Nasal CPAP Masks

There are three main mask types used in CPAP therapy:

Full face masks cover both the nose and mouth. They are recommended for mouth breathers, patients requiring higher pressure settings, or those who find nasal-only masks uncomfortable.

Nasal masks cover just the nose and are the most commonly prescribed type. They offer a good balance between seal integrity, comfort and compatibility with a wide range of pressures.

Nasal pillow masks use small cushioned inserts that sit at the nostril entrance rather than covering the nose. They are the most minimal option and are favoured by patients who feel claustrophobic, wear glasses or have facial hair.

Your prescribing clinician will recommend a mask type based on your breathing pattern, pressure requirements and comfort preferences.

Most CPAP masks are available in small, medium and large sizes. Manufacturers typically provide a sizing guide or template that you print and hold against your face to determine the correct fit.

The cushion should sit comfortably against your skin without pressing too hard or gaping at the edges. A correctly sized mask will form a seal with minimal headgear tension, reducing pressure marks and skin irritation.

If you are purchasing a replacement cushion, check the model number and size printed on your existing cushion or refer to the packaging. If you are unsure, contact our team and we will help you identify the correct size for your model.

Achieving a good mask seal requires the correct size cushion, proper headgear adjustment and a clean, oil-free skin surface. Key tips include:

Wash your face before putting on your mask each night. Skin oils are the most common cause of premature cushion degradation and seal failure.

Adjust headgear with the machine running. Put the mask on loosely, start your machine and then gently snug the headgear straps until the seal is achieved. Over-tightening is a common mistake and causes discomfort without improving the seal.

Replace the cushion regularly. Cushions should be replaced every one to three months. A worn cushion loses its elasticity and will no longer seal effectively regardless of how the headgear is adjusted.

If you experience persistent leaks, the cushion size may be incorrect for your facial anatomy. Try a different size or contact us for advice.

If you breathe through your mouth during sleep, a full face mask is usually the most appropriate choice as it covers both the nose and mouth, preventing pressurised air from escaping through the open mouth.

An alternative for nasal mask users is a chin strap, which supports the jaw during sleep and encourages nasal breathing. However, chin straps are not effective for all patients and a full face mask is generally more reliable.

Some patients find that using the humidifier helps reduce mouth dryness and makes nasal breathing more comfortable over time. Your clinician can advise on the most suitable approach for your situation.

Most CPAP masks use a standard 22mm connection port and are compatible with machines from all major manufacturers including ResMed, Philips Respironics, Fisher & Paykel and DeVilbiss. The standard tubing diameter is 22mm, though some newer machines use a slimmer 15mm port for certain tube types.

If you have a machine that uses heated tubing (such as the ResMed ClimateLineAir or Philips HeatedTube), ensure the mask you choose is compatible with that tube format. Standard masks will still work with a standard tube on these machines.

If in doubt, check your machine's specifications or contact our team before ordering.

As a general guide, the following replacement schedule is recommended:

Cushion: every 1 to 3 months depending on use and cleaning habits. Silicone cushions degrade with prolonged exposure to skin oils and cleaning agents.

Headgear: every 6 months. Headgear loses its elasticity over time, making it difficult to maintain a consistent seal.

Frame: every 12 months or when cracking, discolouration or structural damage is visible.

Complete mask: every 12 months or as clinically indicated.

Replacement parts are available individually on our website, so you do not need to replace the entire mask assembly when only one component wears out.

Daily: wipe the cushion with a CPAP mask wipe or a soft damp cloth to remove skin oils and moisture. Allow to air dry before the next use.

Weekly: disassemble the mask into its components — cushion, frame and headgear. Wash each part in warm water with a small amount of mild, fragrance-free soap. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely away from direct sunlight.

Avoid using alcohol-based products, bleach, baby wipes containing aloe or lanolin, or dishwashers, as these will degrade silicone and reduce the lifespan of the cushion significantly.

Do not use an ozone-based CPAP cleaner on silicone components, as ozone can accelerate silicone degradation and may leave harmful residues.

Facial hair is one of the most common causes of mask leak, as hair prevents the cushion from forming a continuous seal against the skin.

Nasal pillow masks tend to perform best with facial hair, as the seal is formed at the nostril entrance rather than across the cheeks or upper lip. The smaller contact area reduces the likelihood of hair interfering with the seal.

For full face or nasal mask users with beards, a mask with a gel or memory foam cushion may provide a more forgiving seal than a standard silicone cushion. Some patients also find that trimming the moustache area minimally improves the seal without requiring a full shave.

If you are struggling with leaks due to facial hair, contact our team and we will recommend the most suitable options for your situation.

Yes. CPAP masks are eligible for VAT Relief under Group 12 of Schedule 8 of the Value Added Tax Act 1994, which covers medical devices purchased by chronically sick or disabled individuals for personal use.

To claim VAT Relief, you must declare at the point of purchase that you have a qualifying chronic illness or disability and that the goods are for your personal or domestic use. A tick-box declaration is provided at checkout on our website.

VAT Relief reduces the price of eligible products by 20%. You do not need to provide a GP letter or formal prescription to make the declaration, but the declaration must be truthful. Making a false declaration is a criminal offence under UK law.

If you have any questions about your eligibility, please consult your GP or clinician.

A 30-day change-of-mind return is available for masks that are completely unopened and unused in their original sealed packaging. For hygiene and clinical safety reasons, masks that have been opened, fitted or used — even briefly — cannot be returned or exchanged.

We strongly recommend reviewing sizing guides before ordering, and contacting our team if you are unsure which size or style is right for you. We are happy to assist before you purchase.

If your mask arrives faulty or damaged, please contact us within 48 hours and we will arrange a replacement or refund promptly.