New Year's Resolution tips for CPAP Users

The new year brings hope of resolution to improve your health and wellbeing. If you use a CPAP machine, now may be the optimal time in making a fresh start with your therapy and improving your overall sleep health.

Quality sleep plays an important role to creating a healthy lifestyle. Get your year started right...utilize the information within the following list and CPAP better in 2025. 

1.Get the Right CPAP Mask Fit

Your CPAP mask may fall off easily if the fit is too loose. If it fits too tightly, the excessive pressure on your face may cause you to take off the mask at night. You can avoid this by adjusting the headgear to get a snug, comfortable fit. If adjusting the headgear doesn’t help, consider replacing the mask. You can try using a different type of CPAP mask.

2. Replace Your Supplies

CPAP supplies such as cushions, headgear, filters and tubing are disposable items. Over time the wear and tear on these supplies will cause you to experience issues with your therapy. Worn out cushions will not seal correctly, leading to leaks in the mask. Overused headgear will stretch out and no longer secure the mask to your face. Filters and tubing become less effective and, if left dirty, can lead to viruses and bacteria build-up.

Recommended Replacement Schedule

• Cushion: Every 1-3 Months (or as needed)
• Headgear: Every 3-6 Months (or as needed)
• Complete Mask: Every 9-12 Months (or as needed)
• Hose: Every 1-3 Months (or as needed)
• Filter(s): Every 1-3 Months (or as needed if noticeable build up)
• Water Chamber: Every 6-12 Months (or as needed

3. Stick To A Sleep Schedule

The circadian rhythm is nothing to ignore. Its your body's internal clock; the one that tells you when it's time to sleep and wake up. Interrupting that rhythm can lead to numerous issues for all of the systems and aspects of your body, quality of sleep, being one of them.

So, pick a time that you want to go to bed each night (half-hour time frame). Also, find a time that you want to get up (also a half hour time frame). Stick to that routine as much as you can, and you will find that the quality of sleep will improve.

4. Maintenance is Key

A CPAP machine requires some maintenance to keep it sterile and in working order. For some people, this necessary step causes them not to use their masks as they should.Your CPAP machine components should be cleaned every day. Because parts of the machine go on your face, it can cause bacteria if you are not diligent about cleaning. Mold can build up in your machine if it is not cleaned.

Schedule daily cleanings of your mask and tubing. Make maintenance reminders on your phone to clean your machine at least two to three times a week. Having daily and weekly reminders to maintain your machine help you stick with a routine.

5. Don't Give Up

Ultimately, the best thing to do is never give up on your treatment. You will have setbacks, but that does not mean its never going to work. You may need to try a few different masks before you find "the one". Maybe you'll need an adjustment, or two, on your therapy pressure. That's OK, it is all apart of the process. Trust me, once you're sleeping like a baby every night and waking refreshed every morning, you won't care about the struggle anymore.

Need assistance finding the right CPAP solution for you? Contact us for more information.