How to care for your equipment

Regular care and checking of your equipment helps to ensure you’re getting the most from your sleep apnea therapy. We’ve provided some guidelines here, but always check your user guide for detailed information on caring for your CPAP, APAP or bilevel sleep apnea machine and CPAP mask.

Every morning

Clean your CPAP mask cushion. You may not realise it, but over time your skin releases oils that can reduce the quality and performance of your seal and mask. So after wearing your mask, clean it thoroughly to remove any oils.

By washing it in the morning, you will have a clean, dry mask ready to use for your next night.

To clean your CPAP mask, wash it by hand by gently rubbing with warm water and mild soap. Avoid harsh cleaning products, which may damage the mask, or leave harmful residue. Allow it to dry away from direct sunlight on a flat surface.

Clean your humidifier water tub. After each use, we recommend that your sleep apnea machine’s water tub is washed out with a mild detergent and warm water. Then thoroughly rinse and allow it to dry away from direct sunlight.

Every month

Check your mask cushion or pillows as they may deteriorate over time through regular wear and tear. See what to look out for in the ‘When to replace your CPAP mask’ section below.

Check your humidifier water tub for wear and deterioration. If any component has cracked or become cloudy or pitted, the tub should be replaced.

Every three months

Examine your air tubing for small holes or tears, especially around the cuff, that could cause air leaks and potentially compromise your therapy. If you find any tears, you should replace the tubing.

Every six months

Check the filter at the back of your sleep apnea machine. A build-up of dust can impede the effectiveness of your treatment. If you live in a dusty area, or close to the sea, you will need to replace the filter more frequently.

Check your CPAP mask headgear and chin straps. If they’ve lost their elasticity, you may tend to over-tighten the mask, resulting in some discomfort. Replace any part that has become stretched and is no longer providing a good fit.

Inspect the humidifier water tub for wear and deterioration. Clean any white powder deposits using a solution of one part household vinegar to 10 parts water. Replace any part that has developed a leak or become cracked, cloudy or pitted.

Every two years

Go back to your Accredited Outlet to have your CPAP, APAP or bilevel sleep apnea machine pressure tested to ensure you are still receiving the correct pressure.

This information is a generic guide only and does not replace product specific instructions. Please refer to your sleep apnea machine and mask product user guides for more detailed information.

When to replace your CPAP mask

Using a mask that is in good condition will help you achieve a good night's sleep. That's why it's important to inspect your mask regularly for signs of wear and tear. If you see any visible signs of cracking, discolouration or tears, then it's time to replace the part.

It's important to replace your mask regularly to ensure that you maintain comfortable, reliable therapy every night.

Some indications that it might be time to replace your mask (or parts of it) are if you:

often find yourself tightening and re-tightening the straps
notice the mask or cushion have lost their spring
feel your therapy may be less effective than usual
find that the cushion is still slippery even after cleaning it

Where to get new parts

You can purchase replacement parts for your CPAP machine, APAP machine or bilevel sleep apnea machine through your Accredited ResMed Outlet. To locate an outlet near you, use the outlet locator or call our support line on AUS 1 300 305 705 or NZ 0800 737 633 Monday to Friday between 9 am and 5 pm EST.