When To Replace Your CPAP Supplies

Supply Replacement Timelines to Ensure Your Machine is Working Properly

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is a life-changing treatment for individuals with sleep apnea, helping them breathe easier, sleep better, and reduce health risks like stroke and heart disease. However, for CPAP therapy to be truly effective, it requires regular maintenance—including replacing key components of the device.

“Consistent CPAP maintenance isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for effective therapy. Regularly replacing your supplies ensures optimal hygiene, proper fit, and uninterrupted airflow, allowing you to breathe easier, sleep better, and protect your long-term health,” says Robert Miller, Apria's Vice President of Sleep Business.

Over time, CPAP parts wear out, making them less hygienic, less comfortable, and less effective at delivering the air pressure needed to prevent apneic episodes. To ensure you continue receiving the best possible benefits from your CPAP machine, following a replacement schedule for different parts of your system is essential.

Why Replacing CPAP Supplies is Essential

There are three key reasons why replacing your CPAP supplies on schedule is critical for maintaining effective therapy:

1. Hygiene & Health Risks
   
   Even with regular cleaning, CPAP components become breeding grounds for bacteria, mold, and germs over time. Since your CPAP device delivers air directly into your airways, failing to replace parts can lead to respiratory infections, sinus issues, and other health concerns.
   
   
2. Comfort & Fit
   
   Worn-out CPAP masks, cushions, and headgear lose their shape and elasticity, making them uncomfortable to wear. When this happens, you may experience mask leaks, which reduce therapy effectiveness and force you to tighten the straps, leading to discomfort and pressure marks.
   
   
3. Therapy Effectiveness
   
   If CPAP parts are not replaced regularly, mask leaks and air loss can prevent the machine from delivering the correct pressure levels to keep your airway open. This results in poor sleep quality, more apnea events, and reduced health benefits from the therapy.

CPAP Replacement Schedule

Follow these general replacement guidelines to keep your CPAP therapy as effective as possible. Remember that insurance coverage for CPAP supplies may vary, so check with your provider to understand your benefits.

Every 2 Weeks

Nasal Mask Cushions & Nasal Pillows – These wear down quickly, losing their cushioning and making it harder to maintain a proper seal. This can lead to mask leaks and discomfort.

Disposable Filters – These trap fine particles and debris before air enters your CPAP machine. Since they cannot be washed, they must be replaced every two weeks to prevent dust and allergens from entering your airways.

Every 1 Month

Full Face Mask Cushions – These absorb facial oils and dirt, leading to loss of effectiveness and air leaks. Look for signs of wear, such as tears or stretching, as indicators that it’s time to replace them.

Every 3 Months

Mask Frame – The frame provides structure and support to the mask, but over time it can become brittle, cracked, or discolored, affecting the mask’s fit and effectiveness.

Standard & Heated Tubing – Tubing experiences micro-tears and air leaks over time, reducing pressure delivery and creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Since tubing is difficult to clean thoroughly, replacement every three months is recommended.

Every 6 Months

Headgear & Chin Straps – With daily use, these lose elasticity, which affects the mask’s fit and leads to leaks and discomfort. Avoid overtightening straps, as this may cause pressure marks and irritation.

Humidifier Water Chamber – Over time, mineral deposits and bacteria accumulate, reducing the humidifier’s ability to provide moisturized air, increasing the risk of respiratory infections.

Non-Disposable Filters – These trap pollen and larger debris before air reach the CPAP system. Unlike the disposable filters, these can be washed. However, even with regular cleaning, they should be fully replaced every six months to maintain proper air filtration.

Every 5 Years

CPAP Machine – Like any electronic device, CPAP machines wear out over time, losing pressure accuracy and efficiency. Additionally, newer models may offer improved technology, quieter motors, and better comfort features. Many insurance plans cover a new CPAP device every five years, so take advantage of this upgrade when available.

Maximizing the Lifespan of Your CPAP Equipment

While replacing CPAP supplies is necessary, proper care and maintenance can help extend their usability between replacements:

• Clean your CPAP mask, tubing, and humidifier chamber daily to reduce bacteria buildup.
• Use distilled water in the humidifier to prevent mineral deposits.
• Store your CPAP device in a clean, dry area away from dust and pet hair.
• Inspect your CPAP supplies regularly for cracks, discoloration, or wear and tear.

By following a proper replacement schedule and maintaining your CPAP equipment, you can ensure a safe, comfortable, and effective therapy experience—allowing you to enjoy better sleep, improved health, and a higher quality of life.

Check with your insurance provider to determine your coverage for replacement supplies and keep your CPAP therapy at peak performance!

References
“How Often Should I Replace My CPAP Supplies?” Advanced Respiratory Care Network. Accessed March 7, 2025. https://www.arcnetwork.ca/how-often-should-i-replace-my-cpap-supplies.
Peters, Brandon. “Simple Guidelines for Replacing CPAP Supplies Including Masks, Filters.” Verywell Health, January 12, 2025. https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-often-should-i-replace-my-cpap-supplies-3015041.
“Why and When to Replace Your CPAP Supplies.” ApriaDirect, October 13, 2021. https://blog.apriadirect.com/blog/why-and-when-to-replace-your-cpap-supplies. 

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