Which CPAP Mask is Best for My Sleep Position? | Easy Breathe Explains

Which CPAP Mask is Best for My Sleep Position?

What type of sleeper are you? Are you the yearner, the starfish, the log, the soldier, the free faller, or the fetus? These are the six official sleeping positions, according to sleep experts. To make things simpler, we’re going to break things down into three main categories: side-sleepers, back-sleepers, and stomach-sleepers. 

To get adequate CPAP therapy, it’s essential that your go-to mask fits comfortably and seals properly in your favorite sleeping position. If your mask fits well, then you’ll be able to more easily fall asleep and stay asleep. In this article, we’ll examine popular mask options for each sleeping position.

Side-Sleepers

If you sleep on your side, you’ll want to minimize the number of contact points your mask has with your face. You’ll also want to minimize your mask’s surface area that touches your pillow, because this can cause your mask to dislodge and lose its seal. 

The best type of mask for side-sleepers is a Nasal Pillow Mask. This type of mask has a cushion with nasal prongs that rest in your nostrils, providing extra stability that keeps the mask from shifting out of place. If you tend to breathe through your mouth but want to use a nasal pillow mask, it’s recommended that you use a chinstrap to keep your mouth closed during therapy. You can check out our Chinstrap Buying Guide to learn more about this option. Some key highlights of Nasal Pillow Masks include:

• Minimalist Design: This mask type tends to be very minimalistic so you barely realize you’re wearing a mask when it’s on you.
• Reduced Facial Contact: Nasal pillow masks have less surface area in contact with your face thanks to their minimalist designs.
• Added Stability: The nostril prongs comfortably fit into your nostrils, giving you extra stability as you move around in your sleep.

Below we’ll outline popular Nasal Pillow Masks that are great for side-sleepers.

What Masks Are Recommended For Side-Sleepers?

1. ResMed AirFit P10

ResMed’s AirFit P10 nasal pillow mask is one of the lightest and most comfortable CPAP masks on the market. It’s a great option for side-sleepers to consider! Check out a few of this mask’s top features:

• Simple Design: CPAP users love the P10 due to its lightweight, minimalist design. It’s one of the lightest masks available, weighing in at only 1.6 oz. Additionally, this mask limits the amount of contact with your face, preventing redness and irritation that might otherwise occur.
• QuietAir Technology: A great feature of this mask is it’s QuietAir technology, which is found in the mesh vents on the front of the mask. With this advancement, you’ll get the quiet and restful sleep you want and deserve.
• QuickFit Headgear: The P10 also features a QuickFit headgear which makes wearing your mask much easier and more comfortable. The headgear is made of soft, stretchy material which is ideal for side-sleepers who sleep with the side of their face touching their pillow.

To learn more about this mask, check out our full AirFit P10 Review article on our blog.

2. F&P Brevida

The Fisher & Paykel Brevida nasal pillow mask is a top-rated CPAP mask. Its unique pillow design makes it a great mask candidate for side-sleepers. Some key features include:

• AirPillow Seal: This advanced pillow cushion technology inflates to create a gentle, yet secure seal while you’re sleeping. This added stability is a major plus if you sleep on your side and want to keep your mask in a proper position.
• Adjustable Headgear: The Brevida’s adjustable headgear allows you to get a customized fit that will keep your mask securely positioned. This headgear provides needed structure without compromising comfort.
• Quieting Diffuser: A top feature of the Brevida is its washable diffuser, which reduces noise. This makes for a quieter CPAP experience as your exhaled air will be muffled when it exits your mask.

Back-Sleepers

If you’re a back-sleeper, we have good news! You have the greatest variety of masks from which you can choose. Whether you prefer a full-face, nasal, or nasal pillow mask, we have many great options! Since your face won’t be touching a pillow in this position and airflow is less likely to be obstructed, you can focus on other key features. 

Many CPAP users prioritize comfort and the ease with which they can detach their mask. We have some mask recommendations below that are CPAP-user favorites nationwide.

What Masks Are Recommended For Back-Sleepers?

1. ResMed AirTouch F20

Looking for a top-rated full-face mask? The AirTouch F20 is a popular full-face mask option for CPAP users who sleep on their backs. Here are some of its best features:

• Memory Foam Cushion: The AirTouch F20’s memory foam cushion provides the utmost comfort as it forms to the contours of your face. You’ll get a unique fit and a strong seal to help you sleep more comfortably during CPAP therapy.
• Quick Release Elbow: A top feature of the AirTouch F20 is it’s quick release elbow, which allows you to quickly and easily attach and detach your mask from your tubing during the night.
• Supports a Range of Pressures: This mask is great for all CPAP users, because it can support both high and low CPAP pressure levels. Rest easy knowing you’re getting the exact pressure for your needs with this mask on.

To learn more about this mask, check out our full AirTouch F20 Mask Review article on our blog.

2. Swift FX Bella

If you’re looking for a more minimal mask that’s great for back-sleepers, you should check out the Swift FX Bella. Some of its highlights include: 

• Ear Loops: This mask’s Ear Loop Headgear design comes around the ears, avoiding the back of the head altogether. This is a great mask option for back-sleepers who don’t want a headgear that goes around the circumference of the head.
• Light and Simple: Thanks to its minimal design, this CPAP mask is a favorite among many CPAP users. It features an unobstructive design that makes CPAP therapy less intimidating and more comfortable.
• Minimal Facial Contact: This is a great option for CPAP users who prefer minimal equipment on and around their face. If you get claustrophobic or are prone to mask irritation, this could be a great mask option for you.

Stomach-Sleepers

The last sleeping position we’ll discuss here is stomach-sleeping. If this applies to you, then seek out masks that feature top-of-the-head tubing and have minimal points of facial contact. Reducing the number of contact points your mask has with your face will reduce pressure you feel as you rest your face on your pillow.

Additionally top-tubing is ideal for this sleeping position because it ensures you get adequate airflow during therapy. Below we have some recommendations for great masks that utilize top-tubing technology.

1. DreamWear Gel Pillows

If you’re looking for a minimalistic mask option, the DreamWear Gel Pillows could be a great choice. Here are some of its features:

• Gel Nasal Pillows: The pillow portion that goes into your nostrils is made of gel material, providing extra comfort to make your therapy more pleasant. This pillow cushion takes special care to minimize sores and irritations that other masks often cause.
• Soft Collapsible Frame: The DreamWear’s soft frame is quite comfortable when it makes contact with your face. If airflow on one side gets blocked, airflow on the frame’s other side will increase to compensate.
• Tube on Top: One of the best features of this mask is its top-tubing. This allows for extra mobility while sleeping as well as ensures you get adequate air flow even while face-down on your pillow.

2. ResMed AirFit F30i 

Another great option for stomach-sleepers is the ResMed AirFit F30i full-face mask. This mask’s advanced tubing design and cushion shape make it a fan favorite. Here are some reasons CPAP users love this model:

• Top Tubing: The F30i is one of the few full-face masks that features top-of-the-head tubing. Top tubing is a great feature for those who prefer to sleep on their stomachs and want to maintain adequate airflow through their masks.
• Under-the-Nose Cushion: This mask has a unique cushion design that forms a strong seal and prevents red marks on the nasal bridge. You can also comfortably wear glasses, read, or watch TV with this mask on thanks to this cushion design.
• Quick Release Elbow: A great feature of the F30i mask is its quick release elbow, which allows you to quickly connect and disconnect your mask during the night. Whether you’re getting up to use the restroom or grabbing a midnight snack, the quick release makes removing your mask more convenient.

What If I Move Around/Change Positions in my Sleep?

Many people, if not most people, naturally move around and/or switch sleeping positions during the night. Despite this, it’s important to ensure you’re still getting adequate CPAP therapy while sleeping. 

The best CPAP option for any sleeping position is to use an auto-titrating CPAP device such as the ResMed AirSense 10. Auto-titration means the machine can detect and adjust itself to the exact pressure you need on a breath by breath basis. 

If you would like to learn more about the benefits of using the AirSense 10 CPAP, click here to read our AirSense 10 Review article.

Are There Other Products That Can Improve my Mask Fit?

Yes, there definitely are! We carry CPAP comfort products that can help make your therapy experience more enjoyable. Some popular options are…

1. Mask Liners

Mask liners provide you with greater mask comfort and a stronger seal. The mask liner is a soft cloth piece that goes between your mask cushion and your face. We have mask liner options that are compatible with most mask types.

Whether you use a full-face mask or a nasal mask, these mask liners will help keep your mask in place as you change sleeping positions during the night.

2. Mask Strap Covers

Mask Strap Covers are soft velcro covers that go around your mask straps, protecting your face during CPAP therapy. They’re a great option for those who are prone to mask irritations and red marks as a result of wearing a CPAP mask.

Not only will strap covers provide you protection from your CPAP mask, but if you sleep on your side or stomach, they can also relieve pressure points between your face and your pillow.

Any Other Tips?

The last tip we have for maintaining a proper mask fit in any sleeping position is keeping your mask clean! Ideally, you should clean your mask frame, mask cushion, and mask headgear after each use. The easiest and most convenient way to do this is by using a CPAP cleaning machine.

CPAP Cleaners allow you to sanitize your equipment, killing up to 99% of the bacteria and germs that could be on it. To read more about the CPAP cleaning devices we offer, check out our CPAP Cleaners Review article. 

What If I Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call at (866) 564-2252 or chat in on our website. One of our customer service representatives would be happy to help!