chambers and small accessories that fit in the drawer — not for the CPAP unit itself, which contains electronics and should be cleaned by hand as described in this guide.
How often should I replace the filter?
ResMed's manual specifies at least every six months, but it's worth checking monthly and replacing sooner if the filter looks dirty or you notice holes or blockages — especially during high-pollen seasons.
Can I wash the air filter and reuse it?
No — the AirSense 11 filter is disposable. It isn't washable or reusable, so replace it rather than trying to clean it.
Why distilled water in the humidifier?
Tap water contains minerals that build up in the water chamber over time, which can affect performance. Distilled water at room temperature, filled to the maximum line, is the safer choice.
Please note: this guide is for general information and isn't medical advice. Always follow the cleaning instructions in your AirSense 11 user manual, and get in touch with our team via chat if you have questions about maintaining your specific setup.
