CPAP Headgear

Headgear is a crucial piece of your CPAP equipment! It keeps your mask in position, guaranteeing you receive the maximum benefit from your CPAP treatment. Most headgear is made of soft and stretchy material to allow for comfort while still being durable.

When CPAP straps become worn and frayed, you'll have to resort to tightening more often to prevent air leakage, facial soreness, facial irritation, and red marks. That’s why we recommend CPAP headgear be replaced every 6 to 9 months. 

Popular Brands: ResMed Headgear, Philips Respironics Headgear, Fisher & Paykel Headgear

Advantages of CPAP Mask Headgear

CPAP headgear prevents your mask from sliding off or moving while you sleep. CPAP mask headgear also allows you to adjust your mask for a more comfortable, secure fit. Properly-fitted headgear also plays a direct role in keeping a good seal which prevents air from leaking from your CPAP mask while changing sleeping positions during the night. 

Types of CPAP Headgear

Nearly all CPAP masks include the headgear when you purchase. CPAP headgear can be as simple as a single band that wraps around the back of your head, while more advanced headgear may have a cradle shape with multiple connection points and straps that contour the head. 

If you like sleeping with less material touching your face, you might choose a mask that has soft, lightweight headgear with just one strap. If you're an active sleeper and need more support to move around at night, you'll likely do best with a multi-strap headgear design.

Most headgear comes designed for specific CPAP mask styles and models. When replacing your headgear, look for options compatible with your particular mask or mask style. We offer universal nasal mask headgear and universal full face mask headgear, but for those that prefer nasal pillows, it's best to stick with the headgear designed for your mask. While not truly universal, these products fit a wide range of CPAP masks with 4-point connections and can be an affordable alternative to name-brand headgear. 

If your headgear is uncomfortable or irritating, Pad-a-Cheek Mask Strap Pads are a good solution for protecting your face from discomfort. Depending on the brand, you can adjust and tighten your CPAP mask headgear with velcro, snaps-clips, or magnets.

How to Maintain Your Headgear for CPAP

You should clean your CPAP mask headgear weekly. Cleaning your headgear will remove skin oils, oils from your hair, sweat, and other debris. This process will also prevent these materials from irritating your skin and causing problems like pimples or rashes.

To clean:

1. Detach your headgear from your CPAP mask and submerge in warm water in a basin or sink.
2. Use a mild soap to wash your headgear to get it free of all dirt and oil, then rinse it.
3. Allow your headgear to air dry out of direct sunlight. If your headgear becomes discolored due to built-up dirt and oils, you can wash it in a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar.

After your headgear has been thoroughly rinsed, you can hang it to air-dry. You can also sanitize your headgear with the Lumin CPAP cleaner, which uses UV light to sanitize CPAP equipment in five minutes effectively. Check out our CPAP cleaning guide for more information.

CPAP headgear often loses its elasticity over time, which is why you should always avoid using a washing machine or dishwasher to wash your headgear, as it can accelerate the wear on your headgear's elastic. After approximately six to nine months of use, most CPAP mask headgear won't provide adequate tension. As such, you'll need to replace your headgear around twice each year.

Why Buy CPAP Headgear at CPAP.com

Navigating the world of CPAP therapy can be overwhelming, which is exactly why we’re here to help! Our award-winning customer service team is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CST) at 1-800-356-5221 to answer any questions you may have during your therapy journey.