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CPAPMasks:Types,Cleaning,

andMaintenance

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Table of Contents

1. Cover Page

2. Table of Contents

3. CPAP Masks: Nasal Mask, Nasal Pillow, and Full

Face CPAP.com Blog

4. Best CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers: Nasal

Pillows and Nasal Mask CPAP.com Blog

5. Best CPAP Mask for Mouth Breathing: Full Face

Mask CPAP.com Blog

6. How Often Should I Change My CPAP Mask?

(Wear, Leaks, and Cleaning) CPAP.com Blog

7. Cleaning My CPAP Mask: Tips, Cleaners, and

Products CPAP.com Blog

8. Comparing the Best CPAP Masks of 2018

CPAP.com Blog

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CPAP Therapy Tips

CPAP Masks: Nasal Mask, Nasal Pillow, andFull FaceFor some people, the thought of beginning CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure)

therapy with CPAP masks is welcoming after years of dealing with sleep apnea, poor

sleep, and exhaustion. For others, however, it can take time and patience trying to adjust

to CPAP and �nding the right mask for the job.

Different Types of CPAP Masks

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Headgear and masks come in many sizes and styles to treat your sleep apnea comfortably.

Since everyone has their own preferences, needs, sleep position preferences, and face

shapes, traditional nasal CPAP masks might not cut it for them. You may require a

different mask style and you should experiment until you �nd the one that works best for

you.

Let’s explore the different types of CPAP masks: Nasal Mask, Nasal Pillow, and Full Face.

What is a Nasal Mask?A nasal mask, also referred to as an oronasal mask, is worn over your nose only. It’s shaped

like a rounded, triangular dome and is meant to �t the contours of most people’s face

comfortably. These masks come in many sizes and shapes, making them a great choice

since there’s one that can �t almost every user.

The nasal mask pushes pressurized air into the space of your mask through a tube. You’re

meant to inhale the air through your nose only, making it the perfect solution for

individuals who breathe naturally through their nose and require higher pressures.

With this mask type, the pressure feels similar to breathing regular air since it delivers

pressure less directly into the mask. Individuals who prefer to sleep on their side or toss

and turn can use a nasal mask with con�dence. Those with sinus or nasal problems,

however, like allergies or head colds, might �nd this mask type uncomfortable when they

have one of these conditions present.

Pros of Nasal MasksThere are several advantages of using this type of masks, including:

ComfortableMost Natural FeelingLess surface area to seal than with a full face maskNatural and indirect air�owNumerous styles to cater to just about any type of facial structure and featureWorks better for higher pressure settings than nasal pillowsIdeal if you sleep on your side or move around in your sleep

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Cons of Nasal Masks There are some downsides to these types of masks. They’re not ideal for people who are

mouth breathers unless they use them with a chin-strap to hold their mouth and jaw

closed. They can cause soreness on the bridge of the nose or forehead.

They’re also not ideal if you have blocked sinuses since it can hinder the delivery of the

pressure or if you have a medical condition like a collapsed or narrowed nasal valve, a

deviated septum or enlarged turbinates.

Shop for a Nasal CPAP Mask – by price, top selling, rating and more.

What is a Nasal Pillows CPAP Mask?Nasal pillow CPAP masks, also referred to as nasal cushions, are a smaller sized CPAP

mask. It’s inserted at the outer edge of your nostrils instead of over your nose and rests

above your upper lip.

The masks two cushions or pillows seal to your nose, delivering pressure in a more direct

manner than do the nasal CPAP masks.

Nasal pillows come with less obtrusive headgear, are minimal in design and have a smaller

overall pro�le, allowing for more line of sight when you wear them. This is ideal for

individuals who:

Wear glassesReadWatch TV before bedtime

Similar to nasal masks, the nasal pillows only work when you breathe through your nose.

There’s less chance air will leak from nasal pillows because of the seal’s direct nature.

Patients who move around at night while sleeping typically do well with a nasal pillow

CPAP mask.

Pros of Nasal Pillow CPAP MasksThere are many pros to these masks, including:

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Great for stomach or side sleepersMaintains a good sealIdeal for individuals with claustrophobia secondary to having an object on their faceProvides more vision than traditional nasal CPAP masks or full face masksPatients can wear glasses with these masks since they don’t cover the bridge of their noseThey direct air into your nasal passages, thereby reducing air leakageThey work great for individuals with a mustache or beard

Cons of Nasal Pillow MasksSome downsides are:

Can cause soreness of the naresNot well-tolerated for people with high CPAP pressuresDirect air pressure may cause increased incidences of nosebleeds or nasal dryness in some peopleNot ideal for those who aren’t used to breathing from their nose

Shop for a Nasal Pillow Mask – by price, top selling, rating and more.

What is a Full Face CPAP Mask?Full face CPAP masks �t a larger space from underneath your lower lip to the top of the

bridge of your nose, creating a seal over both your mouth and nose. They typically include

supportive pieces you �t to your cheeks and forehead to ensure a proper seal.

Although it’s bigger than the other two mask types, some individuals �nd it comfortable

since it lets them breathe through their mouth without reducing pressure delivery. This

may even reduce the feeling of claustrophobia.

Patients suffering from dry mouth tend to do well with these masks since the humidi�ed

air keeps all their nasal and oral passages moist. Individuals requiring a greater pressure

setting often do the best with full face masks.

Pros of Full Face CPAP MasksSome advantages of these types of masks are:

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Work well for individuals who have mouth leaks despite trying nasal pillows or a nasal maskIdeal for those with a high arched soft palate or deviated nasal septumPerfect for mouth breathersIdeal for those with frequent allergies or congestions from cold symptomsGood for people with claustrophobia since they only touch their face on the outside as opposed tonasal pillows or nasal CPAP masks that touch your upper lip and bridge of your nose or �t directlyinto your nostrilsWork great for high CPAP pressure settings due to the wider mask surface area making thepressure more tolerable and less direct to the patientIdeal for individuals who sleep on their back

Cons of Full Face CPAP MasksSome downsides of these masks include:

Harder to seal because of the larger surfaceLack of laminar �ow calls for higher CPAP pressures and could make claustrophobia worseAir leakage from top of the mask causes dry, irritated eyes in some peopleThe bulk of the mask makes it harder for patients to sleep on their stomach or sideHard for individuals to read, watch TV or wear glasses

Shop for a Full Face Mask – by price, top selling, rating and more.

Takeaways on Choosing a CPAP Mask TypeThe mask used is a big reason why some individuals may not do well with CPAP therapy

initially. Their mask could be too small or too big, it might not seal completely or it might

be designed or made with materials that aren’t comfortable.

To ensure you’re able to maintain your CPAP therapy without interruption, it’s important

you experiment with various CPAP masks types so you’ll �nd the perfect one that works

for you. You may have to perform some trial and error to �nd the CPAP mask that works

best for you.

When you have the right mask, it’s a lot easier to stick to your therapy feel more energized

and alert after having a good night’s sleep. By �nding the right mask for your individual

needs, you’re that much closer to �nding success with your CPAP therapy.

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Have more questions about CPAP masks? Take a look at our guide on “Overcoming the

Confusion Different Types of CPAP Masks” for more information. And if you’ve recently

been diagnosed with Sleep Apnea and just beginning to learn the ins and outs of CPAP

therapy, read our blog which provides extensive information to help you manage your

condition.

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CPAP Therapy Tips

Best CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers: NasalPillows and Nasal MaskSleep disorders are a common health issue in the U.S., including sleep apnea.

Approximately, 22 million people in the U.S. are struggling with sleep apnea today and 80

percent of them have moderate to severe untreated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA),

according to the American Sleep Apnea Association.

The position you sleep in has a huge in�uence on the quality of your sleep. Being

comfortable matters since when you’re not comfortable, you don’t sleep well.

If you’re currently receiving continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, �nding

the best CPAP mask is important — especially if you’re a side sleeper.

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The Challenges with CPAP Therapy and Side SleepingSide sleeping is often suggested since it can help to alleviate insomnia and provide

digestive relief for conditions such as gastroesophageal re�ux disease (GERD). Using

CPAP therapy to treat sleep apnea is a huge step towards preventing chronic health issues

that can result from untreated sleep breathing disorders.

But, one drawback of CPAP therapy you could encounter is not being able to �nd a

comfortable sleeping position while you wear a mask, especially a full face mask. The bulk

of a full face mask, for instance, makes it dif�cult for patients who tend to sleep on their

side because of the chances of it becoming displaced while in these positions.

Side sleepers need a mask that will stay on even when it presses up against a pillow. A

�exible mask works well. A mask that features a cloth surface where the mask and face

meet and soft-touch buckles is a good option too. One that �ts under your nose instead of

over it can help make side sleeping more comfortable as well.

What’s the best CPAP mask for side sleepers? People who sleep on their sides can

consider a nasal pillow mask or a nasal mask, and each has their own sets of bene�ts.

Nasal Pillow CPAP MasksAlso referred to as nasal cushions, nasal pillow CPAP masks are a smaller-sized mask.

These masks are simple to sleep with since they rest right under your nostrils and they

come with unobtrusive headgear.

You insert your nasal pillow mask at the outer edges of your nostrils, rather than over your

entire nose It rests right above your upper lip. The two pillows or cushions seal to your

nose and deliver pressure more directly than some other CPAP masks.

Nasal pillows have dual-wall �aps that provide comfort and ergonomic support while you

sleep. The mask has a built-in �exible chamber ensuring the mask stays in place even if you

shift from side to side. The set of Soft Wraps and silicone-based headgear are made to

maintain the seal of the mask.

A doctor or sleep specialist might recommend a nasal pillow CPAP mask if you:

Experience claustrophobia when you wear larger masksToss and turn while sleepingHave a lot of facial hairBreathe through your nose

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The Bene�ts of a Nasal Pillow CPAP MaskThere are many bene�ts to a nasal pillows mask, including:

Maintains a good seal.Great for side and stomach sleepers.Provides better vision than full face masks or regular nasal CPAP masks.Good for people with claustrophobia secondary to having something on their face.They work well for people with a beard or mustache.They reduce air leakage because they direct air directly into your nasal passages.They work well if you wear glasses because they don’t cover the bridge of your nose.

Read reviews and shop for Nasal Pillow CPAP Masks here.

Nasal CPAP MaskAlso referred to as an oronasal mask, a nasal mask is worn only over your nose. It has a

rounded, triangular shaped dome and is meant to �t the contours of your face

comfortable. Nasal masks come in a variety of shapes and sizes which makes them a good

choice since there’s a mask that can �t just about every patient.

This mask delivers pressurized air through a tube into the space of the mask. You’re

supposed to inhale the air only through your nose, making it a good mask for people who

naturally breathe through their nose and require a higher pressure.

With this type of mask, the pressure is delivered less directly into your mask so it feels like

you’re breathing regular air. People who toss and turn or like sleeping on their side can

bene�t from a nasal mask. However, individuals with nasal or sinus problems like head

colds or allergies might �nd this type of mask uncomfortable when they are dealing with

one of these conditions.

The nasal mask is made for comfort and easy adjustment. The cushion uses a variety of

thickness levels offering a reliable seal for all nasal and facial structures. Its frame is

�exible and adapts to any movement you might make during the night.

This makes it easy for side sleepers to change their position without readjusting their

mask. The mask has a plush, soft fabric headgear that helps reduce marks and pressure

when you sleep on your side.

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A doctor or sleep specialist might recommend a nasal mask if you:

Prefer a more natural air�owRequire a higher pressure settingMove around a lot in your sleepWant a variety of mask options you can choose from

The Bene�ts of a Nasal CPAP MaskThe nasal CPAP mask has many bene�ts as well, including:

Most natural feelingComfortableIndirect and natural air�owLess surface area to seal as opposed to a full face maskWorks better than nasal pillows for higher pressure settingsA variety of styles to cater to almost any facial feature and structureGood if you move around in your sleep or sleep on your side

Read reviews and shop for Nasal CPAP Masks here.

The Need for a CPAP Pillows Mask Designed to Minimize Pressureor Lifting of the MaskFor some individuals, particularly people with high-pressure setting needs, it can be quite

challenging being able to handle all the forced air pressure. However, CPAP pillows masks

can help minimize pressure.

When you use the wrong type of mask, you can run into issues like a lifting of the mask,

pulling it off while sleeping and leaks. These all can lead to a failure of compliance.

Nasal pillows are a lightweight and compact option designed to have minimal contact

with your face. They are ideal for patients requiring low to moderate pressure settings

because the air is delivered directly to your nostrils and could be uncomfortable at higher

settings. They also reduce air leakage since the air goes straight to your nostrils.

Shop for Best CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers: Nasal Pillows andNasal Mask at CPAP.com

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Comfort, �t and size are all important considerations when you choosing a CPAP mask. If

your mask isn’t comfortable, doesn’t �t, or fails to meet your breathing requirements,

chances are you won’t stay compliant with your CPAP therapy.

The good news is today you have lots of choices. At CPAP.com, we carry more than 1,000

products, including more than 230 CPAP masks, so you’re sure to �nd one that �ts you like

a glove.

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CPAP Therapy Tips

Best CPAP Mask for Mouth Breathing: FullFace MaskThroughout the past few years, CPAP manufacturers have developed and released some

new CPAP masks and supplies. Making the right decision on which mask is best for you is

important to staying compliant.

Are You a Mouth Breather?One factor you should consider is how you breathe and choosing the best CPAP mask to

accommodate how you breathe.

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Most people breathe through their nose. This is the proper way of breathing. However,

there are individuals who breathe through their mouth and not their nose. Some people

with sleep apnea tend to breathe through their mouth while sleeping.

Also referred to as xerostomia, mouth breathing occurs for a variety of reasons. Things

like a cold, nasal congestion, allergies or sinus problems and other environmentally –

related reasons are usually temporary and resolve after a small period of time.

When it comes to chronic mouth breathing, however, this is not a temporary thing and

won’t resolve on its own. If chronic mouth-breathing is caused by facial bone structures or

a deviated septum, it’s best you receive treatment so you can start breathing from your

nose.

It’s simple to dismiss mouth-breathing as an issue with a simple solution — when you

notice you’re mouth-breathing, you simply start to breathe through your nose instead.

But, individuals with sleep apnea can’t just start breathing from their nose because their

mouth-breathing occurs when they’re sleeping and unconscious.

Mouth breathing can cause some problems too, including:

Gasping for air and snoring while sleepingGingivitisDry mouth and bad breathChronic fatigueBrain fogThroat problemsTeeth grinding, jaw pain and other dental problems

Also, those with sleep apnea and breathe from the mouth don’t get quality sleep. The

disruption in their sleep during the night can lead to many cognitive, physical and

behavioral issues that can affect their quality of life signi�cantly.

Sinuses produce some of the nitric oxides in your body during nose breathing. This nitric

oxide helps to:

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Kill bacteriaIncrease your lungs’ ability to absorb oxygenKills germs and virusesRegulates blood pressureImproves the immune systemReduces in�ammationEnhances learning and memory

When you breathe through your mouth, you eliminate a lot of the nitric oxide that helps

you thrive.

The problem with mouth breathing and CPAP therapy is the air rushes out of your mouth,

reducing the effectiveness of CPAP therapy and fragments your sleep. If you use a nasal

mask or nasal pillows mask and breathe through your mouth, you’re reducing the amount

of pressurized air you require since, with these masks, the air is being delivered through

your nasal passages.

Full Face Masks for Mouth BreathersYou can improve your CPAP therapy by switching to a full face CPAP mask.

A full face mask �ts a larger space from the top of the bridge of your nose to underneath

your lower lip. It creates a seal over both your nose and mouth. A CPAP mask and mouth

breathing work well together since it doesn’t reduce pressure delivery when the patient

breathes from their mouth.

Generally, a full face mask is recommended for people who breathe through their mouth

while they sleep and those who have colds with stuffy noses.

Challenges of Full Face MaskThere are some Inherent challenges with full face masks, including they:

Fit a larger surface area making a good seal harder.Don’t work well with facial hair.Require a higher CPAP pressure because of how it delivers air.Can cause you to swallow air.Can increase the risk of aspiration.

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If you address these challenges, then a full face CPAP mask may be the best option for you.

Bene�ts of Full Face CPAP Masks for Mouth BreathersWhile full face masks are larger than nasal pillows or nasal masks, they’re comfortable for

many people because it allows them to breathe through their mouth while not reducing

pressure delivery. That’s also why people who require a higher pressure setting do best

with full face masks.

Other important bene�ts of full face masks for mouth breathers are:

Well-suited for people with a deviated nasal septum or high arched soft palate.Ideal as the best CPAP mask for mouth breathers.Fitting for people with claustrophobia.Optimal for high-pressure settings because of its wider surface area which is less direct to thepatient and makes the pressure more tolerable.Ideal for people who sleep on their back.Ideal for CPAP users who use pressure over 17cm H2.Doesn’t strain the nasal passages during cold seasons.Good for individuals whose jaw drops while they’re sleeping.Excellent for individuals suffering from dry mouth also tend to do well with full face masks sincethe humidi�ed air helps to keep their nasal and oral passages moist.

In addition, Individuals who breathe out of their mouth also bene�t with less nasal cavity

irritation since the full face mask delivers air to both the nose and mouth.

Lastly, full face masks usually include supportive pieces you �t to your cheeks and

forehead to ensure you have a good seal.

Shop for the Best Full Face CPAP Mask for Mouth BreathingCPAP therapy is the gold standard for sleep apnea treatment. Breathing through your

nose is the more optimal and natural way of inhaling air. There are numerous

disadvantages of mouth breathing. However, if you do breathe through your mouth when

you sleep, you may bene�t the most with your CPAP therapy by using a full face mask.

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A signi�cant reason why some individuals aren’t compliant and struggle with their CPAP

therapy is due to the mask they’re using. To ensure you can continue successfully with

your CPAP therapy and stay compliant, it’s important you select the right mask that can

accommodate your speci�c needs — in this case breathing through your mouth.

Here at CPAP.com, we have more than 40 CPAP masks for mouth breathing for you to

choose from. You can shop by rating, price, name and top sellers. You can also read reviews

of each CPAP mask for mouth breathers to help you decide on the optimal mask for you.

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Therapy Equipment

How Often Should I Change My CPAPMask? (Wear, Leaks, and Cleaning)CPAP mask maintenance is an important part of CPAP therapy. A big part of that involves

regularly cleaning and replacing your CPAP equipment. This is vital for two primary

reasons:

1. Providing good hygiene.2. Ensuring your equipment functions optimally so you’ll get the most from your CPAP therapy.

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CPAP Mask WearWhile the manufacturer’s warranty (which is typically between two to �ve years) can give

you a good idea of your machine’s lifespan, it’s only one indicator. In fact, a properly

cleaned and maintained machine could even last for seven years or longer.

No matter how well you maintain and clean your mask, you will still experience CPAP

mask wear, There are certain signs you can look for to see if it’s time for a replacement.

Signs of CPAP mask wear include:

If you hear grinding sounds while the machine is running.If you see warning lights that �ash regularly.If you have facial redness, sores and discomfort.

These could be signs of worn seals or you have an old mask with brittle cushions or

headgear. Any undue lights or sounds are typically an indication your machine is getting

ready to stop working, so you’ll want to begin thinking about replacing it quickly. And,

although CPAP mask liners can help with some of these issues, sometimes is much more

than that — it could be a sign of CPAP mask wear and you need a replacement.

You really shouldn’t wait to until your machine reaches the last few months of its life to

replace it, because you risk a lapse in compliance if there’s a miscalculation.

There have been a lot of advancements and improvements over the years in CPAP

machines and masks. A machine that looks “old” might appear this way because it doesn’t

have the latest comfort advancements, like a heated humidi�er and improved user

interface.

CPAP Mask LeaksCPAP mask leaks are unfortunately a problem that can occur and can cause problems for

sleep apnea patients. There are three primary reasons why a mask leak is a problem:

1. Air escaping from your mask can cause noise that can disturb your or your partner’s sleep.2. The escaping air can irritate your eyes causing them to become swollen, bloodshot and dry.3. Excessive mask leaking can compromise your CPAP compliance because you lose the proper

pressure you need to keep your airway open when air leaks from the mask. This can cause snoringat night and increased tiredness during the day.

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Causes of CPAP Mask LeaksAn air leak can be due to an incorrectly �tted mask due to the headgear being adjusted

incorrectly (too loose, over-tightened). When you change sleeping positions during the

night, it can lead to your mask shifting position and causing a leak.

If you don’t clean your mask cushion suf�ciently, it can retain facial oils, causing the mask

to lift off your face as the pressure rises. The masks age also can affect the seal, cause the

cushion to wear and cause the headgear to lose its complete elasticity.

Excessive mask leaking and not being able to obtain a good seal is often a �rst indication

you need to replace the cushion.

Importance of CPAP Mask CleaningProper CPAP mask cleaning is essential. Remember, you’re breathing in the air that

circulates through your machine and into the mask. The air is �ltered and humidi�ed, but

you still need to keep your mask as clean as possible.

When a mask isn’t cleaned thoroughly, it can put you at risk of potential problems and

dangers such as:

Mold exposureBacteria exposureFoul or musty odorAllergy symptomsVoiding the device warrantyMineralization within the equipmentA potential risk of pneumonia or sinus infectionsPremature equipment breakdown

Keep in mind, if you don’t clean your mask properly, it can shorten the cushions’ lifespan. If

you notice you have to pull the headgear tighter to compensate for the cushions’ wear, you

not only need to replace the cushions, but you’re also shortening the headband’s life.

To obtain the optimal lifespan from your CPAP mask:

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1. Ensure you wash your face every night before you put your mask on.2. Avoid using face cream right before bedtime.3. Wipe the cushion with a warm damp �annel cloth every morning to get rid of any facial oils.4. Wash your mask thoroughly once a week. Use original washing up liquid.

When cleaning your mask, don’t use any moisturizers, perfumes, bleaches or antibacterial agents.Use fresh water to rinse off and don’t dry your cushions and mask on a radiator or direct sunlight.

Replacing your CPAP Mask and EquipmentIt might seem wasteful to replace a mask or other equipment when it appears to be

perfectly �ne, but new equipment will help keep your machine clean and functioning

optimally.

So, how often do you replace CPAP mask and equipment? While your insurance company

may determine this, there are some general guidelines you can follow.

It’s recommended you replace your mask and equipment as often as your insurance will

pay for them. Many insurance providers will only pay for a new CPAP mask every three to

six months. However, you can also pay with cash so you’re not tied to this restriction.

It’s wise to get an understanding of the anticipated lifespan and how often you should

replace your equipment.

Here’s a general timeframe of when you need to replace each part:

CPAP mask: Should be replaced every three months.CPAP mask cushion: Should replace your cushion or nasal pillows once or twice a month. Overtime, dirt and oils from your skin can soften the cushion, making it so it doesn’t hold a tight sealanymore with your face. It also affects hygiene. This creates air leaks that can affect how effectiveyour CPAP therapy is.CPAP mask headgear and chinstraps: Should be replaced every six months.CPAP tube: Replace your CPAP tube once every three months like you do with your mask. A CPAPtube can develop cracks and tears with frequent use that result in air leaks. You won’t receiveproper treatment if air is escaping. Plus, the tube can harbor bacteria, particularly if there’scondensation inside.CPAP humidi�er water chamber: Replace this every six months.

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Signs it’s Time to Replace your Mask and EquipmentIf seal deterioration causes leaks in your mask, it’s time to replace it. Over time, facial oils

deteriorate the cushions’ sealing effect, even if you practice good hygiene. When you feel

leaks, don’t tighten the headgear. This can cause pressure points and discomfort, leading

to additional leaks.

If your mask isn’t �tting properly anymore, this could be a sign it’s time to replace it. An ill-

�tting mask can make it so you will need to readjust the mask or over-tighten the headgear

continually, reducing how long it can effectively work. Instead, have your provider re-�t it

for you.

Cleaning your mask and equipment improperly can cause damage. Only use mild, soapy

water. Do not use soaps that contain perfumes or moisturizers.

If your mask has signs of damage or aging, the cushions or components become torn or

cracked or the cushions lose their shape causing leakage issues, it’s time for a replacement.

Remember, CPAP mask and equipment replacement is only one part of the entire CPAP

maintenance. Be sure you get into the habit of cleaning your mask and equipment

frequently in between replacements. This helps limit pathogens exposure and ensures

proper CPAP compliance.

Purchase Your Replacement CPAP Mask and Equipment atCPAP.com Here at CPAP.com, we have an extensive inventory of CPAP masks, machines, supplies,

and accessories. We invite you to browse through our products. You can search for a

replacement mask by customer popularity, rating, price, size needs and more.

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CPAP Therapy Tips

Cleaning My CPAP Mask: Tips, Cleaners, andProductsDo you �nd yourself frequently wondering or asking yourself, “will cleaning my CPAP

mask improve my health?” The simple answer is, yes it can.

It does this by getting rid of debris and other residues that are hidden within your mask,

such as:

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Dead skin cellsOils and residue from your skinBacteriaDirtUnpleasant Odors

These can become trapped inside your mask causing you to breathe them in night after

night and may compromise your overall health.

Cleaning your CPAP mask not only removes these from your mask for the sake of your

health, but It also helps extend the life of your mask, meaning it requires fewer

replacements. Plus, it helps create a better seal for a more comfortable experience.

When it comes to CPAP equipment, your CPAP cleaner should meet the following criteria:

Does not give off a harmful residue.Is hypoallergenic.Is colorless.Is a natural or mild cleaning agent.

You can �nd:

CPAP mask spray cleaners

CPAP mask wipes

Disinfecting CPAP cleaning solutions

CPAP sanitizing machine cleaners

CPAP tube cleaning wands and pads

CPAP equipment dryers

designed to meet the above criteria.

Tips for Cleaning Your CPAP MaskTo properly maintain, clean, and extend the life of your mask, there are two different types

of cleaning that need to take place:

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1. Daily cleaning2. Weekly cleaning

Each one involves different steps and different levels of clean. The better you understand

the differences, the cleaner you can keep your mask, helping to extend its life, quality, and

usefulness. One thing that is vital to remember is that you should always, always, always

clean your CPAP masks, tubing, etc. by hand and only by hand.

Daily Cleaning for Your CPAP MaskDaily cleaning involves the use of mild CPAP mask cleaners or a pre-moistened toilette

designed speci�cally for CPAP masks to wipe down the interior of the mask as well as the

area where it seals to your face.

This process removes oil, sweat, and bacteria from the mask, making it safer to use day

after day. If your CPAP device has a humidi�er, you should also remove leftover water

daily and re�ll the humidi�er with clean, distilled water daily. This will help prevent the

introduction of unnecessary particles, spores, and bacteria into the mask or the air you’re

breathing in through the mask.

If you’ve been sick, you will need to wash your tubing, �lters, and humidi�er – in addition

to your mask, daily for the duration of your illness.

Weekly Cleaning for Your CPAP MaskWeekly cleaning for your CPAP mask is a little more involved than the traditional daily

cleaning process. Instead of merely wiping your mask and tubing with cleansers you will

want to run a sink of warm water with antibacterial cleansers and soak the mark in the

water for at least �ve minutes before cleaning and rinsing the mask and tubing. Allow

them to air dry afterward in a position that ensures all water will clear out of your mask

and the tubing.

You should also rinse the non-disposable (gray) �lter in warm water, squeezing it to make

sure there’s no dust remaining in the folds of the �lter then blot it dry with a towel. Do not

wash the disposable (white) machine �lter. It should be replaced according to the

manufacturer’s instructions.

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What Not to Use When Cleaning Your CPAP MaskWhile there are many products on the market you can use to clean your CPAP mask and

other equipment, there are also many products that might be harmful to use on these

devices, including those listed below:

BleachChlorineScented SoapsOil Based ProductsHand SanitizersAntibacterial WipesAntibacterial SoapsVinegarAmmoniaMoisturizers and Lotions or Soaps Containing Them

Mild detergents work best as do products speci�cally created to clean and disinfect CPAP

masks and equipment. You should also use only distilled water in the device’s reservoir to

ensure there is no buildup in the tubing or discoloration of your mask. Also, keep all CPAP

components out of direct sunlight where they can be damaged.

In addition to CPAP mask cleaning wipes, there are plenty of other products, including

disinfecting cleaning solutions and mask cleansers you can purchase to assist you in

keeping your CPAP mask clean. You can even purchase travel size packages of CPAP

cleaning wipes to help you keep your mask clean while traveling.

CPAP CleanersThere are some CPAP cleaners you can purchase if you don’t want to go to the hassle of

daily cleaning and weekly washing as described above. The various machines, like the

Lumin CPAP Mask and Accessories Cleaner, in the market offer you an opportunity to

enjoy the bene�ts of completely clean and disinfected CPAP masks and other equipment

with far less effort than the washing process involves. In fact, these machines do the

sterilization work for you.

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How do CPAP cleaners work? For the most part, you remove your mask, humidi�ers, and

tubing and place them inside the device. Then the device does the work for you. When you

remove them to get ready for bed you will have equipment that is clean, disinfected, and

ready for use.

When buying CPAP mask cleaning products, make sure none of the products you purchase

contain the ingredients listed above (ammonia, chlorine, bleach, vinegar, etc.). This helps

you avoid doing unintentional damage to your CPAP mask. Buying cleaning products from

reputable organizations will help with that.

CPAP ProductsThere are numerous products available to help you make your CPAP more comfortable, to

allow for more effective CPAP equipment cleaning, and to help you extend the life and

usefulness of your CPAP equipment.

While some equipment, like tubing and �lters, need to be replaced routinely, other

equipment can last a long time when properly cared for.

These products will help you do just that.

Sanitizing machines, like Lumin

Tube-cleaning brushes

CPAP Mask Wipes

CPAP mask spray cleaner

CPAP disinfecting solution

CPAP tube cleaning system for drying tubes

CPAP Equipment Cleaning TakeawaysRegularly cleaning your CPAP masks offers a host of bene�ts. One of the primary bene�ts

being that there are no buildups of unpleasant odors within your mask. Germs, bacteria,

sweat, and oils can create a foul and unpleasant smell combination if not cleaned often.

Daily cleaning helps avoid this type of buildup.

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Additionally, cleaning can extend the life of your mask and your overall good health. The

cleaning tips mentioned above will help you accomplish more with your cleaning time, so

you can keep your CPAP mask in outstanding working order longer.

This saves you money, time, poor health, and more along the way. Now is the perfect time

to start changing your CPAP mask cleaning habits, allowing to get much more pleasure

and bene�t from your sleep experience.

CPAP Mask and Equipment Cleaning Products at CPAP.comHere at CPAP.com, we have an extensive inventory of CPAP mask and equipment cleaning

products. Take a look today.

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Therapy Equipment

Comparing the Best CPAP Masks of 2018The best CPAP masks for your sleeping style and personal comfort preferences may not be

the same as another’s preferred design – and that’s ok. The important thing to remember

is that the right CPAP mask for you will encourage you to follow through on your CPAP

treatment. If you’ve been diagnosed with Sleep Apnea and are in the process of being

out�tted with a CPAP device, deciding on a CPAP mask style and brand is an important

step. Before we jump into a discussion of the best CPAP masks on the market today, it’s

important we discuss a very important topic: how you sleep.

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First of all, before you can choose a CPAP mask that works for you, it’s important to know

exactly how you sleep. It’s important to make the distinction between how you’d like to

sleep versus how you actually sleep. For choosing a mask, you need to go with a mask that

re�ects how you actually sleep, not how you’d like to sleep.

If you breathe through the mouth, a full-face mask might be the best. If you breathe

through your nose, a nasal pillow or a nasal mask might be the way to go. If you breathe

through your mouth, you could use a nasal mask or a nasal pillow if you use a chinstrap.

Depending on your personal preferences, you may like this or you may not. Knowing how

you sleep is absolutely critical to deciding which CPAP mask to get. How do you �nd out?

Ask a spouse or sleeping partner, or pay attention to things like whether or not you have a

dry mouth in the morning (which could mean you breathe through the mouth). Once you

know how you sleep, it’s important to know the differences in the types of CPAP masks

available. Let’s dive in!

Types of CPAP Masks

There are three main types of CPAP masks: the nasal mask, nasal pillow mask, and full face

mask. You’ll want to decide which type works best for your unique physiology and

sleeping style, but keep these basics in mind.

Nasal CPAP masks deliver more natural air�ow than nasal pillows, as the entire mask acts

as a conduit for therapy air instead of the two small seals at the base of each nostril used

in a nasal pillow. This results in less direct air �ow and that can improve comfort. Keep in

mind, though, that nasal masks aren’t generally well-suited to mouth breathers, unless a

chin strap is used to keep your mouth in place.

Nasal pillow CPAP masks are quite popular today, as they are minimalist in design and are

great for those who like to wear the mask while watching TV or reading in bed. The small

overall size tends to remain out of the user’s peripheral vision. If you’re active and toss

and turn a lot throughout the night, a nasal pillow is a great choice.

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A full face CPAP mask is a great catch-all solution for those who require serious air�ow

and tend to breathe through both their mouth and nose. Sleep Apnea sufferers with

allergies or sinus issues tend to like the full-face mask design, and many patients report

that they feel less claustrophobic when using this type of CPAP mask. 

Now that we’ve discussed the three basic types of CPAP masks, let’s examine the �ve best

CPAP masks and discuss the bene�ts of each.

The 5 Best CPAP Masks of 2018AirFit P10 & P10 for Her Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask by ResMedPrice: Around $100

If the ultimate in quiet operation is a priority for you, there isn’t much better on the

market today than the AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask. It is 50% quieter than the

Swift FX, which is already a silent system itself. A lightweight and simple design works

well for those who move around a lot at night, and the �exible nasal pillows and QuickFit

elastic headgear deliver comfortable operation and a stellar �t. A unique feature with the

P10 line is the AirFit P10 For Her Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask. This option is custom-

designed for the unique physiological needs of women. Both nasal pillow CPAP masks

provide air directly to each nostril for easier breathing during sleep.

AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask

AirFit P10 For Her Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask

 

Swift FX Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask by ResMedPrice: Around $100

The Swift FX Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask is ultra-quiet comfort, offers adjustable and

�exible pillows, and even comes in a model designed speci�cally for women. The soft

�eece backing on the silicone headgear keeps the unit in place, while the way the entire

unit �ts the wearer’s face almost makes it feel like the CPAP mask isn’t there.

 

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ComfortGel Blue Nasal CPAP Mask by Philips RespironicsPrice: Around $35

The ComfortGel Blue Nasal CPAP Mask delivers serious comfort thanks to the improved

gel cushion technology used throughout. A combination of a gel cushion and a silicone �ap

system improves performance and enhances comfort at the same time. Premium forehead

pads and high-quality headgear keep the unit in place with ease, and the System One

Resistance Control feature ensures reliable pressure when used with a variety of CPAP

systems. Many people go with the ComfortGet Blue Nasal CPAP Mask because of the low

price, and the mask doesn’t disappoint.

 

DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask by Philips RespironicsPrice: Around $100

Philips Respironics is a leader in CPAP equipment, and their DreamWear series of nasal

CPAP masks are comfortable, ergonomic and effective. The DreamWear Nasal CPAP

Mask offers a top-mount CPAP hose, which minimizes hose contact with the face and

keeps nighttime interruptions to a minimum. The mask uses a tube-style frame for

superior comfort and sealing effect, while the fully adjustable nasal cushions and

headgear ensures a custom �t. This mask is great for back sleepers, too. The DreamWear

family of CPAP masks also comes in Full Face and Nasal Pillow versions, so this is truly a

mask that every CPAP user can enjoy.

 

Brevida Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask by Fisher & PaykelPrice: Around $100

The Brevida Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask is a relative newcomer to the CPAP mask market,

and a lot of people are excited about it. It’s a mask that features comfortable, low-pro�le

nasal pillows, that are designed for minimal contact with the face. It includes cushions of

several different sizes of cushions, so that no matter what size nose you have, there’s a

comfortable cushion for you. It also comes with easily adjustable headgear. Because good

CPAP mask care requires disassembling the mask from time to time for cleaning, the

Brevida has all the connection points color-coded, so that you can easily put it back

together. The Brevida Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask also makes use of so-called “short tube”

design, which gives the wearer more �exibility and freedom of movement.

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Honorable Mention CPAP Masks:

Simplus Full Face CPAP Mask by Fisher & Paykel

SNAPP 2.0 Nasal Prong CPAP Mask by CareFusion

Hybrid Full Face CPAP Mask with Nasal Pillows and Headgear by InnoMed/RespCare

FitLife Total Face CPAP Mask by Philips Respironics

The recommended models above represent a sampling of some of the best CPAP masks

available today. They are reliable, simple, comfortable, and effective, and they are

compatible with virtually any CPAP machine on the market right now. Get more

information about CPAP masks and browse our extensive selection of available units and

cost savings today.

Want to take a deeper dive into CPAP masks? We’ve written a comprehensive guide that

answers most of your questions regarding CPAP masks. We’ll introduce the different

types of masks, and answer many of the most common questions.

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