CPAP Replacement Schedule: Masks, Cushions, Filters
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Written by the Morpheus Healthcare team. Medically reviewed by Dr. Ashok Rajput.
Quick answer: Per ResMed’s published guidance, mask cushions and nasal pillows should be replaced roughly monthly (nasal pillows as often as twice a month), disposable filters monthly or more often, tubing about every 3 months, and headgear and humidifier tubs about every 6 months, depending on condition (ResMed replacement guidelines; ResMed — when to replace CPAP supplies). Worn parts don’t fail loudly — they leak quietly and erode your therapy.
The part everyone forgets after buying the machine
You did the hard part: got tested, got fitted, got used to sleeping with airflow. Then a year passes, the cushion has gone soft and yellowed, the filter looks like a Delhi windowsill, and the straps are stretched — and somehow the therapy “doesn’t feel like it used to.” It probably isn’t the machine. It’s the consumables.
The manufacturer’s schedule, in one table
ResMed’s published replacement guidance — all “depending on condition,” which is the honest caveat:
| Part | Replace | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Nasal cushions & nasal pillows | As often as twice a month | Seal softens; collects skin oil |
| Full face cushions | As often as monthly | Same, larger seal surface |
| Disposable air filter | Monthly, up to twice a month | Delhi dust is not gentle |
| Mask frame | About every 3 months | Clips and vents wear |
| Air tubing | About every 3 months | Micro-tears cause silent leaks |
| Headgear & chin strap | About every 6 months | Elastic stretches, leading to over-tightening |
| Humidifier water tub | About every 6 months (cleanable type) | Scale and wear |
| CPAP device itself | About every 5 years | Blower and sensors age |
Why replace parts that “still look fine”
Three reasons, straight from the manufacturer’s rationale (ResMed):
- Hygiene. Cushions collect dirt, oil and bacteria from your skin, which can deposit back on your face, irritate skin and create odours.
- Seal integrity. Like a toothbrush’s bristles, a cushion keeps its shape only so long. A degraded seal means leaks — and leaks mean your prescribed pressure isn’t fully reaching your airway.
- Filter efficiency. A clogged filter works harder and filters worse; ResMed notes built-up filters may even contribute to sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes.
In Delhi specifically, we’d gently point at reason 3: between construction dust and winter smog, we see filters here age fast. Checking the filter monthly is a good habit regardless of the calendar.
A simple Delhi resupply rhythm
Unlike markets where insurers push resupply on a schedule (ResMed notes US insurance covers scheduled replacement), in India it’s on you — so make it low-effort:
- Monthly (1st of the month): glance at cushion and filter; replace if softened, discoloured or dusty.
- Quarterly: new tubing check — run your fingers along it; replace if stiff or cracked.
- Every 6 months: headgear and humidifier tub.
- Anytime: if you’re suddenly tightening straps harder to stop leaks, the cushion (or headgear) is telling you something.
We keep genuine cushions, pillows, filters and headgear for the masks we sell in our masks & parts collection, and if you’d like, we’ll simply remind you when your parts fall due — say the word on WhatsApp. Machine due for a check-up too? See our service page.
One buying note: use genuine parts. A non-genuine cushion may not seal to spec, and manufacturer warranties exclude damage from improper use and maintenance (ResMed standard warranties).
FAQ
Q1. How often should CPAP mask cushions be replaced? Per ResMed: nasal cushions and pillows as often as twice a month; full face cushions as often as monthly — depending on condition (ResMed replacement guidelines).
Q2. How often should the whole mask (frame + headgear) be replaced? ResMed suggests the frame about every 3 months and headgear about every 6 months, condition permitting (ResMed).
Q3. How often should CPAP filters be changed? Disposable filters monthly, and as often as twice a month depending on condition (ResMed). In dusty months, check more often.
Q4. Does cleaning my mask mean I can skip replacement? No — cleaning slows wear but doesn’t reverse it. Cushion material degrades with use, weakening the seal (ResMed). Clean per the user guide and replace on schedule.
Q5. What are the signs a cushion needs replacing early? Softening, discolouration, a slippery/greasy feel, visible cracks, or needing straps tighter than before to hold the seal (ResMed).
Q6. How long does the CPAP machine itself last? ResMed’s guidance indicates devices and heated humidifiers around every 5 years (ResMed replacement guidelines) — though a well-maintained machine is repairable through the authorized service centre within its life.
Q7. How often should the humidifier tub be replaced? About every 6 months for cleanable tubs, depending on condition (ResMed).
Q8. Where do I buy genuine replacement cushions and filters in Delhi? From an authorized dealer — genuine parts, correct fitment for your exact mask model and size. Ours are in the masks & parts collection, with WhatsApp help to match the part to your mask.