CPAP Masks FAQs

Almost all CPAP masks are designed with a universal fit so that they are compatible with virtually any CPAP machine. When choosing a CPAP mask consider comfort, size, and the fit before making your selection. There are three main types of CPAP masks; Nasal, Nasal Pillows and Full-Face.

Having a leak in your mask can be very annoying. It can cause air to blow into your eyes or face and cause irritation. One reason there might be a leak could be a mask with an improper fitting which can leave space between your mask and your face. This could be due to too loose or excessive tightening of the mask, movement during sleep, or just the way your masks sits on your pillow. To fix this pull the mask away from your face then reseat the mask again or adjust the headgear. Accessories such as CPAP pillows, mask liners or nasal gel pads are also great options to achieve a good seal.

When you use your CPAP machine with the humidifier it heats the air that flows through the hose toward the mask. As the air flows through the temperature drops and the air cools down enough to condense into water droplets within the tubing and mask. To avoid this you can wrap your hose in a tubing insulator or switch to a heated- hose. Ensure room temperature is as close to 20º C as possible and there isn’t a fan blowing in the direction of the CPAP, or an open windows close to the machine.

If you are using your CPAP with a humidifier and still experiencing dry mouth it may be due to a mask leak during the night. Try readjusting your mask to see if it alleviates the symptoms of a dry mouth. If you use a nasal mask try switching to a full-face mask as you might be opening and breathing through, your mouth during the night. Also keep your humidity levels as high as you can comfortably tolerate.

If you are a new CPAP user or have recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you may have some anxiety when it comes to sleeping with a mask or initiating therapy. CPAP masks are created with ventilation to avoid buildup of carbon dioxide, so you will not suffocate when using a CPAP machine. To get the maximum benefit out of CPAP therapy start to slowly build a habit of using the machine on a nightly basis. Try wearing the mask during the day while watching television or reading so that you can practise breathing with the mask and get used to the feel of it against your face with distraction. Most importantly you need to be patient and have a positive attitude towards therapy.

You should clean the cushion of your mask on a daily basis upon waking with either CPAP wipes or warm water and soap. It is important to note that only wipes designed for cleaning CPAP masks should be used as alcohol or moisturizer-based wipes can damage your cushion. The headgear, hose and water chamber should be cleaned once a week; soak in warm water and mild soap for 10-15 minutes and then rinse and air-dry. Rinse the filter once a month and air-dry before inserting it back into the machine. Never place scents or oils in your CPAP chamber- distilled water only.

Despite cleaning your mask/hose regularly there can still be a buildup of bacteria present in your mask and prolonged use of it can cause skin irritation/infection and respiratory illnesses. Even when just exposed to air, the silicone will break down and cause mask degradation over time. It is important to replace your mask/hose once every 6 months to ensure you get the most benefit out of your CPAP therapy. You should also replace the filter on your CPAP once every 3 months to increase the longevity of your machine. Replacing these parts will also ensure maintenance of optimum therapy.

If you are experiencing skin irritation it may be because your mask is either too tight or too loose on your face. Try readjusting for a better fit. Another reason may be that your mask is now old and worn out so you should look into replacing either the cushion or if possible, the complete mask. Old masks may be harbouring high bacteria levels. You can also try using mask liners which can act as a barrier between the mask and your skin.