Note that cleaning instructions are provided in the user guide that accompanies your mask. Hand-washing with pure soap and warm water is advised. Oil build-up can cause accelerated wear and tear on your mask, which could lead to both a deteriorated mask seal as well as skin irritation. Therefore ResMed recommends cleaning your mask regularly to ensure optimum therapy.

Both the mask and headgear can only be cleaned by hand washing with pure soap and warm water, to remove all facial oils. Wash by gently rubbing in warm water. Do not soak the mask. Rinse all components thoroughly with drinking-quality water and allow them to dry naturally, out of direct sunlight. There's no need to disassemble the mask completely and you don't have to remove the headgear clips.

What not to do. ResMed recommends that to avoid accelerating the wear and tear of your mask, which can result in diminished performance as well as skin irritation, follow the advice below.

• Don't wash your mask in the dishwasher
• Don't iron your headgear
• Don't use cleaning materials other than pure soap
• Don't use a clothes dryer to dry mask components
• Don't dry the mask's components in direct sunlight

Note that cleaning instructions are provided in the user guide that accompanies your mask. You should avoid anything that is not pure and natural. ResMed recommends that you use only natural or pure products/solutions to clean your mask, as the residual vapours that are left behind from non-natural cleaners can be inhaled if not rinsed very thoroughly.

Antibacterial soaps, among others, may damage your mask and cause cracks, which may lead to skin irritation and poor mask performance. Furthermore, do not iron the headgear as the material is heat-sensitive and will be damaged.

What not to use. ResMed recommends that you avoid using the products and solutions that are listed below.

• Don't use aromatic-based solutions, Eucalyptus oil, essential oils, scented oils
• Don't use antibacterial soaps
• Don't use detergents (even if they are mild or include some natural ingredients)
• Don't use alcohol
• Don't use vinegar
• Don't use soaps with citrus scents

Daily and weekly. Daily washing of your mask after each use is recommended and is outlined below. Cleaning your headgear once a week is usually sufficient, however, if you have oily skin or hair, you may need to wash it more often.

Mask: After each use, hand-wash the mask with pure soap to remove all facial oils. Wash by gently rubbing in warm (30°C / 86°F) water. Rinse all components thoroughly with drinking-quality water and allow them to dry naturally, out of direct sunlight. There's no need to disassemble the mask completely. Make sure not to soak the mask.

Headgear: The headgear should only be hand-washed by gently rubbing in warm (approximately 30°C / 86°F) water using mild soap. All components should be rinsed well with drinking quality water and allowed to air dry out of direct sunlight.

Note that cleaning instructions are provided in the user guide that accompanies your mask.

A sleep therapy mask used at home tends to last 6-12 months. This is only an approximate figure depending on how often you use it and clean it, but is far in excess of the standard 90-day warranty provided. Click here to view ResMed’s full warranty details.

Using a mask that is in good condition will help you make sure that you're getting a proper seal during therapy. Effective treatment provides you with comfortable, optimal results, so you enjoy a good night's sleep and feel refreshed every morning, ready for the day ahead.

It's extremely important that you inspect your mask regularly for deterioration, signs of wear and tear, damage, or performance, and promptly replace parts or your entire mask if it is not working properly. This is important, because when your mask or some parts of it become worn or are damaged over time, the efficacy of the treatment you are receiving will be diminished.

Visit your accredited outlet for replacement parts or a replacement mask and to check out the latest ResMed options.

Every 6 months

• Full face / nasal cushion
• Nasal pillows

Every 8 months

• Headgear

Every 12 months

• Complete mask system (with headgear)

Yes. All ResMed mask components can be purchased separately through an accredited ResMed distributor. Part numbers (codes used to order) for each part are available on this website.

To locate a distributor near you call sleepVantage on 1300 305 705 (Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm Eastern Standard Time).

If you breathe through your mouth or have mouth leaks. If this is you, then you won't be receiving your full treatment pressure and therefore the full benefits of your treatment. A full face mask would help because this style of mask will stop air loss that can compromise your treatment, and it can resolve any dry throat and nose problems that you may be having as well. Even if you don't mouth breathe, you may still experience mouth leaks, which can contribute to decreased treatment effectiveness and the resulting symptoms of poor therapy.

Yes. Our Mirage® masks have a very thin membrane, which will typically seal even with a moustache. The shallow cushion in particular is ideal for patients with a moustache, as they may need to adjust the cushion in closer to the top lip. The shallow cushion allows the user to angle the cushion more and maintain the seal at the bridge of the nose.

Yes, absolutely. Based on one recent study, one could argue that people using bilevel therapy are more likely to benefit from a full face mask because they are more prone to mouth leak and mouth breathing. In the study, data showed that nearly ALL patients on non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) experienced some degree of mouth leak and/or mouth breathing. Mouth leak reduces the quality of your sleep and causes sleep fragmentation.

Yes. Switching to a full face mask may eliminate or reduce your need for humidification.

Most ResMed full-face masks have an anti-asphyxia valve (AAV) and most machines have safety features which allows the user to breathe through, even in the event of power failure. Furthermore, masks and compatible machines are prescribed by the healthcare professional to ensure that the patient is not exposed to a risk. If in doubt, check with your healthcare professional and refer to your user guide for more information.

Try re-fitting the mask. Mask discomfort may be caused by fitting the mask incorrectly. ResMed masks are designed to be worn loosely and comfortably. We would recommend that you re-fit the mask using the fitting instructions in your mask user guide or click here and select your mask to see the fitting video.

Try a different sized mask. If you can only get a good seal by tightening the mask until it is uncomfortable, then you may have the wrong sized mask. Visit your accredited outlet to be re-fitted with the correct size.

Try a different type of mask. If your mask still feels uncomfortable, you may require another type of mask. ResMed offers a variety of mask types and you will find that some masks suit you more than others. Visit your accredited outlet or click here to view ResMed's complete range of masks.

Give it time. If you're new to therapy it's normal to take a while getting used to wearing a mask every night. You may want to try wearing your mask for a little while during the day (while watching TV for example) to help you get used to it.

Try a different type of mask. Discuss with your healthcare professional whether an alternate type of mask such as nasal pillows that does not cover much of your face, would be an acceptable option. This kind of mask sits at the nostrils, so it does not cover the complete nose or mouth, and some people find it easier to accept as it is less obtrusive.

Try using a full-face mask if you're not doing so already. Sometimes chronic nasal allergies or other nasal problems such as a deviated septum, make breathing through your nose a constant problem. A full face mask, which allows mouth breathing during the night, could be the answer.

Speak to your healthcare professional about a nasal decongestant. Nasal allergies and congestion may result in 'mouth breathing' during the night, which dries the throat and mouth. Using a nasal decongestant or antihistamine may reduce nasal congestion, eliminating the need to mouth breathe.

It could be fitted incorrectly. When air is leaking from the mask from the bridge of your nose, eyes, and/or your lips, it can affect the quality of treatment you are receiving. Re-fit the mask using the fitting instructions in your mask user guide or click here and select your mask to see the fitting video.

Your mask could be the wrong size or type for you. When air is leaking from the mask it can affect the quality of therapy you are receiving. If you can only get a good seal by tightening the mask until it is uncomfortable, you may have the wrong type of mask for you or the wrong sized mask. ResMed offers a variety of mask types that may suit you more than others. Visit your accredited outlet to view ResMed's range and/or to be re-fitted with a correct size.

It could be worn out. If you have had your mask for some years, it could be worn out and in need of replacement. Visit your accredited outlet or click here to view ResMed's complete range of masks.

You may have an incorrectly fitted mask. You shouldn't over-tighten your mask, so if you can only get a good seal by over-tightening the headgear, you could have the wrong sized cushion or an incorrectly adjusted forehead support. If you are using a ResMed mask with a MicroFit™ Dial, it is important to note that your healthcare professional has set the dial at the optimal position for you, and adjusting it away from that position may cause discomfort.

It is always best to fit the mask while in your regular sleeping position. That's because facial muscles change when we lie down and further relax once we are asleep. If you sleep in a bed with no pillows, fit your mask like that. Or if you sleep in a recliner, fit your mask that way.

Try re-fitting the mask. Facial marking and pressure sores may be the result of a poorly fitting mask. ResMed masks are designed to be worn loosely and comfortably. We recommend that you re-fit the mask using the fitting instructions in your mask user guide or click here and select your mask to see the fitting video.

Try using a skin protection barrier. Skin protection barriers like the Gecko TM Nasal Pad could help create a comfortable barrier between sensitive skin and your mask. Visit your accredited outlet or click here to find out more about ResMed's Gecko Nasal Pad.

Try a different sized mask. If you can only get a good seal by tightening the mask until it is uncomfortable, then you may have the wrong sized mask. Visit your accredited outlet to be re-fitted with the correct size.

Try a different type of mask. If your mask still feels uncomfortable, you may require another type of mask. ResMed offers a variety of mask types and you will find that some masks suit you more than others. Visit your accredited outlet or click here to view ResMed’s complete range of masks.

Try re-fitting the mask. Eye irritation is often caused by air leaks from the mask. Ensure the mask is sealing well around the nose and cheeks and not leaking into the eyes. We recommend that you re-fit the mask using the fitting instructions in your mask user guide or click here to select your mask and see the applicable fitting video.

Try a different sized mask. If you can only get a good seal by tightening the mask until it is uncomfortable, then you may have the wrong sized mask. Visit your accredited outlet to be re-fitted with the correct size.

Try a different type of mask. If your mask still feels uncomfortable, you may require another type of mask. ResMed offers a variety of mask types and you will find that some masks suit you more than others. Visit your accredited outlet or click here to view ResMed's complete range of masks.

Avoid facial treatments just before using your mask. Do not apply any facial creams or moisturisers to your face just before using the mask, as this may cause a reaction.

The mask may be dirty or need replacing. Ensure that your mask is clean and also wash your face with warm water every night, and completely dry your face before putting on your mask. Note that cleaning instructions are provided in the user guide that accompanies your mask.

Try adjusting the headgear. Excessive tightening where the headgear meets the frame is the most likely cause of skin irritation on the face. Adjust the headgear for a better and looser fit, striking a balance between minimising any potential leaks and not having it on too tight.

Try lowering the temperature on your humidifier. If you use a humidifier, you might experience a heat rash if the temperature setting is a little too high, especially in warmer weather.

Low probability of allergic reaction. ResMed mask cushions are made from silicone, which is a hypoallergenic material used in medical appliances and devices. True allergic reactions to silicone are extremely rare, and skin irritation is most likely caused by other factors.