When to Upgrade Your CPAP Mask – Signs It’s Time

Using your CPAP machine every night is one of the most effective ways to manage sleep apnea and improve your sleep quality. But just like any equipment you rely on daily, your CPAP mask doesn’t last forever. Over time, parts wear out, become less effective, or simply stop feeling as comfortable as they once did. Knowing when to upgrade your mask can make a big difference to both your comfort and the effectiveness of your therapy.

Key Signs to Look For:

1. Persistent Air Leaks
One of the clearest warning signs is air escaping around the seal. This can indicate a worn or deformed cushion, stretched headgear, or loss of mask integrity. Even small leaks can reduce your therapy’s effectiveness¹.

2. The Fit Feels Wrong
If the mask feels loose, shifts frequently, or you find yourself tightening the straps beyond normal, the headgear may have lost elasticity. Over time, the mask may no longer sit properly on your face, leading to leaks and an improper seal¹.

3. Skin Irritation or Pressure Marks
If you experience redness, indentations, soreness, or marks where the mask presses on your skin, the seal may be forcing pressure to compensate for loss of shape. Overtime this can lead to irritation and redness of the skin around the mask².

4. Visible Wear, Discoloration or Damage
If there are cracks, tears, fraying elastic, yellowing or deformation of the mask, these are all signs that the mask is no longer in prime condition. Alongside regular cleaning, you should inspect your mask often to check its condition².

5. Return of Daytime Fatigue or Symptoms
If you begin your day waking up tired, snoring despite therapy, or experiencing morning headaches again, your CPAP mask could be failing you. Your sleep apnea treatment might be compromised by an underperforming mask¹.

6. You Can’t Remember When You Last Replaced It
If you’ve been using the same mask for many months (or longer) without swapping parts, chances are it’s overdue. Many parts of a CPAP mask naturally degrade over time and should be replaced regularly³.

Typical Replacement Timeline (Guidelines)

While manufacturer schedules vary, here are the common guidelines:

• Cushions / nasal pillows: Replace silicon and nasal cushions every 6 months (or sooner if leaks occur). For cushions made of memory foam, they will need to be replaced once a month⁴.
• Mask frame (excluding headgear): Replace roughly every 6 months, or when structural wear appears⁴.
• Headgear / straps: Replace around every 6 months or earlier if elasticity is lost or fit deteriorates⁴.
• Tubing: Replace every 12 months, as tiny cracks, condensation, or bacteria buildup can occur⁴.
• Humidifier Tub: Replace about once a year to avoid damage or bacteria buildup, especially if not cleaned regularly.
• Full mask replacement: Many users replace the entire mask (frame + components) every 6–12 months if wear is significant⁵.

Time For an Upgrade?

Your comfort, hygiene and therapy success hinge on a mask that seals well and feels right. If you notice multiple signs from above, don’t wait — upgrade your mask as soon as something feels wrong. If these signs raise any concerns, speak to your doctor or reach out to our friendly CPAP consultants at Sove CPAP clinic.

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 60 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 apnea, 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 Apnea 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. NuCara Home Medical. “Is It Time to Replace Your CPAP Mask? 5 Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore.” Nucara.com, Aug. 2025. Link
2. EdenSleep. “Five Signs That Your CPAP Mask Could Need Replacing.” Edensleep.co.nz, 21 Aug. 2019. Link
3. Mun, Andrew. “Here’s How Often You Should Be Replacing Your CPAP Gear.” Resmed.com.au, 28 May 2021. Link
4. “Why, When and How to Replace Your CPAP Mask.” Resmed.com.au, 28 Feb. 2023. Link
5. Fisher & Paykel. “How Often Should I Replace a CPAP Mask & Other Equipment?” Fphcare.com, 2025. Link