What is the right CPAP mask for me?

Masks are used to deliver the air from the therapy device to you. A comfortable mask is a key factor in being able to use your treatment daily, so finding a mask that fits you and your lifestyle is important. Most masks have built-in exhalation ports that vent your exhaled air. Talk to your homecare provider about the different masks and headgear available.

Chin straps are optional accessories that can be used with a variety of nasal and nasal pillows masks. They wrap around the top of your head and underneath your chin to keep your mouth from opening at night.

The mask may be leaking into your eyes. Try pulling the mask away from your face and repositioning it. The mask may be too tight so try readjusting your headgear straps.

Your mask may be too tight. If your mask has a forehead arm or adjustment feature, try readjusting that first. Then, if necessary, readjust the headgear straps. You may have the wrong mask size. Ask your homecare provider for a mask fitting. Nasal pillows or a full-face mask may provide a better fit.

This may improve over time. Ask your doctor for a prescription for humidification and if a nasal spray would be a good idea. Talk with your doctor if the condition persists.

You may be sleeping with your mouth open. Try a chin strap. If a chin strap is not helpful, a full-face mask may be considered or you should consult with your doctor about adding heated humidification.

Try sleeping with your head raised or try using a chin strap to prevent mouth breathing. This condition may improve over time.

Check all the connections. If your mask has a forehead arm or adjustment feature, try readjusting that first to correct the leak. If there is no improvement with the above steps, readjust the headgear straps. The mask should be as loose as possible while still creating a seal. A mask that is too tight against the face can cause leaks by creating folds in the material. Talk to your homecare provider about trying another mask size or type if necessary.

Replacing your equipment before it gets worn out is an important part of your sleep therapy routine.

Signs that you should replace your mask or mask parts

Facial oils deteriorate the sealing effect of cushions over time, even with proper hygiene. Don't tighten the headgear when you feel leaks. Over-tightening causes discomfort and pressure points and can lead to additional leaks.

A mask that doesn’t fit can cause you to readjust your mask continually and/or over-tighten the headgear, which reduces how long it can work effectively. Contact your provider to get re-fitted.

Use only mild, soapy water. Don’t use soaps with moisturizers or perfumes.

These can be leakage issues, cushions that lose shape and/or components or cushions that become cracked or torn.

The table below shows how often Medicare will cover replacement parts. Please check with your healthcare insurance provider about what they allow. If a component appears to be worn out, you may want to consider replacing it even if it’s not covered by your insurance. Worn out components can reduce the effectiveness of your sleep therapy.

It’s important to clean your equipment as specified in your product instructions. Poor maintenance can make your sleep therapy ineffective and damage your equipment.
 

Important! Never use any type of alcohol or cleaning solutions on your mask, nasal pillows or tubes. It can damage them. Use only warm, soapy water.
 

Daily cleaning

- Mask: Remove the mask/nasal pillows from the headgear. Clean with warm, soapy water. Rinse. Air dry. 

- Tubing: Wash in warm soapy water, then rinse and air dry. 

- Humidifier:

1. Empty the humidifier and let it air dry.

2. Change the water in the humidifier.

3. Always use distilled water in the humidifier to avoid mineral deposit build-up.
 

Weekly cleaning

- Filter: Clean the gray/black foam filter in your machine with warm soapy water. Rinse. Allow to dry. Reinstall. 

- Headgear: Wash headgear by hand with warm, soapy water. Rinse and let air dry. 

- Machine: Wipe the machine with a soft, damp cloth. 

- Humidifier: Clean the humidifier chamber with white vinegar to prevent mold growth. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with distilled or sterile water before using the humidifier.
 

Monthly cleaning

Filter: Replace the white disposable filter (if applicable).

Replacing your equipment is an important part of being successful with your sleep therapy. There are several things you need to watch for related to replacing your mask:

- Seal deterioration in the mask

- An improperly fitting mask

- A mask damaged by improper cleaning

Check with your homecare provider regarding replacement options through your insurance policy.

Avoid soap with conditioners or moisturizers. Do not use bleach, alcohol or cleaning solutions with alcohol.

Your mask may be too tight. If your mask has a forehead arm or adjustment feature, try changing that first. Then, if necessary, readjust the headgear straps. Tightening of your headgear too much may cause unnecessary discomfort and leaks. Remember, not all leaks have to be corrected, so your mask does not have to be completely air-tight.

Try wearing your mask around your home during the evening as you go about your normal activities. This may help you get more comfortable with the mask. If you continue to feel claustrophobic, your respiratory therapist can help you to find a mask that is more comfortable for you.