[Equipment] How often do you replace silicone mask cushion?

[JoeyWallaby]

I've been using an N20 for over a month now, I had very little leakage when I first started using it but now I'm getting some leakage... so maybe caused by it wearing down? I have a spare cushion so I'll try a new cushion tonight.

[Big Guy]

I'm using an AirFit F20 FFM. I try to get 3-4 months use out of it, before I get out a new one. 

Some might think of me as cheap. I prefer the term economically minded. 

[SarcasticDave94]

My F20 longevity is measured in months for the AirFit silicone. Memory foam AirTouch won't be wearing out anytime soon sitting on the shelf. When the AirFit has a problem in contributing to leaks, it's time to swap cushions. My N/P30i? Same but since it's not used much, I'm not sure how long they'll last.

[JoeyWallaby]

Seems to be very personal and depends a lot on what mask you're using... I'll use the new cushion tonight to compare leakage.

[JoeyWallaby]

Feeling the month old vs new cushion, there is a big difference   I sometimes use moisturizer (no petroleum products) before bed... maybe the silicone doesn't like that? 

[70sSanO]

With my old Quattro FX cushion I would go a year or so. I don‘t use a humidifier so I’d wash it every couple of weeks.

I’m a little over 2 months on my F20 cushion. I’ll probably change it out every 3-4 months. I wash it weekly.

I store my mask in one of those blue Resmed cloth bags during the day. I started doing this a number of years ago to cut down on UV rays yellowing the cushion. Not sure if it adds any longevity.

John

[mesenteria]

I began using my own N20 25 months ago.  If yours is not split anywhere, still has its shape and returns to it upon deformation manually, and has no noticeable discolouration, I would say there's nothing wrong with it.  Instead, look to the way your headgear straps are doing what they are meant to do.  First, I would clean it under warm-to-hot water and dish detergent, rinse a couple of times thoroughly, squeeze it dry using a clean dish towel, and let it air dry on a countertop.  It might shrink back to its original/close-to-original length.

But do fiddle with the fit.

Another possibility is that, as you've grown accustomed to the therapy, and have begun to accrue some benefits, you are now sleeping somewhat differently.  Maybe you are displacing the mask with the way you lay your head.