CPAP Parts and Supplies

Key Takeaways

• CPAP consists of three parts: a machine that pressurizes air to a specific rate, a hose that carries the air, and a mask that connects to the hose and delivers pressurized air into the breathing passages.
• There are three main types of masks to accommodate different preferences. Nasal masks cover the nose, nasal pillow masks rest beneath the nostrils, and oronasal (full-face) masks cover both the nose and mouth.
• Optional accessories like humidifiers, chin straps, and CPAP pillows can improve comfort to help you use your CPAP equipment more consistently and fully benefit from the treatment.
• You can purchase CPAP equipment from online retailers, manufacturers, or durable medical equipment (DME) sellers who work with insurance companies.

CPAP Machine Parts

There are three main parts that make up a CPAP machine: a motor, a CPAP hose, and a CPAP mask.

Motor

The motor draws in air from the surrounding room and pressurizes it according to your CPAP prescription requirements. Since bedroom air is usually room temperature, some machines feature a humidifier to moisturize the air and make it more comfortable to breathe in and out. The motor also includes a CPAP filter to remove impurities from the air. Motors on most machines run quietly, and will not usually interrupt sleep.

CPAP Hose

The connective hose, also known as tubing, connects the CPAP machine to the mask. CPAP hoses come in different lengths, which can help accommodate your sleeping style or bedroom setup. Some CPAP hoses are heated or insulated in order to reduce the condensation build up.

CPAP Mask

The CPAP mask connects to the hose and delivers pressurized air from your CPAP machine into your airway. It’s important to make sure that your mask is compatible with the type of CPAP machine you intend to use and that it is sized correctly. Most CPAP masks fall into one of three main categories.

• Nasal CPAP mask: These masks rest on the bridge of your nose like a pair of glasses and cover either part or all of your nose. They deliver pressurized air into the nostrils, and are secured to your face with straps. 
• Nasal pillow CPAP mask: The smallest and lightest of the major CPAP mask types, nasal pillow masks cover only the nostrils and are secured with a strap around your head. They’re relatively lightweight and leave most of your face uncovered, so it’s easy to watch TV or read while wearing them. 
• Full-face CPAP mask: Also called an oronasal mask, this type of mask covers your nose and mouth, and is the largest of the major mask types. It seals against the bottom half of your face and is the only major type of mask that delivers pressurized air through the mouth. This makes it a good pick for people who breathe through their mouth or have nasal congestion.

CPAP Mask Parts

CPAP masks consist of several different parts that attach together. Each component serves a different function, and has its own replacement schedule to follow. 

Frame

The frame is the central support for the mask that holds all of the other components in place. Deterioration or poor fit can lead to leaks and discomfort, so be sure to size the frame correctly. The frame is typically replaced as part of the complete mask assembly every 3 to 6 months.

Cushion or Pillow

The cushion or pillow is the part of the mask that seals around your nose and/or mouth to deliver pressurized air. Most mask cushions are made of silicone, memory foam, or other soft, adaptive materials to minimize skin irritation. Replace cushions and pillows monthly, or more frequently if they show signs of wear.

Headgear

Headgear secures the CPAP mask to your face, often using elastic or adjustable straps that wrap around the head and attach to the mask with VELCRO® or magnetic strips. Replace every 6 months. 

Elbow

The elbow connects the mask to the hose during CPAP therapy. These parts are solid but flexible in order to allow for ease of movement during treatment. The elbow is replaced as part of the complete mask, usually every 3 to 6 months.

Other CPAP Parts and Supplies

In addition to the core parts of your CPAP setup, smaller supplies and parts like air filters and humidifiers are also integral to your obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) treatment. 

Air Filter

The CPAP filter is important for purifying the air entering your CPAP machine. There are several types of air filters. Some are reusable, while others are disposable. They vary by the size of the particles they filter. You can choose your CPAP filter based on the type of CPAP machine you have and the needs of your lifestyle, such as having pets in the home that may add to dust and other allergens in the air.

Humidifier

The humidifier is an optional CPAP machine part that increases the moisture of the air delivered through the mask. Many CPAP users complain of dry mouth and dry nose while using their CPAP machines. The CPAP humidifier can help reduce this problem, especially in cold, dry areas.

CPAP humidifiers consist of a water tank that connects to the machine, and may be integrated into the device or removable. Many humidifiers are adjustable by increasing the temperature of the water tank.

 

Optional CPAP Accessories

Additional accessories for your CPAP machine may help improve your comfort during treatment. Since the effectiveness of CPAP therapy depends on consistent use of your machine, it’s worth taking the steps to make it a pleasant experience. 

Chin Strap

Chin straps are used to keep the mouth closed during CPAP treatment. You may find a chin strap helpful if you breathe through your mouth when sleeping.

CPAP Mask Liners

Mask liners provide a soft layer between your face and the mask to help absorb oils and moisture from the skin and prevent irritation. These are especially useful for patients with sensitive skin.

CPAP Pillow

Not to be confused with CPAP nasal pillows, CPAP pillows are special pillows designed to help you sleep while wearing a CPAP mask. They have special shapes, often with cutouts to keep the hose from snagging or bending and prevent the pillow from pushing against your mask. Side sleepers in particular can benefit from CPAP pillows.

CPAP Battery

Buying an external battery for your CPAP machine allows you to travel without forgoing CPAP treatment. Those who travel often, especially by plane, should consider investing in one – though it’s important to note that not all CPAP machines are compatible with external batteries.

CPAP Cleaning Supplies

Regular cleaning of your CPAP machine is essential to prevent bacteria buildup and technical problems. In most cases, simple household cleaning supplies work for cleaning your CPAP equipment, but some manufacturers sell wipes, sprays, and brushes to make the task easier.

Cleaning and Maintaining CPAP Machine Parts and Supplies

Most of the CPAP supplies above are made of plastic, rubber, and/or silicone. The cumulative effects of moisture on your CPAP equipment will damage these materials and lead to bacterial and mold buildup. Although CPAP machine parts aren’t designed to last forever and will need to be replaced over time, proper maintenance maximizes their lifespan and performance.

You should clean your CPAP machine parts after every night’s use. Follow specific cleaning instructions for each component, which can usually be found in the device’s user manual. 

There are also CPAP cleaner machines that can help to keep your equipment sanitized and ready to use. Some of these machines sanitize CPAP equipment by using activated oxygen or ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, but these devices have been linked to potential health risks and the U.S. Food & Drug Administration has not cleared or authorized any of them for household use.

Replacing your CPAP supplies should be done in conjunction with the manufacturer's instructions. You can find the recommended replacement products for your CPAP in the manual. Many replacement parts are interchangeable between CPAP units, but some CPAP replacement products are specific to certain machines.

Finding the Right CPAP Machine Supplies

Once you have a prescription for your CPAP equipment, you will need to find the CPAP machine parts that will work for you. Top CPAP supplies manufacturers include:

• Philips Respironics
• ResMed, DeVilbiss
• Fisher & Paykel
• Viasys
• Puritan Bennett
• Apex Medical
• CareFusion

These suppliers also offer portable CPAP machines and parts that can be easily transported in small bags for extra convenience.

Sleep Doctor sells a wide variety of CPAP products including CPAP machines, masks, and other accessories. By shopping online, you can compare prices and features from different manufacturers. Sleep Doctor also offers personalized guidance to help you make the best selections for your needs. 

In addition to buying CPAP parts online, you can also make your purchase in-person at a brick-and-mortar location. This may be a more helpful option if you want to try different mask sizes or talk to a sales representative about the differences between different types of CPAP equipment. CPAP homecare companies and DME providers often have wide selections of CPAP supplies for you to view and try out.

The bottom line is that the more comfortable you are with your CPAP equipment, the more likely you will be to continue your CPAP therapy and benefit from it. CPAP users are encouraged to stay up-to-date on new CPAP machines, machine parts, and cleaning supplies, and to talk to their doctor if their current CPAP setup is not comfortable.