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Cushion Change Frequency - Melman - 11-30-2018
I think most of us believe that the recommended replacement intervals for CPAP components are specified to maximize the profits of the suppliers and limitation of liability, not for the benefit of the patients. I've been surprised, however by how long mine have lasted without any problems. I have been using my original AirFit F20 mask and cushion, for example, since early March 2017. The silicone on the cushion is slightly discolored as compared with an unused replacement but it seals as well as when new and may be even more comfortable. The mask frame itself is like new. I'm hardly fanatical about cleaning. I clean the mask and cushion with mild detergent and warm water 2 or 3 time a week and wipe facial oils off the cushion daily with a baby wipe. I've only changed hoses once in the 2 years I've had the Airsesense 10 and that was just because I switched to a heated hose. The Resmed humidifier chambers seem to develop slight leaks after 9 months to a year so I've changed that once. I see no evidence of microbial growth or noticed any odors. I not recommending that everyone go to such long change intervals since our circumstances and equipment may be different. It appears, however, that most if not all of us may realize substantial savings with no risk if we consider longer change intervals.
To keep this simple, how frequently do you change your mask cushions? Any comments are welcome, even if you tell me I'm crazy [img=31x15]file:///C:\Users\mroth\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image002.png[/img]
RE: Cushion Change Frequency - Walla Walla - 11-30-2018
P10 pillows 6 weeks to 2 months. Air touch. 2 months seems to be the average. AirFit I guess when you buy a new mask.
RE: Cushion Change Frequency - SarcasticDave94 - 11-30-2018
FWIW my AirFit F20 cushion was retired at 13 months only because I used the new one while on an overnight in hospital. Old cushion still in very good shape. I personally think the old one seals better with age.
RE: Cushion Change Frequency - Big Guy - 11-30-2018
My Airfit F20 is about 83 days old. I clean it every day with anti-bacterial wipes. It still seals fine from what I can tell. I have a new one in the packaging that was sent to me a few weeks ago.
My used one still looks as good as the new one. I'm hoping to get six months of use out of it before I get the new one out. By then, I should have a few on hand, if my DME sends them as scheduled.
RE: Cushion Change Frequency - OpalRose - 11-30-2018
Nasal pillows, every 4 to 6 weeks.
RE: Cushion Change Frequency - Melman - 11-30-2018
(11-30-2018, 05:59 PM)Big Guy Wrote: My Airfit F20 is about 83 days old. I clean it every day with anti-bacterial wipes. It still seals fine from what I can tell. I have a new one in the packaging that was sent to me a few weeks ago.
My used one still looks as good as the new one. I'm hoping to get six months of use out of it before I get the new one out. By then, I should have a few on hand, if my DME sends them as scheduled.
If your DME is sending them as scheduled I assume you have at least a copay for each. If your changing them out less frequently you may want to change the shipment frequency and save a few $$$. My DME sends nothing automatically. I get a phone call each month and usually disappoint them by saying I don't need anything. The last caller tried to scare me by mentioning risk of infection and asking if my mask and hose had a bad smell, LOL.
RE: Cushion Change Frequency - Sleep2Snore - 11-30-2018
They last a lot longer than they say they do. I got into trouble for using my last Nasal Pillows for over two years, but they were still as good as new.
RE: Cushion Change Frequency - Big Guy - 11-30-2018
(11-30-2018, 07:06 PM)Melman Wrote:(11-30-2018, 05:59 PM)Big Guy Wrote: My Airfit F20 is about 83 days old. I clean it every day with anti-bacterial wipes. It still seals fine from what I can tell. I have a new one in the packaging that was sent to me a few weeks ago.
My used one still looks as good as the new one. I'm hoping to get six months of use out of it before I get the new one out. By then, I should have a few on hand, if my DME sends them as scheduled.
If your DME is sending them as scheduled I assume you have at least a copay for each. If your changing them out less frequently you may want to change the shipment frequency and save a few $$$. My DME sends nothing automatically. I get a phone call each month and usually disappoint them by saying I don't need anything. The last caller tried to scare me by mentioning risk of infection and asking if my mask and hose had a bad smell, LOL.
My DME doesn't call me. They just automatically send me the equipment on schedule. I do have a co-pay, but it's small.
I figure I'll stock up on what is vital. Once I feel it's adequate, I'll call them and advise that I'll let them know what I need.
RE: Cushion Change Frequency - mesenteria - 12-01-2018
(11-30-2018, 02:40 PM)Melman Wrote: ... I'm hardly fanatical about cleaning. I clean the mask and cushion with mild detergent and warm water 2 or 3 time a week and wipe facial oils off the cushion daily with a baby wipe...
I'm even less fanatical. I clean my items about a quarter as often as you, and I'm still using all original items since commencing PAP in December last year. I have changed he filters twice, but they didn't appear to need changing. I did it anyway just...well...'cuz.
RE: Cushion Change Frequency - snorybob - 12-01-2018
Rinse p10 cushion daily. Start to lose a good seal after about 6 weeks, throw away at 8 weeks!
snorybob.