--- title: How do I know when it's time to get a new CPAP mask? description: Replacing your CPAP mask is necessary for optimal equipment performance and your best health outcomes. Read about how to tell when your mask needs replacing. image: https://www.sleepresolutions.com/hubfs/mask_pic.jpg --- ![logo.png](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/hs-fs/hubfs/2016_Redesign/logo.jpg?width=600&name=logo.jpg "logo.png") - [Home](https://www.sleepresolutions.com) - [About Us](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/about-sleep-resolutions-and-knight-time-medical-garden-city-dodge-city-kansas) - [Meet Our Staff](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/sleep-resolutions-and-knight-time-medical-staff-garden-city-dodge-city-kansas) - [Meet Our Medical Director](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/sleep-medicine-medical-director-garden-city-dodge-city-kansas) - [Testimonials](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/testimonials) - [Sleep Resolutions Locations](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/sleep-center-locations) - [Night Time Medical Location](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/knight-time-medical-location) - [Sleep Services](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/sleep-disorders-testing-sleep-medicine-dodge-city-garden-city-kansas) - [Sleep Studies](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/sleep-studies-type-garden-city-dodge-city-kansas) - [CPAP Therapy](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/cpap-machines-cpap-therapy-cpap-masks) - [CPAP Equipment](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/cpap-machines-cpap-therapy-cpap-masks) - [CPAP Machines](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/cpap-machines) - [APAP Machines](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/automatic-positive-airway-pressure-apap-machines) - [BiPAP Machines](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/bipap-machines) - [Learning Center](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/sleep-apnea-learning-center) - [Blog](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog) - [Contact](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/contact-us-sleep-resolutions) ![bg-img11.jpg](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/hs-fs/hubfs/2016_Redesign/bigstock-Night-sky-with-stars-and-full--102455816.jpg?width=1600&name=bigstock-Night-sky-with-stars-and-full--102455816.jpg "bg-img11.jpg") ## [How do I know when it's time to get a new CPAP mask?](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/how-do-i-know-when-i-need-a-new-cpap-mask) ![Jackie Compton, RST, RPSGT, CCSH](https://app.hubspot.com/settings/avatar/4bc5511d413a8bde0f128aa74ac7edde) By [Jackie Compton, RST, RPSGT, CCSH](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/author/jackie-compton-rst-rpsgt-ccsh) - October 1, 2024 - - - -   ![new cpap mask](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/hs-fs/hubfs/mask_pic.jpg?width=662&name=mask_pic.jpg "new cpap mask") Your CPAP mask is just as necessary for your health as a triathlon participant’s running shoes is to his victory at the Olympics. Both mask and shoes must be replaced on a regular basis for optimum performance and results. And just as important, whereas the Olympic gold medal offers the highest in sports achievement, so CPAP offers the highest in effective sleep apnea therapy. Replacing your CPAP mask on a regular basis is necessary for your best health results. ## Insurance Coverage Medicare and private insurance companies usually cover the cost of CPAP masks, but since coverage varies from one insurance company to the next, it’s a good idea to check with them to find out if they do cover the cost, what percentage they do cover, and what deductible or out-of-pocket expense you may incur. ## How Often Should Masks be Replaced? ![CPAP_REPLACEMENT_SCHEDULE](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/hs-fs/hubfs/SleepResolutions_Jan2016/Images/CPAP_REPLACEMENT_SCHEDULE.png?width=400&name=CPAP_REPLACEMENT_SCHEDULE.png "CPAP_REPLACEMENT_SCHEDULE") It is recommended that masks be replaced every 3 to 6 months, and headgear be replaced every 6 months. This chart shows the recommended intervals for CPAP supplies to be replaced. These intervals also vary among insurance companies, so check with your carrier. A reputable durable medical equipment (DME) company should work closely with insurance companies, and they will be able to assist with equipment questions and possibly some coverage questions. Mask Maintenance To help your mask perform optimally, periodically inspect your mask for holes, leaks, tears, or other damage. A good time to do your inspection is in the morning when you clean your mask.  Wash your mask with warm soapy water and let it air dry in a safe place, away from direct sunlight, pets and children. There is nothing worse than feeling alive and alert as a result of your CPAP and then finding your 8 year old son has painted your mask black, put it on and has become Darth Vader, terrorizing the neighborhood kids with his mind-boggling throat grip powers. Keep your mask in a safe place. ## Wear and Tear Signs to Look For Here are some signs to look for to determine if your mask needs replacement: Is it older than six months old? Has it lost its shape? Does it have a hole in it? Is it cracked or torn? Does it not fit properly? Is it uncomfortable to wear? Is there seal deterioration? Do you feel leaks? ## Leaks Every mask has an exhalation port built into it to expel the carbon dioxide that you breathe out. This leak is normal and must occur in order to protect you from carbon dioxide buildup. After some use, the headgear that holds the mask to your face will begin to stretch, and an older mask will lose its shape (see below). When the headgear loses its integrity or the mask loses its shape, it is time for a new mask. Leaks can occur from either of these events.  Usual places to feel leaks from old or non-working equipment are around the eyes and mouth. Do not tighten the headgear to eliminate the leak; tightening may cause sores on your face or nose and may cause a larger leak. It’s time for a new mask and headgear. ##  Old Versus New ![old and new cpap mask cushions](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/hs-fs/hubfs/old_and_new_mask.jpg?width=640&name=old_and_new_mask.jpg "old and new cpap mask cushions") The photo above shows mask parts from a 9 month old mask cushion (on the top) and a brand new mask cushion (on the bottom).  As you can see, the old mask cushion has lost its shape and its integrity. ## "A Necessary Evil" In a 2012 survey of CPAP users, 62 percent of the users saw cleaning their CPAP equipment as a “necessary evil.”  About 35 percent of users clean their mask once every few weeks. CPAP has been proven to be the most effective therapy for obstructive sleep apnea, and it has given people their lives back, and yet, more than half the people who use CPAP find it  inconvenient to care for the mask. A clean mask will help ensure quality performance. ## Bacteria Cleaning your mask will prolong and improve its use, but even if it looks pristine, it is important to comply with the recommended replacement schedule. Oil, bacteria from your face, makeup and perspiration will break down the integrity of your CPAP mask. In a 2009 study by Horowitz at Harvard University looking at compliance rates and mask hygiene, it was found that bacteria can be eliminated by washing a mask daily with warm soapy water. However, masks that had been used for six months or longer had an increase in the amount of bacteria, despite adequate daily cleaning. Horowitz concluded that the accumulation of bacteria on CPAP masks was unavoidable. ## Compliance Rates CPAP therapy can save your life, and yet, less than 50 percent of people who are prescribed CPAP therapy actually use their CPAP.  Compliance for using CPAP is not good. The major reason people stop using CPAP is due to an uncomfortable mask. If you are having  difficulties with your mask, contact your DME company. They will work with you to troubleshoot your problem or find a mask that will work for you. Helping patients comply with their therapy is one of the most talked about topics in the sleep medicine field. CPAP equipment suppliers are always researching and developing new, more comfortable masks to help people comply with their therapy. ## Verifying Use Because compliance is low, some insurance companies have begun requiring verification of use before they will pay for new replacement parts. With advanced technologies, insurance and DME companies can easily determine how many hours of each night a patient is using the therapy.  Smart Cards, telephone modems and internet hookups enable effective surveillance of patient therapy usage. ![cpap replacement schedule](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/hs-fs/hubfs/cpap_equipment_2.jpg?width=640&name=cpap_equipment_2.jpg "cpap replacement schedule") ## Scheduled Replacement Sleep apnea is very treatable with CPAP. Following recommended parts replacement schedules will enable you to continue to uphold your health and thrive. C[PAP masks](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/different-types-of-cpap-masks-nasal-cpap-nasal-pillows-and-full-face-cpap-masks) are designed to be disposable. Insurance and DME companies have made it easy to replace equipment.  They have developed replacement schedules so the patient can be equipped with the cleanest, most highly operable equipment to provide vitality and good health. You can request to be set up on a regular delivery basis, and the replacement parts will be mailed directly to your home on a regular basis without the fuss of your keeping track of schedules.  Just make sure that your insurance company has a valid supply prescription on file and you are all set! ## Many Years of Health Equipment companies and insurance companies make every effort to help you become compliant with your CPAP therapy. Adherence to CPAP therapy reduces your risk of developing and experiencing the serious conditions associated with sleep apnea such as [heart disease](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/what-does-sleep-apnea-do-to-the-heart), hypertension, [stroke](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/sleep-apnea-and-stroke-dangers-and-risk-factors-hypertension-high-blood-pressure-snoring-osa), depression, just to name a few. Your commitment to comply with therapy will contribute to your living a healthy life.    **Sources:** Horowitz S, Horowitz A, Chun C,. Sleep and Breathing: Care of CPAP Equipment A Factor in Compliance and Hygiene. *SLEEP*, Vol. 32, Abstract Supplement, 2009: A207. [www.sleepnet.com](http://www.sleepnet.com) [www.Resmed.com](http://www.Resmed.com) [www.sleepapnea.com](http://www.sleepapnea.com)   **Image Credits:**  [www.ShutterStock.com](http://www.ShutterStock.com)     [![New Call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/1924770/2e6e13c4-9946-46fa-afa1-da7a9f3e74c2.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/1924770/2e6e13c4-9946-46fa-afa1-da7a9f3e74c2) ![bg-img14.jpg](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/383029/hubfs/Espark-dtemplate/images/bg-img14.jpg?width=750&name=bg-img14.jpg "bg-img14.jpg") ## Join Our Newsletter Join hundreds of other sleep clients in subscribing to our Sleep Talkers Blog. ![bg-img19.jpg](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/383029/Espark-dtemplate/images/bg-img19.jpg "bg-img19.jpg") ![Snoring_and_Sleep_Apnea_Ebook_Cover.jpg](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/hs-fs/hubfs/CTA_images/Snoring_and_Sleep_Apnea_Ebook_Cover.jpg?width=841&name=Snoring_and_Sleep_Apnea_Ebook_Cover.jpg "Snoring_and_Sleep_Apnea_Ebook_Cover.jpg") ###### Download our FREE Ebook on Snoring and Sleep Apnea: Signs, Symptoms and Risks This book covers everything from: Why do we snore, the different types of sleep apnea, to the dangers of untreated sleep apnea.  [![Download Now](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/1924770/13360343-3aa8-400c-890b-ed1d5a7cbf8d.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/1924770/13360343-3aa8-400c-890b-ed1d5a7cbf8d) ## Leave a comment Search this site on Google Search Google ### Subscribe to Email Updates ![Jackie Compton, RST, RPSGT, CCSH](https://app.hubspot.com/settings/avatar/4bc5511d413a8bde0f128aa74ac7edde) Written by [Jackie Compton, RST, RPSGT, CCSH](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/author/jackie-compton-rst-rpsgt-ccsh) - Recent - Popular - Categories ### Lists by Topic - [cpap mask (33)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/cpap-mask) - [reviews (30)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/reviews) - [cpap (17)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/cpap) - [cpap machine (13)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/cpap-machine) - [OSA (10)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/osa) - [cpap equipment (9)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/cpap-equipment) - [sleep apnea, (9)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sleep-apnea) - [cpap supplies (7)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/cpap-supplies) - [sleep study (7)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sleep-study) - [obstructive sleep apnea (6)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/obstructive-sleep-apnea) - [sleep apnea and snoring (6)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sleep-apnea-and-snoring) - [sleep hygiene (6)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sleep-hygiene) - [apnea (5)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/apnea) - [cpap mask replacement (5)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/cpap-mask-replacement) - [sleep deprivation (5)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sleep-deprivation) - [dme (4)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/dme) - [sleep studies (3)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sleep-studies) - [sleepiness (3)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sleepiness) - [stages of sleep (3)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/stages-of-sleep) - [treat your snoring (3)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/treat-your-snoring) - [CPAP masks for children (2)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/cpap-masks-for-children) - [Oversleeping (2)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/oversleeping) - [REM sleep (2)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/rem-sleep) - [accredited sleep center (2)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/accredited-sleep-center) - [allergies (2)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/allergies) - [dental sleep medicine (2)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/dental-sleep-medicine) - [excessive daytime sleepiness (2)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/excessive-daytime-sleepiness) - [pediatrics (2)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/pediatrics) - [respiratory health (2)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/respiratory-health) - [women and snoring (2)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/women-and-snoring) - [Diabetes (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/diabetes) - [SWSD (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/swsd) - [bed partner (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/bed-partner) - [cancer (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/cancer) - [central sleep apnea (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/central-sleep-apnea) - [compliance (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/compliance) - [cpap followup (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/cpap-followup) - [dangers of untreated sleep apnea (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/dangers-of-untreated-sleep-apnea) - [distracted driving (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/distracted-driving) - [drowsy driving (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/drowsy-driving) - [healthcare accreditation (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/healthcare-accreditation) - [hispanic community health (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/hispanic-community-health) - [hospital sleep center (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/hospital-sleep-center) - [independent sleep center (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/independent-sleep-center) - [insomnia and sleep apnea (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/insomnia-and-sleep-apnea) - [insurance (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/insurance) - [men and snoring (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/men-and-snoring) - [menopause and osa (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/menopause-and-osa) - [mixed sleep apnea (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/mixed-sleep-apnea) - [night terrors (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/night-terrors) - [obesity and sleep (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/obesity-and-sleep) - [parasomnia (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/parasomnia) - [polysomnography (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/polysomnography) - [ptsd (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/ptsd) - [sex (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sex) - [shift work sleep disorder (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/shift-work-sleep-disorder) - [sleep apnea and brain damage (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sleep-apnea-and-brain-damage) - [sleep apnea and cancer (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sleep-apnea-and-cancer) - [sleep apnea consequences (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sleep-apnea-consequences) - [sleep apnea mouthpiece (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sleep-apnea-mouthpiece) - [sleep apnea risks (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sleep-apnea-risks) - [sleep architecture (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sleep-architecture) - [sleep disorders (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/sleep-disorders) - [snoring (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/snoring) - [uars (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/uars) - [untreated sleep apnea (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/untreated-sleep-apnea) - [upper airway resistance (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/upper-airway-resistance) - [when snoring becomes OSA (1)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/topic/when-snoring-becomes-osa) see all [![Snoring and Sleep Apnea](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/1924770/af05c7c9-a136-4dbf-b1e1-ac596ac52485.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/1924770/af05c7c9-a136-4dbf-b1e1-ac596ac52485) [![New Call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/1924770/dba5e25c-38c0-4b47-9e28-924bf4d7fc40.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/1924770/dba5e25c-38c0-4b47-9e28-924bf4d7fc40) #### Related posts [![When Was the Last Time You Got a New CPAP Mask?](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/hubfs/Blog_Images/woman_CPAP_Mask.jpg)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/when-was-the-last-time-you-got-a-new-cpap-mask) ##### [When Was the Last Time You Got a New CPAP Mask?](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/when-was-the-last-time-you-got-a-new-cpap-mask) ![Kristen Havens](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/hubfs/seattleheadshot-smaller.jpg) By [Kristen Havens](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/when-was-the-last-time-you-got-a-new-cpap-mask/author/kristen-havens) - November 14, 2016 [![What happens if part of my CPAP sleep apnea mask breaks?](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/hubfs/Blog_Images/senior_woman_putting_on_cpap_mask.jpg)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/what-happens-if-part-of-my-cpap-sleep-apnea-mask-breaks) ##### [What happens if part of my CPAP sleep apnea mask breaks?](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/what-happens-if-part-of-my-cpap-sleep-apnea-mask-breaks) ![Kristen Havens](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/hubfs/seattleheadshot-smaller.jpg) By [Kristen Havens](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/what-happens-if-part-of-my-cpap-sleep-apnea-mask-breaks/author/kristen-havens) - October 17, 2016 [![Why now is a good time to upgrade your CPAP (Sleep Apnea) mask: (Hint: Insurance Deductibles)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/hubfs/Blog_Images/couple_with_cpap_mask.jpg)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/why-now-is-a-good-time-to-upgrade-your-cpap-sleep-apnea-mask-hint-insurance-deductibles) ##### [Why now is a good time to upgrade your CPAP (Sleep Apnea) mask: (Hint: Insurance Deductibles)](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/why-now-is-a-good-time-to-upgrade-your-cpap-sleep-apnea-mask-hint-insurance-deductibles) ![Kristen Havens](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/hubfs/seattleheadshot-smaller.jpg) By [Kristen Havens](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog/why-now-is-a-good-time-to-upgrade-your-cpap-sleep-apnea-mask-hint-insurance-deductibles/author/kristen-havens) - October 10, 2016 #### Sleep Resolutions - Garden City 1506 Taylor Plaza East Garden City, KS 67846 Phone: 620-271-9400 Toll-Free: 866-758-9400 Fax: 620-271-9201   #### Night Time Medical 1508 Taylor Plaza East Garden City, KS 67846 Phone: 620-276-8100 Fax: 620-276-8106 #### Site map - [Home](https://www.sleepresolutions.com) - [About Us](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/about-sleep-resolutions-and-knight-time-medical-garden-city-dodge-city-kansas) - [Sleep Services](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/sleep-disorders-testing-sleep-medicine-dodge-city-garden-city-kansas) - [CPAP Equipment](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/cpap-machines-cpap-therapy-cpap-masks) - [Learning Center](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/sleep-apnea-learning-center) - [Blog](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/blog) - [Contact](https://www.sleepresolutions.com/contact-us-sleep-resolutions) #### Email For newsletter ### Subscribe our Newsletter Copyright © 2015 your Company. All rights reserved.