CPAP & BiPAP Cleaning, Maintenance & Replacement Guide (2025)

Your CPAP or BiPAP equipment is an important investment in your sleep health. Over time, masks, cushions, tubing, filters, and humidifier parts naturally wear out and can collect oils, moisture, and bacteria. This can lead to air leaks, discomfort, and less effective sleep apnea therapy.

This 2025 Cleaning, Maintenance & Replacement Guide from CPAP Store explains:

• How often to replace each CPAP & BiPAP component
• What warning signs mean a part is worn out or unsafe
• Simple daily and weekly cleaning tips
• How to keep your equipment hygienic and your therapy effective

Detailed CPAP & BiPAP Supply Replacement Schedule

Use the schedule below to help track when to replace your CPAP & BiPAP mask, machine, and supplies. If you notice irritation, air leaks, loud noise, or odors, it may be time to replace parts sooner.

CPAP / BiPAP Mask

Every 6 months

Air leakage, loose headgear, discomfort, frayed fabric, visible rips or tears, cushion loss of shape.
If your mask no longer seals or feels uncomfortable, it may be time to try a new style or be re-fitted.

Wash daily with warm water and mild soap. Avoid facial oils and moisturizers before bedtime.
Let your mask air-dry completely out of direct sunlight.

Mask Cushions / Nasal Pillows

Every 3 months

Leaks, loss of cushion shape, stiff edges, discoloration, cracking, or turning opaque. Because cushions and pillows sit
directly on the skin or in the nostrils, they wear out faster and can collect bacteria.

Wash daily with mild soap and warm water. Do not use alcohol or harsh cleaners. Air-dry only.
Regular sanitizing is recommended.

Mask Headgear

Every 6 months

Loss of elasticity, over-tightening, frayed straps, stretched fabric, and difficulty keeping a good seal
without pulling the straps too tight.

Hand wash gently as needed using mild soap. Air-dry only. Avoid high heat, which can damage elastic.

Chin Strap

Every 6 months

Stretched elastic, fraying, loss of support, or slipping off during the night. Odors from sweat and moisture.

Hand wash weekly and air-dry. Replace when the strap no longer provides gentle but firm support.

Standard CPAP / BiPAP Tubing

Every 6 months

Visible rips or tears, air leaks, loose hose connections, mineral buildup, moisture spots, mold growth,
unfamiliar odors, or whistling sounds during use.

Clean weekly. Fill a sink with warm water and mild soap, soak tubing, rinse thoroughly, and hang to air-dry.
Avoid twisting or bending sharply.

Heated Tubing

Every 12 months

Condensation (“rainout”), inconsistent heating, visible cracks, or loose electrical connectors.
If your tubing stops warming or you see moisture pooling inside, it may need replacement.

Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and mild soap. Do not submerge the electrical connections in water.
Allow to dry fully before use.

Humidifier Water Chamber

Every 6 months

Cloudiness, cracks, pitting, discoloration, or mineral scaling caused by hard water.
Damaged chambers can trap bacteria and may lead to leaks.

Use distilled water only. Empty and air-dry daily. Rinse regularly to prevent mineral buildup.

Disposable CPAP / BiPAP Filters

Every 14–30 days

Visible dust or dirt, discoloration, blocked airflow, or odors. Dirty filters can reduce airflow
and may allow dust, allergens, and bacteria into your machine.

Not washable or reusable. Replace as soon as they look dirty or according to your machine’s instructions.

Reusable Filters

Every 6 months

Visible discoloration, residue, or reduced airflow. If you live in a dusty area,
you may need to replace them more often.

Rinse at least every two weeks under running water and allow to air-dry completely before reinserting.

SD Card / Data Card

Every 12 months or as needed

Card errors, corrupted data, or inability for your provider or software to read your therapy information.

Do not remove the card while the device is running. Store it clean and dry. Replace if errors continue.

CPAP / BiPAP Machine

About every 5 years

Motor wear, loud or unusual noise, hot or burning smell, error messages, or inconsistent pressure.
Most machines are covered under warranty for at least 2 years, and many patients upgrade around 5 years.

Wipe the outer casing with a damp cloth as needed. Never submerge the machine in water.
Keep it on a stable surface away from heat, smoke, and dust.

Oxygen Concentrator Cannula & Tubing

Every 1–3 months

Odors, stiffness, visible cracks, reduced oxygen flow, or discoloration. Replace immediately after respiratory infections.

Clean weekly with a 50/50 water and white vinegar solution followed by a mild detergent rinse. Allow to air-dry completely.

CPAP Wipes & Cleaning Pads

As needed (daily use recommended)

Drying out, loss of moisture, or expiration date passed.

Use daily to gently remove facial oils and residue from mask surfaces between washes.

CPAP & BiPAP Cleaning Tips

• Use only mild, non-moisturizing soaps—avoid alcohol, bleach, and harsh chemicals.
• Always allow parts to air-dry completely before reassembling.
• Use distilled water in the humidifier to prevent mineral buildup.
• Do not share masks, tubing, or supplies with anyone else.
• Follow your doctor’s and manufacturer’s instructions for your specific device.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I replace my CPAP or BiPAP mask?
A: Most patients replace their mask about every 6 months, or sooner if it starts leaking, feels uncomfortable, or the cushion no longer seals properly.

Q: How often should I replace CPAP cushions or nasal pillows?
A: Cushions and nasal pillows are usually replaced every 3 months. They are in constant contact with your skin or nostrils and can wear out or collect bacteria more quickly.

Q: What happens if I do not replace my CPAP supplies regularly?
A: Old or worn-out supplies can lead to air leaks, poor sleep quality, skin irritation, and reduced effectiveness of your sleep apnea therapy. In some cases, dirty equipment can increase the risk of respiratory infections.

Q: How do I know if my CPAP tubing needs to be replaced?
A: If your tubing smells, is discolored, has visible cracks, whistling sounds, or signs of moisture and mold, it is time to replace it.

Q: Do CPAP filters really need to be changed so often?
A: Yes. Disposable filters should typically be replaced every 14–30 days because they trap dust, pet dander, smoke, and other airborne particles. Dirty filters can reduce airflow and strain your machine.

Q: Why does my humidifier chamber turn cloudy?
A: Cloudiness or pitting usually comes from mineral deposits found in tap water. Using distilled water and replacing the chamber every 6 months helps keep your humidifier clean and safe.