CPAP product reviews and other helpful tips for CPAP users!

We get it!  Finding a CPAP mask that fits perfectly is not easy. There are hundreds of masks out there - too many to choose from. So, where do you start? Finding the right Sleep Apnea mask is crucial to your therapy compliance because it can limit the effectiveness of your treatment. Keep the goal in mind through this process - CPAP therapy will eliminate Apneas and offer restorative sleep for a healthier you. 

So we asked some of the clinicians here at CPAPmachines.ca to list their favourite (and best-reviewed) masks for side-sleepers. Let's provide you with some direction while you navigate and find a comfortable mask you can tolerate therapy on and in your preferred sleeping positions.  So without further adieu, let's get started. 

The Top Sleep Apnea Masks For Side-Sleepers

AirFit P10 by ResMed

First on the list, the AirFit P10. The P10 is a pillow-style CPAP mask where the nasal pillows are inserted into the nostrils. Though small, the P10 checks a lot of boxes. 

According to ResMed, this mask was designed to deliver 40 minutes more sleep per night compared to its predecessor which is the Swift FX. It's known for being ultra-lightweight, providing minimal contact and being unobtrusive. It's easy to put on, take off, easy to adjust and the air ports make this mask quieter than others. 

 

Eson 2

Next, the Eson 2 by Fisher & Paykel. It's a nasal mask, which means the cushion goes around the nose and has a T-frame and a strap over the forehead. This Sleep Apnea mask is excellent at overcoming movements through the night, minimizes air leakage thanks to its RollFit seal and the intuitive headgear offers stability and comfortability. It is arguably one of the most comfortable CPAP nasal masks on the market and an excellent choice for side sleepers.

AirFit F30

Finally, this sleek AirFit F30 is the newest mask on our list.  This mask is a full face option - covering the nose and the mouth. The unique, uber light re-design coined this mask for the next generation in CPAP mask technology. 

It features an innovative low cushion profile for clear sightlines and a secure seal. It also comes in a one-size-fits-all headgear for comfort and security. The F30 is highly rated amongst users sleeping in all positions and would be beneficial for side sleepers.  

Which CPAP Mask Should I Choose?

Our recommendations have worked well for many CPAP users. Note that the best mask for anyone and in any sleeping position is one that is most comfortable for each individual facial characteristics. What works for someone, may not work for another. 

Any mask will shift if you toss and turn enough and will cause leakage.  It is not uncommon for CPAP users to try a few styles before they find one that is suitable for them. We hope our CPAP masks for side-sleepers offered some insight for your shopping needs while you find your perfect fit.

A sincere thank you to our patrons who provided their honest feedback on the CPAP masks. Your reviews and feedback truly help others to make informed decisions. We can all agree online shopping poses some challenges - the biggest one is the inability to try a mask for sizing. 

The team here at CPAPmachines.ca has compiled a list of best of best thus far for 2019! Read our Top-10 list of best selling CPAP masks with their average star rating out of 5 by verified buyers. The goal is to help customers make informed decisions about products they're looking at purchasing. We'd like to remind everyone that fit, size, comfort and wear-ability are subjective to each individual person. 

Our best of the best top rated list is below starting with #10.. Make your way down the list to see what the current #1 selling CPAP masks for 2019 is!

Top CPAP Masks Of 2019: As Voted By You

#10: Dreamwear Full Face by Philips Respironics 

Score: 4.5/5

   

A new addition to the Dreamwear family, the Dreamwear Full Face by Philips Respironics offers an innovative, comfortable design and more freedom of movement. Its ability to easily adapt to a wide range of sleeping positions has been a plus for many CPAP mask users. 

#9: Mirage Activa™ LT by ResMed

Score: 5/5

 

If you hate fussing with your CPAP mask every night, then the Mirage Activa™ LT by ResMed was made for you. Comfortable, easy-fit and 100% hassle-free this is the perfect mask for restless sleepers.

#8: AirFit™ F10 by ResMed

Score: 4.9/5

This ResMed CPAP mask offers the same level of comfort and reliability that this brand has become known for. The AirFit™ F10 offers a new, improved slimmed-down design that has delighted many of its users.

#7: Dreamwear Gel by ResMed

Score: 4.7/5

At 7th place on the top best selling CPAP masks for 2019 list is the Dreamwear Gel by ResMed. 

This fit pack mask has a remarkable design that aims to make sleep as comfortable as possible for patients. Users of this mask can sleep in every position imaginable thanks to the clever positioning of the mask’s tubing.

#6: Mirage Quattro™ Full Face CPAP Mask by ResMed

Score: 4.7/5

Want whisper-quiet performance? Then the Mirage Quattro™ Full Face mask is a great option. Considered as the industry standard for sleep apnea masks, ResMed has come out on top again with this streamlined designed mask. Easy to use and comfortable...a winning combination.

#5: Wisp Nasal Mask by Philips Respironics 

Score: 5/5

The Wisp mask by Philips Respironics delivers the performance and comfort that you deserve. This leading mask offers an elegant aesthetic design of a pillow mask while providing the high-quality performance of a nasal mask. No surprise why you rated this mask a 5 out of 5.

#4: AirFit™ N20 by ResMed

Score: 3.9

The AirFit™N20 by ResMed is one of the brand’s most adaptive mask designs to date. It comfortably moves with you while you sleep and features InfinitySeal™ cushion technology providing you with a reliable seal all night.

#3: AirFit™ F30 by ResMed

Score: 3.9

The third best selling mask of 2019 is the AirFit™ F30 by ResMed. This minimal- contact, full face CPAP mask reduces irritation, noise and red marks thanks to its modern design. Designed to cover less of your face, many patients are loving the comfort this mask provides.

#2: AirFit™ N30i by ResMed

Score: 4.6

ResMed’s first tube-up nasal cradle mask makes starting CPAP therapy easy. It features a QuickFit elastic headgear that easily slips on and adjusts to different profiles providing the first-time fit straight out of the package. It’s curved nasal cradle cushion allows for a stable, comfortable seal throughout the night.

#1: AirFit™ P10 by ResMed

Score: 4.7

The AirFit™ P10 by ResMed is the number 1 best selling CPAP mask of 2019 as voted by you. As CPAP masks go, this is undeniably ResMed’s quietest mask to date. Offering premium comfort, this mask provides ease of use without compromising on stability. The mask is equipped with a dual-wall nasal pillow and innovative Flexi-tube design. The AirFit™ P10 will give you unobtrusive, comfortable sleep.

The CPAP manufacturer, ResMed is out with a brand new full-face CPAP mask that many are calling "ground-breaking" and a “game-changer”! The AirFit™ F30 launched first across Canada in late 2018. It will be available in the United States and other select countries in 2019.  The F30 is the little brother to the super-popular AirFit™ F20 and ResMed is putting a lot of faith in this Sleep Apnea mask - and for good reasons.

   

The F30 lower profile CPAP mask is not just smaller, it’s completely redesigned. It sits lower on the face, with an ultra-compact nasal cushion that covers just the tip of the nose to the bottom lip. The cushion style claims to provide a secure fit and a perfect seal. 

Forget the days of clunky masks that go from your chin to the bridge of your nose, blocking your view and leaving you with irritation, straplines and redness in the morning.  The soft, flexible frame and buttery-soft nasal padding keep your nose from getting squished as you sleep.   

     

Finally, a mask made for sleepers in all positions.

Hate wearing your CPAP because you love sleeping on your stomach? Not to worry, Resmed just came out with the latest AirFit series, the AirFit N30i Nasal CPAP Mask. Is this a nasal or nasal pillow mask, you ask? Resmed introduces it as a Nasal Cradle Mask. Instead of covering your entire nose like a traditional nasal mask, the AirFit N30i sits discreetly under your nose and not in it as the average nasal pillows mask. The tube connector is designed to be on the top of your head which provides freedom for users to sleep in many positions. Since the nasal cradle cushion sits comfortably under the nose rather than over the nasal bridge, this mask is designed for side or stomach sleepers. 

Let us answer some of your FAQs! 

How many sizes does it come in? 

The AirFit N30i comes in two different size starter pack, the Small and the Standard. Most of our female clientele use the small size whereas the male population fits into the standard size. Both sizes are sold as fitpacks coming with small, medium and small-wide nasal cradles cushions.  There's an option of purchasing a medium-wide cushion separately if you require additional sizing.   

How stable is the mask? 

The AirFit N30i SpringFit frame is designed to be very stable and create a personalized fit. The nasal cradle is slightly curved so that it follows the natural curve of your nose tip for a perfect fit. You can also adjust the back strap to make sure the mask does not move around at night. 

Is it going to irritate or leave marks on my cheeks? 

You can use the soft wraps included in the package to cover the sides, which creates a barrier between the silicone and your cheeks to provide extra comfort. The soft wraps will also prevent you from waking up with those stubborn marks on your cheeks as well!

How do I buy this mask? 

Great question! The AirFit N30i is available across Canada in CPAP retailers or online for the best value.  Place your order on our website CPAPmachines.ca and see if free this mask qualifies for free shipping for your order. 

Our CPAPmachines.ca team has always been asked the same question repeatedly, “Can I use my CPAP machine to get more air during the day?”  The answer is NO! CPAP therapy doesn’t give you more air, it only provides the user with pressurized air to maintain an open airway. Thus, using the CPAP during the daytime would not give you better air. However, we live by the promise that when you have a problem, we will find you a solution. So, let us proudly introduce to you our latest addition to our product family, the O2 Curve - Personal Anti-Pollution Filtration Mask. 

Did you know that Canadians invented the first gas mask to protect soldiers from chemical warfare in WWI? With a similar idea, O2 Canada developed an everyday air pollution mask that people from the most deadly particles not visible to the human eye. The reusable personal anti-pollution filtration mask is designed specifically for daily use. It is great for athletes that exercise outdoors, population that suffers from nasal allergies, people who live in an air-polluted area as well as CPAP users who wish to breathe in better air throughout the day! But I must remind you that this mask is a non-CPAP related product. It is a new wearable technology that could improve the quality of your everyday life. 

First, let’s take a look at the design! 

With the ability to change up the shell colour; you can match your O2 Curve with every outfit you choose. Not only is the O2 Curve trendy and fashionable; it also works just as well as an N95 mask.  

So, let’s talk about how the filter actually works! 

           

With the breathable filtration technology; you can choose between two highly effective filters. The Commuter Filters and the Competitors Filters. These electrostatic filters trap mechanical pollutants found in pollution as well as bacteria and diseases. And how do they do that? Well, these filters are charged with pockets of both negative and positive ions, which attract, trap and neutralize small particles. The Commuter Filters and designed for everyday wear whereas the Competitors Filters are made for those who exercise outdoor and need a more breathable filter. 

And the best of all? 

The O2 Curve is available NOW on CPAPmachines.ca. Send your special someone this blog and give them a hint on what you want for this holiday season! Happy Shopping!

There is a stigma when people think of full face CPAP masks. Many think they're ugly, bulky, intrusive and the thought of wearing one to bed sounds impossible. However, full face masks are the Holy Grail for many CPAP users; they are designed with specific features and benefits that have made them a go-to mask for millions in the CPAP community. 

How Does A Full Face Mask Differ From Other CPAP Masks?

So, what makes a full face CPAP mask different than the others? A full-face mask covers the nose and the mouth -  like an oxygen mask you might see a fighter pilot wear, but nicer - with straps that are worn over the head with headgear holding it in place. It sounds uncomfortable, but they've made them pretty form-fitting and soft now.

By highlighting the pros of full face masks and giving it a well-deserved spotlight, we hope to break the stigma of how the general public feels about this often demonized and incredibly well-designed CPAP mask.

 

Advantages Of A Full Face Mask For CPAP Therapy

Below is a list of the top advantages that we feel CPAP users will receive by choosing a full face CPAP mask over other styles. 

1) It's stable & secure: Full face masks tend to be a bit larger, heavier and have more material (straps and thicker headgear) than, say, a nasal pillow style mask. These CPAP  masks cover more of the face which results in better pressure when compared to their nasal or nasal pillow style counterparts. It is an excellent choice for restless or back sleepers - the straps tighten well and offer support to keep their masks in place in different positions at night. 

2) Mouth breathers or nasal obstructions: Full face-style masks are an excellent choice for natural mouth breathers or those who suffer from nasal obstruction or congestion. This style of a mask allows you to get the Sleep Apnea therapy you require either breathing through your mouth or nose. This is also a great style of mask for those who suffer from cold or flu symptoms. No need to lose good sleep, when your nose is stuffed and you need it the most. 

3) Tolerable with higher CPAP pressures: Full face CPAP masks cover more of the face, therefore allowing high pressures to be more tolerable by CPAP users.  The full face mask offers more surface area for the air to move around before entering the airways making the pressure less direct and more comfortable. These masks are beneficial for restless sleepers and popular with users who like to sleep on their backs. 

4) Facial hair:  Got a beard? This style of CPAP mask is popular with users who have facial hair, specifically those who sport a full mustache or a thicker beard. Facial hair can prevent a good seal because the cushion cannot grip the face properly, resulting in leaks and a frustrated user. The full-face style fits tightly around the nasal bridge and the chin providing a better air seal. 

While there are many notable benefits of a full face-style mask, it is not for everyone. All full face masks are not made equal and manufacturers use various materials that may work for one person and not the next. Remember to do your research, ask questions and try on a sample if possible.  Spend at least as much time trying on CPAP masks as you would buying a new pair of jeans! 

Our Best Selling Full Face Masks at CPAPMachines.ca

Here are our top 3, best selling full face CPAP masks. Click on each one to see the design features of each popular full-face style and feel free to comment on your own experience and which full face mask works for you. 

AirFit F20 CPAP Mask

The ResMed AirFit F20 CPAP Mask is a full-face style mask that is considered as being the brand’s most adaptive mask styles. Offering a soft and flexible headgear frame and a reliable seal with InfinitySeal technology, this mask is ideal no matter what your preferred sleeping position is. Many CPAP users have praised this mask for its comfort, reliability and durability. 

Fisher & Paykel Simplus Full Face Mask

The Simplus full face CPAP mask by Fisher & Paykel offers a new convenient design that is aimed at helping you find the perfect fit. With an interchangeable cushion and a built-in air diffuser, you can rest assured knowing that you will get a restful night’s sleep when using this CPAP mask. 

ResMed Mirage Quattro Face Mask

Another best selling full-face mask is the ResMed Mirage Quattro CPAP mask. Offering streamlined design and whisper-quiet performance, this mask is easy to use and offers great comfort levels to CPAP users. With over 20 different ways to adjust forehead support, this has long been a favourite with our loyal customers. 

While they may be given a bad reputation by some, these CPAP masks are anything but effective when it comes to treating Sleep Apnea. If you are interested in purchasing a full face mask, feel free to get in touch with our CPAP equipment experts who will be happy to guide you to the mask that will suit you best.

Whether you're new to CPAP therapy or a seasoned vet, we can all agree: finding the perfect mask isn't easy!  Short of having plastic surgery to fit into one of the hundreds of generic masks out there, you're probably going to have to try on a few before you find one that fits your face comfortably.  Today, we've lined up our favourite CPAP masks and some best sellers that are $100 or less.

AirFit™ P10 & P10 For Her CPAP Masks (Fitpack), $97.98

This super-light and sleek CPAP mask is made by Resmed and may be one of the quietest masks on the market. The AirFit™ P10 has a Standard and a "For Her" version, each with various size nasal pillows. The Standard version has blue and grey headgear and comes with small, medium and large size cushions. The For Her version has soft pink and grey headgear and comes with extra small, small and medium-size cushions. The exhalation port, designed with QuietAir woven-mesh vent system minimizes any disturbances to your bed partners.

Dreamwear & Dreamwear Gel CPAP Masks (Fitpack), $97.98

Made by Philips Respironics, the Dreamwear and Dreamwear Gel masks have a unique frame design. Air flows through a flexible silicone frame that sits across your face and airflow to the main tubing is connected from the crown of your head. This design has a claim to support various sleeping positions - side, back or stomach for comfort. This mask comes with a standard size frame (additional size frames sold separately) and 3 or 4 size nasal cushions in the package (depending on which Dreamwear) for easy fitting. 

AirFit™ N10 & N10 For Her CPAP Masks, $94.98 

The AirFit™ N10 series, manufactured by Resmed has garnered a huge fan base. It's a nasal style (around the nose) mask with an under-eye frame that improves sightlines (for reading/watching TV) and provides comfort and wear-ability with their SpringAir™ cushion.  The head straps are significantly slimmer with SoftEdge™ technology to provide excellent stability throughout the night. The Standard AirFit™ N10 comes with a standard size headgear in classic blue and a choice of small, standard and wide sizes. The For Her version is equipped with small headgear and only one small size nasal cushion finished in soft pink. 

Mirage Activa™ LT Nasal CPAP Mask, $94.98

Also by Resmed, the Mirage Activa™ LT has been on the CPAP scene for quite some time as the successor of the original Mirage Activa™. The revamped MicroFit dial provides a more secure fit along the forehead and dual-wall cushion makes it a favourite among many CPAP users. The Mirage Activa™ comes in 4 sizes-small, medium, large and large-wide and performs comfortably - even for restless sleepers. 

Meridian CPAP Mask, $79.98

Last, but certainly not least, the Meridian nasal mask by Resmed is the lowest priced CPAP mask on our list. It's one of Resmed's longstanding classics; a simple nasal mask providing effective treatment. The headgear features 3 fastening points for easy on-and-off maneuvering and a 360-degree swivel elbow to allow a range of movement for users. The cushion is fitted with a silicone pad that contours the face with minimal leakage. Though it comes in small, medium and large, finding your size can be challenging - and with so much new mask technology coming out every few months, many CPAP vendors have stopped stocking this oldie but a goodie.  

While many CPAP users tend to push their mask's lifespan to over a year, it's recommended we replace our CPAP masks every 6 to 8 months, as your mask can get gross and its materials begin to break down.   We hope this list helps you find a well-fitting and budget-friendly mask that'll bring you a restful night's sleep.

If you're shopping for a CPAP machine, this blog post is a great place to start. Treating your Sleep Apnea can significantly improve your quality of sleep because life is too short to be tired all the time. To avoid unnecessary stress and buyer's remorse, follow these 5 suggestions to help make your CPAP shopping experience an educated and positive one.  

1. See A Doctor

Before you shell out a bunch of money, make sure you actually need a CPAP machine.  See your physician get a proper diagnosis. Your diagnosis will likely involve a sleep test and based on those results, your doctor will write you a proper CPAP prescription. The prescription will identify:

• What type of Sleep Apnea you have (eg. Obstructive Sleep Apnea or Central Sleep Apnea).
• The CPAP pressure or pressure range you require (prescribed in cmH20).
• What type of CPAP machine is required to treat your Apnea (CPAP, APAP, BiPAP, VPAP etc).

2. Do Your Research

Read and learn as much as you can about Sleep Apnea; the types of treatments available, what type of funding is available from your healthcare system, private insurance policies and how to qualify for them.  Identify popular CPAP brands and the newest CPAP models available. Research different styles and sizes of masks and read up-to-date product reviews on the products you are interested in. Make a list to help you narrow down your search. Arming yourself with knowledge about CPAP helps make informed treatment and buying decisions.

3. Visit Your Local CPAP Vendor

Whether you decide to purchase your CPAP machine in-store or online, visit your local CPAP vendor and browse through displays of various machine and mask selection. Take advantage of the ability to physically see, touch and test features of the potential products you are buying. Ask questions and utilize sales associates for their expertise. Ask for a demonstration to check for the noise level of a machine or to try on a CPAP mask to make sure the fit is right for you.

4. Do A CPAP Trial

Most CPAP vendors offer a 2-4 week trial period, allowing you to rent a CPAP machine and try out the therapy in your own home (for a nominal fee). This trial is tremendously helpful because it allows you to learn how the therapy works, how the equipment functions and what features the best help you adapt to your therapy. You will also quickly learn if a mask is fitting right -- you may switch a few times until you find a suitable face mask that is comfortable for you. At the end of the trial period, you'll have a better idea of purchasing a particular CPAP machine is right for you.

5. Set A Budget

In Canada, CPAP machines often range from $500 - $3000.  The more you are willing to pay the wider range of options: machines, masks, accessories, warranty and aftercare service provided by your CPAP vendor.  But paying more for some bells and whistles doesn't always get you better treatment.  Setting a reasonable budget helps narrow down must-haves and accessories you can forgo.

TIP: Opt for a good quality CPAP main unit with good reviews and take a pass on the travel battery until you have more experience with your starter package.  

Follow our 5 suggestions when you're ready to make a CPAP purchase and you'll have a stress-free buying experience.