Comfort Tips:

• If your face becomes red or sore, readjust the mask, loosen it, and always turn the pressure on first before putting the mask on. This will allow the mask cushion to “inflate”, then turn to your side(s) and make adjustments by pulling the mask away from your face, slightly, then letting it rest against your face. It is important to never make your mask adjustments sitting upright, since sleeping in that position is unlikely.
• If you begin to have irritation on the bridge of your nose, loosen the mask, and use either a band-aid, or cotton cosmetic pads to buffer the mask from continuous irritation.
• If you experience a dry nose or throat, increase the heated humidifier and/or use Saline nasal spray.
• If nasal draining or sneezing occurs, increase humidification on your unit.  A doctor should be consulted if the mouth remains dry, my may need a chinstrap or full-face mask.
• If you experience irritation in the nostril(s) occur, use a wax-based product (i.e. Carmexâ, beeswax products or Ayrâ gel. It is not recommended to use petroleum-based products (i.e. Vaselineâ.)

Hint:  Always wash your face to remove facial oils before using your CPAP mask to help eliminate leaks and increase the life of the silicone cushion. It is also recommended to wipe down the silicone cushion before using to eliminate the chemical used to remove it from the mold.

Care Tips:

u Use vinegar/water solution (1:4) to disinfect and help eliminate body oil, dirt, dust and/or bacteria. This is a very important step to take after a cold/flu/sinus infection or any other illness that affects the airway.

u DO NOT USE alcohol to clean CPAP masks as it may deteriorate the cushion. 

u DO NOT USE any cleaners containing fragrance or harsh soaps, e.g., Softsoap®, etc.  This will leave residue on the CPAP mask or tubing and increase nasal reaction.  Rinse thoroughly to insure that no detergent/soap residue remains. 

u Headgear can be washed using warm/soapy water or Wooliteâ and allow to air-dry.  DO NOT USE bleach on headgear

u Check CPAP filters weekly.  Foam filters may be washed but should be replaced every few months.  Replace dirty or old pollen (white) filters to eliminate bacteria.

u Your CPAP interface (mask or nasal pillows), headgear and tubing shouldbe cleaned weeklyto reduce replacement

Accessory Replacement Recommendations (Proper care extends the useful life of accessories):

 

Accessories	Replacement Schedule
Full Face Mask Frame	Every 6+ months
Full Face Mask Cushion/Foam	Every 2-3 months
Nasal Mask Frame	Every 6+ months
Nasal Mask Cushion/Gel/Foam	Every 2+ months
Nasal Pillow style interface cushions	Every 2+ months
Headgear	Every 6+ months
Filter (Disposable)	Every 1-3 months
Filter (Non-Disposable)	Every 2-6 months