Mask Tips
Sizing a New Mask
Most masks offer a sizing template that you can print out at home, then use to find the right size cushion.
While this is generally a good approach, we've heard more than our fair share of stories where someone buys the cushion size that the sizing template told them to, only to find that their cushion is leaky, irritating, or downright uncomfortable.
Mask Fit Packs include multiple cushion sizes, so you'll be able to try each one directly and make the most accurate choice for your needs.
Mouth Breathing
Typically, full face masks are a better choice if you tend to breathe through your mouth.
If you opt for a nasal mask and you mouth falls open during sleep, therapy air will escape and significantly dry you out.
And, when therapy air is leaking out of your mouth, it isn't holding your airway open, resulting in ineffective therapy and more apnea events.
Even if you mouth breathe, nasal masks can be viable. A CPAP chinstrap or mouth tape can help keep your mouth closed while you sleep, empowering you to enjoy the full benefits of successful therapy.
CPAP Desensitization
Getting used to CPAP happens at different rates for different people. We recommend 'practicing' with CPAP during the day.
Whether that's napping, wearing your mask while working from home, or simply lounging with your mask on watching TV or reading a book, all of these activities can help train your brain to adjust to CPAP faster.
Mask Liners
Mask liners serve as a soft cloth barrier between your skin and your CPAP mask. They can help reduce skin irritation, but their main purpose is to solve pesky leak issues that persist no matter how you sleep or tighten your headgear.
While they aren't available for every mask, you should be able to find one for most masks.
If you're struggling with a leaky mask, a mask liner may be just what you're missing.
Sleep Position
Experiment with different sleeping positions to find the most comfortable one that minimizes mask leaks and pressure points.
You might also find that a CPAP pillow allows you to sleep in familiar positions without drastically changing your sleep routine.
CPAP pillows are made with intentionally-designed cutouts to accommodate your mask and tubing, with some featuring adjustable heights and divots that mold to your head and neck.
Side sleeping is typically the best position to reduce apnea events.
Daily Cleaning Routine
When it comes to daily maintenance, you'll want to wash your mask cushion every day after use, or wipe it down with some CPAP cleaning wipes.
If your mask has a short tube connector, rinse it out and leave it to drip dry using a shower rod or CPAP hose hanger.
Weekly Deep Clean
Once a week, soak and wash your mask frame, headgear, and cushion in warm, soapy water.
Leave equipment to dry out of direct sunlight or invest in a Hurricane Equipment Dryer.
Self-Motivating
Adapting to CPAP can be challenging, but it's worth the effort. It's important to remind yourself why your sleep apnea needs to be treated.
When you feel like giving up, remember that treating sleep apnea improves your energy levels, cognitive performance, and mood regulation.
It also prevents serious health issues like chronic fatigue, high blood pressure, heart disease, alzheimer's, and more.
CPAP doesn't just protect your health, though, it empowers you to show up more fully for your life and relationships.
Whether it's staying awake through your niece's dance recital, keeping up with rambunctious grandchildren, or simply finding the energy to enjoy your hobbies again, CPAP empowers you to be present for life's little moments with the people and activities you love.
We think that's worth pursuing, and we hope you agree.
Let's tackle sleep apnea together and embrace a healthier, more vibrant life.
Find even more in-depth guides and reviews on the CPAP.com blog, or reach out to our CPAP Guides for more personal recommendations.