Reviewed + Fact Checked by Dr. Pranav Kukreja, April 22, 2021
If you suffer from sleep apnea, I’m sure you’ve heard about sleep apnea therapy before. Maybe you’ve already tried wearing different masks to help you breathe easier and reduce your apnea episodes.
But as relieving as CPAP masks are, you find them annoying to wear, so you just tuck them inside your drawers, gathering dust. You still haven’t found the right CPAP or BiPAP mask that’s both efficient and comfortable to wear.
The truth is, you’re not alone. Studies show that about half of people prescribed with CPAP machines stopped using them within 1 to 3 weeks due to discomfort and inconvenience. Many patients refuse to wear the mask because they find it big, bulky, and obtrusive. But, evidence suggests that use of CPAP for longer than 6 hours decreases sleepiness, improves daily functioning, and restores memory to normal levels.
So, is there a CPAP mask out there that takes your comfort into consideration?
Check out our reviews and discover why it’s our top pick for the most comfortable CPAP mask out there.
| CPAP Masks for Side Sleepers | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
Philips Respironics Nuance Pro |
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ResMed Swift FX |
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Fisher and Paykel Opus 360 |
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DreamWear Nasal Fit-Pack |
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AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow |
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Respironics Wisp Nasal Mask |
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Respironics Comfort Gel Blue Full Face Mask and Headgear |
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1. Philips Respironics Nuance Pro
Philips Respironics Nuance Pro
If you’re tired of wearing an uncomfortable mask that squashes your nose, then the unrivalled coziness of the Philips Respironics Nuance Pro is worth taking a look at.
The big thing that separates it from other CPAP masks is its gel nasal pillows. In fact, this is the first ever gel pillow mask ever made.
So, what’s the big deal with gel pillow technology?
The gel pillow cushion provides a cozy seal around your nose, making you feel comfortable while wearing the mask. The cushion is soft, mushy, and flexible, but still strong.
And while the Philips Respironics Nuance Pro has an ultra-lightweight frame, the materials used in making this product is top quality. It also includes a top-grade headgear, which stays attached to your head even while you toss and turn as you sleep.
You also have the freedom to pick between a gel or fabric frame. A gel frame offers comfort, but if you want more flexibility, then then the fabric frame should do the trick.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Superb Seal
- Quiet
- Offers 100% clear field of vision
Cons
- Can’t tweak for a more personalized fit
- Limited pivot degree
2. ResMed Swift FX
ResMed Swift FX
For users who wanted a super lightweight mask that makes you forget that you’re wearing one, the ResMed Swift FX is a superb option.
The soft nose piece is a nasal pillow that fits snugly into your nostrils. It’s made out of superior quality materials, such as silicone and gel pads, which provide top-notch comfort.
You don’t have to worry about the hose connection even if you’re a side sleeper since its connection to the nasal pillow is strong and stable. ResMed also customized this mask for side sleepers by providing ear loops that won’t budge no matter what position you assume.
It also features a soft and flexible headgear which allows you to move freely while sleeping. The multiple cushion sizes of this mask also guarantee great quality rest.
Its simplicity is one of the reasons why many people opt to buy the ResMed Swift FX. Nothing fancy and nothing confusing – it just works.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Made of durable materials
- Outstanding seal on the mask
- Easy to use
- Easy to adjust
Cons
- Might require frequent adjustments
- Possible headgear discoloration
- No over-the-head interface
3. Fisher and Paykel Opus 360
Fisher and Paykel Opus 360
Looking for a CPAP mask that gives you 360 degrees of free movement? Then the Fisher & Paykel Opus 360 is definitely for you.
With the tube connected to the nasal pillow in the ballpoint, you can easily anchor the mask above your head and on the side of your face and straight down. It’s easier to sleep freely in whatever position you like without worrying about getting the tubes disconnected.
It also features advanced air diffusion that directs your exhaled air away from you so that you can sleeping without any interruptions and in any comfortable position you want.
The seal feels very relaxed and the pillows are soft but sturdy. It’s also lightweight, which is perfect for users who travel a lot.
The Fisher and Paykel Opus 360 comes in three sizes, giving you more options for a good fit. It also has a unique shape and design that perfectly fit your facial contours.
Pros
- 360-degree pivot
- Unique shape and design
- High-quality silicone pillows
- Extreme comfort with no top-lip troubles
- Advanced air diffusion technology
Cons
- Not the best-looking CPAP mask aesthetically
- Some seal leakage reported
- Doesn’t fit well with some users
4. DreamWear Nasal Fit-Pack
DreamWear Nasal Fit-Pack
With the DreamWear Nasal-Fit Pack, comfort is king.
Designed to be extremely light, the DreamWear Nasal Fit-Pack has a minimal contact design that allows you to experience maximum comfort.
The mask conforms perfectly around your face and nose, but the fabric only loosely touches your face. The actual air tube connection is located on top of the head, so it won’t get in your way. This means that you don’t have to worry about any red marks due to fit of the mask once you wake up.
And even if you’re lying on one side and the tube partly collapses, you can still expect sufficient air to go through the other side and feed both nostrils.
Getting proper airflow despite sleeping on the side is why many people are raving about this mask.
Plus, the DreamWear Nasal Fit-Pack comes in four cushion sizes: small, medium, medium-wide, and large. The interchangeable headgears come in different sizes as well.
Pros
- Extreme level of comfort
- Light and travel-friendly
- Silky soft tubes
- Affordable price
- Easy fit
- Interchangeable headgears
Cons
- Seal leakage may occur
- Dual vents produce more noise
- Cleaning and drying can be quite tricky
5. AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow
AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow
Designed by the reputable ResMed company, the AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow offers incredible comfort and unbeatable quietness level.
Compared to the ResMed Swift FX, this mask is 50% quieter and lighter. You won’t only be able to experience great CPAP therapy, but also enjoy uninterrupted sleep.
But what makes it one of the quietest masks out there?
It’s simply because of its well-designed woven mesh vents that efficiently reduce air noise by gently directing exhaled air away from you and your partner.
The mask comes with a flexible, non-detachable short tube that allows you to sleep on your side without any worries. It also has an elastic headgear that you can easily tighten and loosen up as you wish, making it a breeze to slide on and off.
The AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow comes in three sizes.
Pros
- One of the quietest CPAP masks in the market
- Elastic headgear
- Easy to use
- Remarkable comfort
- Excellent seal
Cons
- Headgear stretches within a few months
- Quite expensive
6. Respironics Wisp Nasal Mask
Respironics Wisp Nasal Mask
Designed for minimalists, the Respironics Wisp Nasal Mask is perfect for side sleepers who want a small, lightweight, comfortable, and easy-to-use mask.
The design doesn’t obstruct your vision, so you can keep reading and watching TV without having to worry about the tubes getting disconnected. You can also move around your bed while you sleep and it won’t be an issue.
You also get to pick your own frame. You can either choose the fabric option or the clear plastic one. If you’re a side sleeper, then it’s recommended that you choose the fabric option since they are more soft and flexible.
But don’t be deceived by its minimalistic design since it still offers maximum sleep therapy treatment. It’s great for users who want an efficient CPAP therapy mask but don’t want to make any significant sacrifices in comfort.
Pros
- Excellent minimal design
- Two frames to choose from
- Easy to wear
- Unobstructed vision
- Great comfort
Cons
- Some sizes may not fit to certain users
- Seal quality issues
7. Respironics Comfort Gel Blue Full Face Mask and Headgear
Respironics Comfort Gel Blue Full Face Mask and Headgear
Full face masks are seldom recommended for side sleepers, so what’s a full face mask doing in our buying guide?
The Respironics Comfort Gel Blue Full Face Mask is included in our list because of its swivel base forehead designed to provide maximum comfort all night.
Also, it’s a CPAP elbow that offers a 360-degree range of free movement. You have the freedom to sleep in whatever position you like without experiencing restrictions.
It has an outstanding ComfortGel technology that offers unparalleled comfort each night you slip it on. It also includes clips into the silicon comfort flap, which effectively adds the experience of the incredible fitting.
And since it uses silicone flaps, the cushions are well-protected and suffer less from wear and tear. At the same time, it also provides exceptional seal so that you get the full benefits of CPAP therapy.
And did we mention that it has quick release tabs that can be easily disconnected once you rise up and get off from your bed.
The Respironics Comfort Gel Blue Full Face Mask offers incredible fit, comfort, and flexibility, that’s why it merits a spot in our list.
Pros
- High-quality silicone flaps
- Excellent fit
- Maximum comfort
- 360-degree pivot
- Offers full-face mask advantage
Cons
- Pricier compared to nasal masks
- Only has one color available (blue)
- A bit bulky
What to Consider in Buying a CPAP Mask
We’ve already given you seven options for the best CPAP masks for side sleepers. But choosing from all these masks can still get confusing.
What features do you really need? Which design best suits you? How do you even know which best fits you?
To help you answer those questions, here are some important factors you need to consider when buying a CPAP mask:
Comfort and Flexibility
Since you often sleep on your side, it’s advisable that you choose a mask that received high ratings in comfort.
Choose products that are slender, flexible, and lightweight. These should give you the best chance of enjoying an uninterrupted sleep at night.
Shape
Your ears take a lot of pressure when you sleep on your side. That’s why it’s vital that you find a mask that has a lot less going on around the side of your head.
Take note that the less structure of the mask you are pressed up against, the more you’ll be able to forget that you’re wearing one.
Less Bulk
If you like to sleep on your side, then it’s necessary that you choose a mask that’s not bulky. A full face mask may not be the best option for side sleepers.
Conclusion
Being a side sleeper is not really an issue when it comes to CPAP treatment. There are multitudes of products you can find in the market today that cater to side sleepers. What’s really important is that you get to choose something that works for you.
Before you buy any CPAP masks, make sure that you consider several factors such as your budget, comfort, size, portability, and sleeping position. Remember that not all products are the same. Your objective is to find a mask that helps you achieve the best quality of sleep every night.
If you’re still having trouble finding the best CPAP mask, then it’s recommended that you seek advice from your friends, family, or even health professionals who specialize in sleep apnea. They should be able to provide you useful tips and guidelines on how to choose the appropriate mask for you.
A few more facts regarding nasal masks (with or without chin straps):
- Level of overall satisfaction is much higher for the patient/user.
- Measured degree of apnoea – much more improvement with nasal masks. Therefore these are most effective.
- Leak is much lesser in nasal masks
- Nasal masks are easier to fit and keep in place.
