Regularly Refresh Your CPAP Mask to Keep Your Sleep Refreshing
Know when to replace your mask's headgear and cushion
CPAP masks are like an article of clothing. When you first put on that shirt, sweater, or jacket that caught your eye, the fit is great, and the color is perfect. With time, the fit changes a bit, and the color fades. CPAP masks get worn every night for hours at a time and they go through similar cycles of wear.
Over time, the newness wears off. Cushions break down, silicone parts rub thin, and headgear loses its elasticity. You notice that the mask that fits so well and went on so easily every night now requires a lot of tightening. You find yourself reaching up to reposition it during the night. The cushion seems to slip out of place more often. The headgear wobbles a bit. Perhaps the frame slides around against your face or the Velcro connections do not quite stay stuck in place.
You might even notice you just are not as well-rested in the mornings!
When any of these things start to crop up, it is time to replace some mask components.
For the sake of your good night's sleep, do not wait till the cushion is torn or the headgear becomes so loose that it does not stay on at all. Tour CPAP mask comes with a manual that includes a maintenance schedule, just like a car.
Following the manufacturer's guidelines for proactively replacing the cushion and headgear is well worth it.
If you are accustomed to using the same cushion or headgear for months at a time, Medicare's recommended replacement schedule for CPAP parts may surprise you!
Medicare's recommended replacement schedule
Nasal pillows: twice a month
Nasal cushion: twice a month
Nasal cradle: twice a month
Full face cushion: monthly
CPAP headgear: every six months
Chin strap: every six months
Nasal mask frame: every 3 months
Full face mask frame: every 3 months
If you are a "replace as needed" person rather than one who wants to focus on hours of use, here are indicators you might overlook that indicates you have reached the “replace as needed” milestone.
Replace your cushion when you notice:
Stiff or cracked spots on the cushion
Tears
Pin sized holes
Discoloration or opaqueness
Replace your headgear when you notice:
A need for frequent adjustment during the night
The mask is not staying in place
The Velcro tabs are coming to lose
The material is frayed
A loss of elasticity
Signs your frame needs replaced:
Cracks
Discoloration or opaque color changes
Doesn't CPAP cleaning help?
Cleaning rituals that follow the device manufacturer's recommendations certainly do extend the life span of a mask's cushion, frame, and headgear. Over time, though, cleaning becomes less effective, especially on plastic and silicone parts. Crevices and pores emerge that trap dirt and oil and impede a good fit.
Other signs it may be time to update your mask parts:
The CPAP machine is alarming more often to indicate a leak
You feel like the machine is blowing more air than it was (indicating it is trying to seal a leak)
You just are not sleeping as well
Your AHI number is rising
You have facial redness or tender spots, but you did not have those problems when the mask was new
Your health is important. Your sleep is a major contributor to your health. Your CPAP use is an investment you are making in yourself. Watch for these signs of cushion or headgear fatigue so that you get consistent benefits from your CPAP therapy.
You will be amazed at the difference new headgear or a fresh cushion make to your rest!
