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Madalot wrote: I AM concerned, however, about how many people are told NOT to use dishwashing soap. I may try baby shampoo one time instead and see if that gives us the same results without any possible harm/damage to the silicone.

My DME said to buy cheap dishwashing soap, the kind that doesn't cut grease very well. Otherwise, it will break down the silicone. If someone has a subscription to Consumer Reports, you could tell us which soap came in last place and then we could all buy that one.

How much baking soda? How long do you let it boil?

I found Chunky Frog's recipe:

Recipe for boiling silicone:
I usually wash with unscented mild soap/detergent;
and soak in 50/50 white vinegar and water first for a half hour; then boil.
2 qts (about, whatever) filtered or distilled water
1 or 2 tsp Baking soda
pot with basket or towel in the bottom (keep silicone off bottom of pot--where it may be too hot)
Bring to boil; lower heat to gentle boil for 10-20 minutes, watching pot carefully.
Rinse, air dry.

Chuck Connors wrote:I started using the Pantene Fine Hair Shampoo a couple of days ago to clean the silicone cushion and have had good results. While 2 days doesn't qualify as a long term test, I'm pleased with the much lower leak rate I've been getting. Thanks for the idea, MaxDarkside. -Chuck-

You are most welcome, Chuck. Clean and sparkly !!

Ive had mine for a year and a half. I simply wash it gently with lukewarm warm and airdry. Making sure not to twist or tear
it.

Wait... you're supposed to clean and replace those things?

Guest wrote:Why is aloe a problem?

It leaves a film and once it builds up, your mask will start to leak.

Everyone should go to the manufacter's website. They normal offer mask cleaning tips for their masks. Of course.... who listens to them!!!????

Sheriff

Remember, it is not in the DME's best interest to have your silicone last a loooong time!
Xena: Everclear! alcohol! I don't think he is kidding.
He's also been known to put a teaspoonful of the really good stuff in his humidifier water.
Aromatherapy for rednecks?

jen4700 wrote:I found Chunky Frog's recipe:

Recipe for boiling silicone:
I usually wash with unscented mild soap/detergent;
and soak in 50/50 white vinegar and water first for a half hour; then boil.
2 qts (about, whatever) filtered or distilled water
1 or 2 tsp Baking soda
pot with basket or towel in the bottom (keep silicone off bottom of pot--where it may be too hot)
Bring to boil; lower heat to gentle boil for 10-20 minutes, watching pot carefully.
Rinse, air dry.

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Didn't you forget the salt & pepper? Cheap Morton's or more expensive Kosher?

chunkyfrog wrote:Remember, it is not in the DME's best interest to have your silicone last a loooong time!
Xena: Everclear! alcohol! I don't think he is kidding.
He's also been known to put a teaspoonful of the really good stuff in his humidifier water.
Aromatherapy for rednecks?

OMG chunky - seriously??? I bet he sleeps well

xena