Here’s your cheat sheet: if the device says distilled water only, don’t be a rebel. Use distilled. It’s cheap, available at any grocery store, and will save you from scrubbing scale out of your CPAP chamber while cursing your past self. If the manual is vague, purified water is probably fine, but you’re still gambling.
Think of it this way: distilled water is the overachieving valedictorian of H2O. Purified water is the cool, slightly messy friend who’s fun at parties. One will keep your medical device alive; the other might make it cry. Choose wisely, and maybe buy both—you’ll feel very powerful.
And if you’re really desperate, you can distill your own water at home. Boil it, catch the steam with a jar, and pretend you’re a mad scientist. Just don’t use the kettle you drink tea from—nobody wants Earl Grey infused with your CPAP’s revenge.
Now go forth, hydrate wisely, and may your nostrils stay moisture-welcomed. I’ll be over here drinking tap water from a hose, because I regret nothing.
