If you hear air escaping, feel air blowing into your eyes, or wake up with dry mouth, your CPAP mask may be leaking. Mask leaks are very common, especially during the first weeks of therapy, and are usually easy to fix once the cause is identified.
This guide walks you through the most frequent reasons for CPAP leaks and how to solve them step by step.
Why CPAP Mask Leaks Matter
Even small leaks can:
• Reduce therapy pressure effectiveness
• Disturb sleep with noise or airflow
• Cause dry eyes or skin irritation
• Increase therapy discomfort
• Affect sleep data accuracy
A good seal improves both comfort and treatment quality.
Step One: Check Mask Position First
Before adjusting straps, check positioning.
• Place the mask gently on your face
• Start the CPAP machine airflow
• Allow the cushion to inflate naturally
• Adjust only small areas where leaks occur
Many leaks happen because the mask is sitting slightly too high or too low.
Step Two: Fit the Mask While Lying Down
Masks often seal differently when you lie down.
• Lie in your usual sleeping position
• Turn onto your side if you normally side sleep
• Recheck seal after moving your head
Facial muscles relax during sleep, which changes how the cushion sits.
Step Three: Avoid Over Tightening
A very common mistake is tightening straps too much.
Over tightening can:
• Distort the cushion shape
• Create new leak points
• Cause pressure marks
The air pressure should create the seal, not strap force.
Step Four: Confirm the Correct Mask Size
Wrong sizing is a major cause of leaks.
On every CPAP mask product page on our store, you will find the official manufacturer sizing guide at the bottom of the description section. Always check the sizing template before assuming adjustment is the problem.
Signs of incorrect size include:
• Leaks near the eyes
• Mask sliding during sleep
• Need to overtighten straps
Step Five: Inspect Mask Assembly
Leaks may appear after cleaning if parts are not reassembled correctly.
Check:
• Cushion fully clicked into frame
• Elbow connector seated properly
• Tubing connection secure
• Valves positioned correctly
Even small misalignments can cause airflow escape.
Step Six: Clean Your Mask Regularly
Skin oils reduce cushion grip.
Daily cleaning helps maintain the seal:
• Wash cushion with mild soap and warm water
• Rinse thoroughly
• Allow to air dry completely
Avoid alcohol or harsh cleaning products.
Step Seven: Replace Worn Components
CPAP mask materials naturally wear over time.
Replace parts if you notice:
• Cushion feels soft or slippery
• Headgear stretches easily
• Increased tightening needed
• Persistent leaks despite adjustment
Often only the cushion or headgear needs replacing rather than the entire mask.
Step Eight: Consider the Wrong Mask Type
If leaks continue despite correct sizing and adjustment, the mask style may not suit your sleep habits.
Examples:
• Mouth breathing may require a full face mask
• Active sleepers may benefit from nasal pillows
• Side sleepers may prefer minimal contact designs
Changing mask design can dramatically improve comfort.
Quick CPAP Leak Checklist
Before replacing your mask, check:
• Correct size using sizing guide
• Mask fitted while lying down
• Straps not overtightened
• Cushion clean
• Components assembled correctly
• Parts not worn out
Final Thoughts
CPAP leaks are frustrating but rarely permanent problems. Most issues are caused by sizing, positioning or normal wear and can be corrected with small adjustments.
A properly sealed mask should feel comfortable, quiet and stable throughout the night, allowing your therapy to work effectively and helping you achieve better sleep.