CPAP Masks

Choosing the right CPAP mask involves considering factors such as facial structure, breathing habits, and personal comfort.

When choosing a style or brand of mask for the first time, check to see if it is available as a ‘FitPack’. These packs will contain several different size cushions for you to try. We would advise choosing the FitPack to determine your perfect size, and when you reorder replacement cushions or a replacement mask, you can continue to order the correct size.

Please be aware that just because you may currently use a Large size mask or have a large-sized cushion on your mask, it doesn’t mean that every large-size CPAP mask will be a suitable fit for you. When choosing a new mask, it is always best to use the sizing guide before purchasing.

A proper mask fit is essential for effective therapy. Here are some tips to achieve a good fit:

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and adjust the straps to ensure a secure yet comfortable fit.
• Position the mask so that it sits snugly against your face without applying excessive pressure.
• Check for any air leaks by running the CPAP machine and observing if air escapes from the mask. If leaks occur, adjustments may be needed.
• Regularly clean the mask and cushions as recommended by the manufacturer’s guidelines to maintain an optimal seal.

All the masks we offer use a standardised connector to the breathing tube and are interchangeable between machines, giving you have the freedom to choose a mask that will provide you with the most effective therapy.  

Yes, CPAP masks are designed to accommodate different sleeping positions. However, some masks may be better suited for certain positions. For example, nasal cushion masks and nasal pillow masks are generally more suitable for individuals who prefer to sleep on their sides or stomach, while full-face masks can provide stability for those who shift positions frequently during sleep.

There are additional comfort items, such as a CPAP pillow which can assist side sleepers. The specialised cut-outs in the side of the pillow stop the mask from resting on the pillow and being dislodged whilst you sleep.

Due to the nature of the equipment, masks cannot be returned for a refund unless you have opted for mask insurance or you have purchased a risk-free CPAP mask.

Mask-Fit Insurance

If you are considering trying a mask for the first time, you can confidently order using Mask Fit Insurance. Mask Fit Insurance costs £14.99 for nasal masks and £19.99 for full-face masks and allows you to return a mask for a refund if it is unsuitable. You can find full details of the mask-fit insurance on the product page.

Yes, even if you have allergies or a stuffy nose, CPAP therapy can still be effective. In such cases, nasal masks or full-face masks may be more appropriate, as they allow air to be delivered through the mouth. Additionally, using saline nasal sprays, decongestants, or sinus irrigation can help alleviate nasal congestion and improve comfort during therapy.

Wearing glasses or having a beard can sometimes present challenges with mask fit. However, there are mask styles and sizes available that can be accommodating. Masks with a smaller profile or nasal pillow masks generally work better for individuals with glasses, while masks with adjustable headgear can often be better for individuals with facial hair.

Nasal Pillow masks are designed with the least contact with the skin. They instead use two cones that sit on the entrance to the nostrils.

If you require a full face mask, those with beards are advised to use a gel mask if possible, as the cushions are usually more adaptable and can often compensate for facial hair better than a regular silicone mask.

CPAP equipment manufacturers recommend that masks and CPAP equipment be cleaned regularly. They advise washing the mask, tubing and CPAP humidifier chamber at least once weekly because a daily routine can be hard to maintain. However, rinsing the mask and hose daily is great if you can manage it. If you are unwell or sick, daily washing is essential to prevent the build-up of bacteria.

To remain comfortable and effective, your mask should be cleaned daily throughout its lifetime.

Clean your mask in the morning after each night’s use with some CPAP mask wipes or warm, soapy water. Please be aware that non-specific CPAP mask wipes may contain alcohol, which can damage your mask.

In addition, thorough washing of your mask and headgear is recommended on a bi-weekly basis. Your mask should be disassembled into its various components and, along with the headgear, placed into a bowl filled with a solution of a mild soap detergent or unscented washing-up liquid and warm water.

It only takes a few minutes to clean your mask:-

1. Unplug your device
2. Disconnect the mask
3. Wash the outside and inside of the mask with warm drinking-quality water and soap. It is important to avoid strong detergents as these can damage the mask and leave behind harmful residues.
4. Rinse the mask thoroughly in warm, drinking-quality water.
5. Place the mask on a flat surface on a towel to dry naturally. Avoid placing the mask in direct sunlight or on a radiator.

For a comprehensive guide, see our article: How to effectively clean your CPAP equipment.

If your CPAP mask was previously sealing well and is now starting to leak, then the cushion may be reaching the end of its life. Over time, the silicone used in most CPAP masks loses strength and becomes sloppier and less able to maintain a seal. Tightening the headgear can offset this to a degree, but eventually, this will not be sufficient.

This issue tends to happen after around nine months but can happen earlier. Replacing the cushion should solve the problem, but if the cushion alone is not replaceable, then you will need to look at buying a new mask.

For more information on solving mask leaks – check out our comprehensive guide.

The average life span of a CPAP mask is around nine months, but in most cases, the individual consumable parts of the mask can be replaced as and when needed.

Over time, oils from your skin will damage the silicone in the mask seal. Depending on the type of silicone used, most mask seals will become softer over time. When the mask makes a poor seal, air will escape and make your CPAP therapy less effective.

Signs that the seal is damaged may be the sound of hissing as the air leaks out, or you may experience very dry eyes in the morning. You can tighten the mask straps to try to compensate, but when the mask seal is degraded, you must replace your CPAP Mask.