How to Keep Your CPAP Cool in an Aussie Summer

Summer in Australia means barbecues, beach days, and unfortunately, sweltering nights that can play havoc with your sleep. For CPAP users, the heat brings an extra challenge: dealing with humidity, sweat and mask discomfort that can make sticking to therapy tough. Research even shows that CPAP compliance tends to drop during summer months likely due to discomfort and lifestyle disruptions ¹. But don’t sweat it - with a few simple tweaks, you can keep your therapy cool and comfortable all season long.

The first step is managing humidity. Australian summers can be a mix of dry heat in some regions and tropical stickiness in others. If you’re in a humid area or experiencing “rainout”, where water condenses in your tube, try lowering your humidifier setting or using heated tubing to maintain a consistent temperature ^{2, 3}. Conversely, if you’re blasting air-con all night, the air in your bedroom might be drier than you think so you may need more humidification to prevent a dry nose and throat ⁴. It’s all about finding that sweet spot for our specific bedroom environment.

Your choice of gear matters too. If your usual full-face mask feels like a sauna on your face, summer is the perfect time to try a lighter option like a nasal pillow mask for those who can use nasal masks, which covers less skin and feels much cooler ^{3, 4}. To combat sweat and skin irritation, consider using mask liners made from moisture-wicking fabric. They act as a barrier between the silicone and your skin, reducing that sticky, sweaty feeling ⁴. And don’t forget hygiene: heat and sweat are a breeding ground for bacteria, so wash your mask daily with warm, soapy water to keep it fresh and irritation-free ^{3, 4}.

Finally, keeping your bedroom cool is half the battle. Use fans, air-conditioning, or breathable bedding to lower the ambient temperature, which helps your CPAP machine deliver cooler air ³. Never dry your equipment in direct sunlight as harsh UV rays can degrade materials faster [4]. Staying well-hydrated during the day also helps your airway stay moist naturally, reducing the demand on your humidifier ^{3, 4}.

Don’t let the summer heat melt your sleep routine. A few proactive changes can make the difference between tossing and turning and waking up refreshed. If you’re struggling with persistent discomfort, skin irritation, or trouble breathing despite these tips, it’s worth checking in with your doctor to ensure your therapy is still working effectively for you< sup>2</sup>.

How Sove CPAP Clinic Can Help

Founded in 2008, Sove CPAP Clinic has grown to become a leading provider of respiratory and sleep services and products in Australia, with over 80 clinics nationwide. Our comprehensive clinical team includes Respiratory & Sleep Specialists, Sleep Technologists, and CPAP Consultants, ensuring that you receive comprehensive and personalised care. All medical procedures, including sleep studies and lung function testing, are bulk billed to all Australians, with minimal wait time. If you would like to speak to a Respiratory & Sleep Physician, book a bulk-billed sleep study, or seek advice for your sleep apnoea, you can reach us at 1300 76 29 39 or info@thecpapclinic.com.au.

ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea treatment. When considering whether a sleep study or CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&Cs apply.

References

[1] Prigent, A., et al. “Seasonal Changes in Positive Airway Pressure Adherence.” Frontiers in Medicine , vol. 11, 16 Feb. 2024, pp. 1302431–1302431, https://doi.org/10.3389/fmed.2024.1302431.

[2] Afshari, B. “CPAP Summer Guide: Tips and Tools to Beat the Heat | CPAP Online Australia.” CPAP Online Australia, 2 Nov. 2024, www.cpaponline.com.au/blogs/learn/cpap-summer-guide-tips-and-tools-to-beat-the-heat?srsltid=AfmBOoqSyEbDQBUagHq9yGFdNT6JuWJrJW1JF_CCRU42-R2OTf9J_Vms. Accessed 9 Dec. 2025.

[3] Resmed. “CPAP Mask Tips for Summer.” Resmed, 7 Feb. 2024, www.resmed.com.au/blog/cpap-mask-tips-for-summer. Accessed 9 Dec. 2025.

[4] Falconerie, V. “Summer-Ready CPAP Comfort & Hygiene | Sleep Healthcare Australia.” Sleep Healthcare Australia, 30 Oct. 2025, sleephealthcare.com.au/managing-heat-and-hygiene-summer-ready-cpap-comfort/?srsltid=AfmBOopPrpAvBfW3LzgmUs3yD7-TgmPPoLGOHAm0PInrZdl3iKqHuzj2. Accessed 9 Dec. 2025.