How to fit a CPAP mask: from managing leaks to choosing the right size

If you’re looking to improve your mask’s fit, the free myAir app is a good place to start. It contains step-by-step fitting videos and tips, dedicated to different mask types. If you prefer written information, your mask user guide contains complete fitting instructions, or if you’d rather talk to someone, you can ask your medical equipment provider or sleep physician for advice. We’ve also provided fitting templates for some of our most popular masks at the bottom of this page.

Here are four things to keep in mind when fine-tuning your fit:

• Get in the right position. A mask that fits well when you’re sitting up might not fit so well when you’re lying down. That’s because our facial muscles shift when we lie down and relax even more when we’re asleep. When you fit your CPAP mask do your best to lie in your usual sleeping position, whether that’s in a bed with no pillows or on a recliner, lying on your back or curled up on your side.
• Make sure your mask’s the right size. Your headgear straps should be adjusted evenly and tightened to offer a comfortable seal. If you can only get a good seal by tightening the mask until it’s uncomfortable, you may have the wrong size. Over-tightening your straps can also result in mask leaks so it’s important to resolve this issue. Check the fitting guide for your mask to make sure you’re using the right cushion size and, if necessary, get in touch with your equipment supplier or sleep specialist to request a mask re-fit session. Please note that sizing can differ between mask designs.
• Keep on top of mask maintenance. You might be confident you have the right mask size but feel that your headgear strap is too loose or too tight. Just like clothes that are worn frequently, CPAP headgear can get worn and baggy. Fortunately, you can usually save money and reduce waste by buying spare parts instead of a whole new mask. Check out the wide range of replacement CPAP mask components in our online shop.
• Try not to tinker with forehead support settings. If your CPAP mask has an adjustment dial on the forehead support, your clinician will have set it at the optimal position. Making significant adjustments to the dial setting will change the fit and might result in discomfort or less effective treatment.

If your mask is fitted properly but still feels uncomfortable, why not try a different type of mask? ResMed offers masks in three categories – Minimalist, Freedom and Versatile Fit – that have been chosen to reflect both your needs and sleep habits. You can learn about different mask options and view our complete range here.

It’s important not to over-tighten your mask – it should not feel uncomfortable. If you need to over-tighten your mask to obtain a good seal, you might have the wrong size, worn-out mask components or an incorrectly adjusted forehead support. Please refer to the first question for suggestions on identifying and resolving problems with fit, and the second question for information on replacing old or worn-out components.

Many of our masks have a printable sizing template. Simply print out the template and hold it to your face to identify a cushion size that should suit you. Click on the links to download sizing templates for the following masks.

Please note the following when using these templates:

• Read the directions on the templates carefully before cutting and using them.
• Mask sizing templates should be used to aid in the fitting of masks. The use of these templates is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional, sleep technician or equipment supplier.
• Altering the size or dimensions of the original PDFs in any way may compromise the quality and accuracy of these template printouts. To avoid this problem, ensure you are printing at the actual size by turning off all page scaling in your printer settings. You may also refer to the ruler within the printout to ensure the printout is the accurate size.