NightlyCalm.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
A CPAP mask that smells bad can make therapy uncomfortable — and sometimes impossible. Whether you’re noticing a plastic smell, chemical odor, musty scent, or sweat smell, most CPAP mask odors have simple, quick fixes.
This guide explains the most common CPAP mask smells and how to eliminate them fast.
Related CPAP Guides:
Common CPAP Mask Odors
You may notice:
New plastic or silicone smell
Chemical smell from manufacturing residue
Musty or moldy smell from moisture buildup
Sweat or skin oil smell from daily use
Old silicone smell from worn-out cushions
Each one has a different cause — but all are easy to fix.
1. Wash the Mask Daily With Mild Soap
Most CPAP odors come from skin oils that build up on the cushion.
Fix: Wash the cushion every morning using mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water.
Avoid scented soaps — they leave behind residue that can irritate the skin.
2. Let the Mask Air-Dry Completely
A damp cushion or frame often leads to that musty smell.
Fix: Place the pieces on a clean towel in open air.
Don’t dry inside a cabinet, drawer, or bag — moisture will linger.
3. Use CPAP Mask Wipes Between Washes
If sweat or oils build up during the night, mask wipes help keep cushions fresh.
4. Check the Humidifier and Hose
Sometimes the smell isn’t coming from the mask at all — it’s coming through the hose.
Signs include:
Musty smell
Damp smell
Sour or mildew odor
Fix:
Empty and dry the humidifier daily
Replace water before every use
Clean and fully dry the hose
Related: Stopping CPAP Rainout
5. Replace Old or Worn-Out Cushions
Silicone naturally absorbs odors over time.
If your mask still smells after washing, the cushion is probably worn out.
Fix: Replace cushions every 1–3 months.
Brand-new masks can smell like plastic or silicone.
This is normal and fades quickly.
Fix: Wash once, then let the mask sit out for 24 hours.
7. Avoid Harsh Cleaners or Scented Products
Strong cleaners can make the smell worse and damage silicone.
Avoid:
Alcohol
Vinegar
Bleach
Scented detergents
Baby wipes
Use only mild, CPAP-safe cleaning methods.
8. Replace the CPAP Filter Regularly
A dirty filter can cause a stale, dusty, or old-air smell, which appears to come through your mask.
Fix: Replace filters every 2–4 weeks.
9. Optional: Sanitize the Mask
If you’re recovering from a cold or want an extra-clean feeling:
Use UV sanitizers
Use non-ozone devices only
(ozone cleaners can damage silicone)
Quick Summary: How to Fix CPAP Mask Odors
Wash the mask daily
Let parts fully air-dry
Use wipes between washes
Clean the humidifier and hose
Replace old cushions
Let new masks “off-gas”
Replace CPAP filters regularly
Avoid harsh or scented cleaners
Final Thoughts
CPAP mask odors are annoying — but the fix is almost always simple. With daily washing, proper drying, and occasional replacement parts, your CPAP mask will stay clean, fresh, and comfortable.
Explore More CPAP Comfort Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my new CPAP mask smell like plastic?
New CPAP masks often have a temporary plastic or silicone smell from manufacturing. This is harmless and usually fades after a day or two.
How do I get rid of chemical smells from my CPAP mask?
Wash the mask with mild soap, rinse well, and let it air out for 24 hours. Avoid scented soaps, which can make odors worse.
Why does my CPAP mask develop a musty or moldy smell?
A musty smell is almost always caused by moisture buildup inside the mask, hose, or humidifier. Let all components dry fully after washing.
Can worn-out cushions cause bad odors?
Yes. Over time, silicone absorbs oils and develops odors that cannot be washed away. Replacing the cushion fixes this.
How often should I clean my CPAP mask to prevent smells?
Daily cushion cleaning is ideal. Quick wipes between washes help prevent buildup of oils, sweat, and odors.
Can the CPAP machine filter cause strange smells?
Yes. A dirty filter can make the airflow smell stale or dusty. Replacing the filter every 2–4 weeks prevents this.
Do CPAP mask wipes help with odor control?
Yes. Mask wipes remove oils quickly and help keep odor-causing residue from building up between full washes.