CPAP product reviews and other helpful tips for CPAP users!

Buying the perfect CPAP mask isn’t easy. A lot of times, you might think you’ve picked the right one, then you take it home and find it sucks. It happens. More often than you think, actually. Masks are made to fit the average face, but that doesn’t mean they’re always a perfect fit. But with a little bit of research and some insider information, not only can you find yourself the best fitting mask, you might be able to return that ill-fitting one you can’t bear to wear another night.

 Do plenty of research

There are 3 general styles of CPAP mask. Which style mask did you get? Nasal pillow? Nasal mask? Full face mask? Each one of them caters to a specific type of sleep position and facial structure. So, for example, if you’re a side or stomach sleeper, you probably won’t be too comfortable in a full face mask. If you haven’t already, click here for a description of the different styles of masks.

Go back to your CPAP store/provider 

Armed with some knowledge and a list of questions you now have, go back to your CPAP provider and ask to see if they can exchange it for you. Make sure you follow each CPAP vendor’s exchange policy as they all have various timeframes for exchanges (standard is about a month). Be prepared: some sellers won’t take it back if the mask has been used or the packaging has been opened. (But between us, if you make a good enough case, they might bend that rule. Just remember to be polite and not lose your cool).

Ask a lot of questions

This is a major purchase. If you’re the kind of shopper that asks a million questions about the cheese you’re about to buy, why wouldn’t you be extra curious about something you’ll be wearing for a third of your life?! Ask which mask style is best for your sleeping position, and ask to try on a bunch of them before you decide. Wear it for a while. Try lying down with it. Does it smush your face? How does it compare to other masks? A lot of people expect to try on a mask and have it fit like an old pair of slippers - this will likely never happen. What you’re looking for is a mask that feels the most comfortable to you compared to other masks. Remember: CPAP masks are made to be as unobtrusive as possible, but that doesn’t mean they’re fun to wear.

Does the clinician know what they're talking about?

A good CPAP Clinician is a God-send! These people are professionals, but a good, patient one is a keeper. A knowledgeable clinician can tell you all the pros and cons of any given masks and let you try them on and test them out.

Returns & exchanges

It's important to note, if you’re buying your mask online, KNOW WHAT YOU WANT BEFORE YOU ORDER. Online stores can offer deep discounts - especially on masks. But a lot of them don’t accept returns or exchanges. You want to shop online for a deal - when you already know which mask is best for you, or if you’re replacing a mask that you’ve already used and love.

Get loads of recommendations 

If you have friends and family who are on CPAP, ask them what they like. There’s nothing better than asking someone who’s already gone through the process and learned a thing or two. Look into that recommendation while you shop and see if those masks are right for you. The process can take a bit of work, but anything good in life requires some heavy lifting. Just know that at the end of the process, you've learned so much more about CPAP masks and more importantly you'll be much more successful with therapy and sleeping.

Educate yourself

There is a wealth of information online waiting to be tapped. Read reviews on CPAP blogs and forums where people share their experience based on their own differences: machine pressure, if they have facial hair, have a big nose or sleep on their sides. Watch YouTube videos on product and user reviews that can guide you in making the right selection. Once you know which style may work for you, you can narrow down your search. We recommend looking for newer masks compared to ones that may be out for a couple of years. Technology is improving masks by the day and the newer ones are being designed with better materials that fix a lot of comfort and performance issues.

And when you find something that works - stick it with! Consider buying one or two back-ups. Because you never know when a mask will be discontinued. Sleep tight!

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.

Okay, CPAP mask-shoppers, we get it!  Shopping for a mask isn't easy. Not only are there a ton of options out there, but it's also hard to tell some of them apart.  

Take the two top-of-the-line masks out there:  The Dreamwear CPAP mask and the AirFit N30i.  Philips Respironics makes the much-loved Dreamwear mask, which has been on the market for over a year now, while ResMed released the AirFit N30i in the spring of 2019.  At first glance, both these masks look almost identical. So just how different are they? Not much.

AirFit N30i vs Dreamwear: The Similarities

Let's start with the similarities that you will notice most between these two CPAP masks. Here is our list of the features that you’ll find on both masks:

• Both feature a hollow frame for even distribution of air.
• Both offer a removable top hose connection, something most masks don't have.
• Both have soft sleeve frame inserts that make the mask more comfortable and reduce those pesky lines on your face in the morning.
• Both have adjustable velcro headgear, though it's important to mention the Dreamwear has some sticky texture on the headgear to better grip fine hair or bald users while the N30i does not.
• Both offer 'fit packs' with different size cushions to better fit your face.
• Both have air vents in the front of the cushion to remove expired air while the N30i also has expired air vents by the swivel top connector.
• Both offer some versatility allowing you to switch out the cradle style cushion to use nasal pillows. 

So far, they're both pretty similar, right?  Not so fast. Let's break down some of the major differences between both masks.

Main Differences Between These CPAP Mask Models

Connection Port

Though both masks have a removable connector port, they operate quite differently. For the Dreamwear, the plastic port detaches from the rubber frame by pulling the two pieces apart. You can then reconnect them by simply snapping them back together. 

The port on the AirFit N30i, however, swivels and has more of a ‘pinch & remove’ quick release system.   

Both are simple enough and let you detach from your CPAP when nature calls, but the 'pinch & remove' version may be a little easier to use.

Frame Design 

When it comes to frame design, the Dreamwear offers a smooth jelly hollow frame that is available in small, medium and large sizes. So, adaptable to all shapes and sizes. On the other hand, the ResMed N30i frame is only available in a size small and medium but has a stretchy, accordion-like SpringFit portion for flexibility, comfort and ease of sizing. 

Cushion Material

Cushion material is an important aspect of CPAP masks to consider especially when it comes to comfort. Between the N30i and the Dreamwear, we noticed the following differences between cushion material: 

• The exterior of the Dreamwear cushions is jelly-like, soft, malleable and flexible. This material is excellent for side sleepers and it won't press the mask against your face or the pillow because of the softness of the cushion.
• The exterior cushion of the N30i is made of hard plastic. If you tap the cushion, you feel and hear the hardness of the shell. This rigid exterior of the cushion may cause issues for users in certain side positions which can cause the mask to dig into your face while you sleep. 

Cushion Sizing 

Finally, the last difference we found between the Dreamwear CPAP mask and the ResMed AirFit N30i was cushion sizing. Both Dreamwear and N30i offers 4 size cushions.

• The Dreamwear mask comes with 4 cushions included: small, medium, medium-wide and large
• The N30i comes with small, small-wide and medium-size cushions in the package. The N30i wide cushion is sold separately. 

As you can see, tons of similarities, but also many differences.

AirFit N30i vs Dreamwear Review: The Verdict 

So, which mask is superior, the Dreamwear or the N30i?  There is no simple answer. It truly comes down to personal experience and what features are most important to you as the user.  After our comparison, the Dreamwear wins for comfort with its soft exterior and it's grippy texture on the headgear to keep it in place. However, the N30i gets top marks for the swivel connector and bonus points for the SpringFit frame.  

I guess that makes it a tie?  In our book, each one wins in different categories.  It all comes down to what's important to you.

We hope our comparison review and breakdown helps you make an informed CPAP mask selection.  If you've tried both masks, feel free to chime in and let us know which you prefer.

The folks at Resmed have been busy!  Since late 2018, they've released several new, innovative CPAP masks but one, in particular, has a lot of CPAP users talking.

It's the AirFit™ P30i nasal pillow CPAP mask.  The updated cousin of the  Resmed favourite P10 mask.

Starting at the very top, this mask offers a top-of-the-head hose connector that swivels 360 degrees, ideal if you like to sleep in different positions. This feature allows you the freedom to move in all directions without getting your tubing tangled. The swivel is equipped with expire air vents to remove carbon dioxide and a quick release function minimizes fumbling at night.  Need a midnight bathroom run?  No sweat!   Just pinch to release the mask from the tubing when nature calls.  No need to take off the mask.     

Next, the frame features an accordion-like SpringFit™ frame that's hollow for even distribution of air. The SpringFit™ frame allows the mask to contour to your head while preventing over-tightening.  The technology allows for flexibility, reduces red marks and creates an open line of vision - great if you wear glasses or tend to feel a little claustrophobic in full-face masks.

The mask has fleece wraps to increase comfort and minimizes pesky mask lines. The headgear is plush cloth and is adjusted with Velcro straps on either side. 

• Standard frame - with small, medium and large size pillow cushions
• Small frame - with small and medium-size pillow cushions 

The front of the pillow cushions is equipped with QuietAir vent technology which disperses C02 evenly and quietly. 

The P30i offers some interchangeability. The AirFit™ N30i nasal cushion will fit this mask frame and headgear. Carefully pull the frame and nasal cushion apart, align arrows of cradle cushion and snap in to reconnect (the same way you'd change cushion sizes). 

One thing to remember:   The P30i is NOT compatible with the AirMini.  It does work with all other CPAP, APAP and BiPAP machines, but if you use an AirMini portable machine, you're out of luck when it comes to this mask.

There you have it folks - everything you need to know about the new AirFit P30i nasal pillow CPAP mask.  This mask is already a best seller on cpapmachines.ca.  Pick one up for yourself and let us know what you think in our review section.

If you’ve been diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea, you should either be seeking treatment or on CPAP therapy already. Let me paint you an all too common scenario - you’ve got your machine and mask purchased and after a couple of weeks on therapy, you stop using it. You see it on your bedside table every day but ignore it. Days turn to weeks and weeks turn into months. Sounds familiar? This scenario happens too often.

What happens if you leave your Apnea untreated?

Surprisingly, a couple of nights off your CPAP is actually okay. The benefits of consistent use persist for a couple of days. For example, if you’re travelling or have a cold and took a couple of nights off, you’ll be happy to know that there is still residual benefit when you are not using it for a few days. Continued therapy reduces swelling of soft tissues during sleep making it easier for you to breathe when you are taking a break. However, danger lurks when it’s left long term.

Some would argue you won't die from Sleep Apnea, but like smoking or AIDS - people won't die from it, but likely from the complications that come from smoking or AIDS. Keep reading to find the effects, risks and possible consequences are if you don’t use your CPAP as directed.

Return of common symptoms

Not using your therapy means the return of the classic symptoms  - constant fatigue, low energy, headaches and lethargy. It's only a matter of time these dreaded symptoms will creep back into your day to day life.  It will affect the way you carry out work and social activities and limit your capabilities and negatively impacting your overall quality of life.  

Risk of sudden death

Untreated Sleep Apnea will increase the risk of sudden death or sudden cardiac arrest and the consequences are not reversible. The sudden death is caused by abnormal heart rhythms or arrhythmia which are erratic and disorganized impulses from the heart's ventricles. This means the heart is unable to pump blood and death can occur. 

Risk of premature death

Those who leave their OSA untreated for 10 years or 30 years will lead to shorter lives. Lack of treatment means you'll face more than 3 times the risk of premature death.

Risk of stroke

The low levels of oxygen available to the body and brain and the high blood pressure of the heart working harder put you at 2-3 times higher risk for having a stroke. 

There are endless reasons why doctors prescribe CPAP - they know what they're talking about and it works. No matter how uncomfortable it is, give it a second, third or fourth try. The take-home message here is that untreated OSA produces long term, cumulative exposure to advert effects that is harmful to your health and may cause death.

There are heaping benefits of being on therapy and it shouldn't be ignored. Speak to your health professional for more information or guidance to get the proper care you need to adhere to CPAP therapy.

If you’re researching or shopping for a new CPAP machine, chances are you are either new to CPAP therapy or you’re replacing the one you already have. We’ve said this many times before, CPAP machines these days are packed with incredible technology. But what exactly is this technology? 

CPAP machines have integrated wireless and battery-powered options, Bluetooth capabilities, remote monitoring and reports at your fingertips through apps on your phone. Another technology which we will be focusing on is a technology called Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR) or FLEX which are both features to increase comfort and compliance for all users. 

What exactly is EPR or FLEX? Continue reading as we break down some fancy acronyms and abbreviations. Learn what EPR means and the difference between the types of Flex available as we simplify the terms much as we can. Here we go!

What Is Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR)?

CPAP machines have “comfortable” settings that allow CPAP therapy to mimic your natural breathing pattern as much as possible. ResMed calls this feature EPR while Philips Respironics calls this comfort feature, Flex.

ResMed defines their comfort setting as EPR - Expiratory Pressure Relief. In other words, making it easier for you to exhale or providing a deeper exhale with each breath while on CPAP therapy. For example, your CPAP pressure setting is 10cmH20 with function EPR 3 on...you would be inhaling at 10chH20 and exhaling at a dropped pressure of 7cmH20 and will return to 10cmH20 on the inhale.

There are 4 settings for Expiratory Pressure Relief on a ResMed machine: OFF, Setting 1 = mild comfort (1 cm H20), Setting 2 = medium comfort (2 cm H20), Setting 3 = maximum comfort (3 cm H20).

What Is Flex Technology? 

Philip Respironics calls their comfort setting Flex. Flex comfort feature provides users with pressure relief on various (CPAP, APAP or BiPAP) modes of therapy. There are various types of Flex available. C-Flex, A-Flex, Bi-Flex and C-Flex+.

C-Flex Pressure: Breakdown

C-Flex, identical to EPR on ResMed, lowers pressure during exhalation for users to adjust to CPAP therapy and works on a breath-by-breath basis.  Using the same example from earlier, if your CPAP pressure setting is 10cmH20 with function EPR 3 on...then, you would be inhaling at 10cmH20 and exhaling at a dropped pressure of 7cmH20 and will return to 10cmH20 on the inhale.

C-Flex also has 4 settings for on their machines: OFF, Setting 1 = mild comfort (1 cm H20), Setting 2 = medium comfort (2 cm H20), Setting 3 = maximum comfort (3 cm H20)

Following along so far? Good, let’s keep going.

Bi-Flex Pressure: Breakdown

Bi-Flex works on BiPAP mode and offers pressure relief at both inhalation and exhalation. The Bi-flex setting offers pressure relief at 3 important areas - the transition from exhalation to inhalation, the transition from inhalation to exhalation and during the exhalation.

A-Flex Pressure: Breakdown 

A-Flex works within Auto-CPAP mode. Like C-Flex, A-Flex provides pressure relief at the beginning of exhalation and like Bi-Flex softens transition avoiding spike ups from inhalation to exhalation. It's a smoother and more comfortable feeling. A-Flex mimics your natural breath the most.

C-Flex+ (Plus) Pressure: Breakdown

C-Flex+ (Plus) is a newer setting within the more advanced CPAP machines when in fixed-CPAP mode.  Like C-Flex, C-Flex+ provides pressure relief at the beginning of exhalation. Like A-Flex, C-Flex+ offers a smoother and softer transitioning from inhalation to exhalation providing additional comfort when in fixed-CPAP mode.

If you got a blank stare and feeling a bit confused, we don’t blame you - it can be confusing. The take-home message is Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR) and Flex are both comfort settings available on ResMed and Respironics machines. They come in different modes to ultimately make your adjustment to Sleep Apnea therapy more comfortable by mirroring your most natural breathing patterns possible regardless of your CPAP pressure.

Which Comfort Function Is Best For You And Your CPAP Machine?

Which function is best for you? Ultimately, it comes down to personal comfort and preference. You’ll need to give the functions at various settings a test drive. Some people like EPR and Flex, some don’t use them and others even dislike these comfort settings. These settings may bring on other problems - possibly make your apnea better or worse or the pressure changes may increase your chances of experiencing CPAP mask leaks.

After all, that’s said, many do find the comfort functions helpful. This is the part where we say try it, see what setting works best for you!

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.

ResMed's latest AirSense 10 Series is designed with a humidifier seamlessly integrated called HumidAir. The main unit comes with a standard water chamber, but there is an optional cleanable water tank available for purchase also. 

ResMed has been making 'standard' and 'cleanable' versions of water chambers for quite some time now. Their previous two CPAP models, S9 and S8 Series humidification in H5i and H4i came in both a standard and a cleanable version.

But which one is better? Do I need a cleanable tank? Or will the standard tub suffice? Continue reading to learn the difference between the two CPAP water chambers and to find out which one best suits your needs. 

Standard Water Tank: 

The standard water tank is the one that comes with the original machine purchase. This standard tub opens at the top and has a shell that is made with injection moulded plastic. The standard chamber’s base is made with aluminum and the cover is made with thermoplastic elastomer and is latex-free. The standard HumidAir is meant for single patient use and cannot be disinfected. This version requires hand washing with mild soap and water (it is not dishwasher or washing machine safe) and requires replacing every 6 months. 

Cleanable Water Tank: 

The cleanable water tub is considered an upgrade of the HumidAir water tub. Almost identical to the standard tub, the cleanable is designed to be easily taken apart to be cleaned and snapped back together easily. 

This HumidAir's shell is also made with injection-moulded plastic but provides even more durability than the standard tub. It has a stainless steel base and silicone to seal the water inside the chamber. Though a bit more expensive, this premium water tub has a life span of 2.5 years and is resilient enough for clinical use in hospitals or sleep clinics with various patients and can be disinfected time and time again.

Standard vs Cleanable: Which One Do You Need?

The short answer is the standard HumidAir performs just fine. But what you select depends on your lifestyle, cleaning routine and budget. Do you own a dishwasher? Do you mind paying more upfront for something that will last longer? Or save a few bucks and replace the parts every few months? Ultimately, both ResMed water tubs does the job and does it well. It comes down to personal preference in the material and price of the replacement parts.

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. 

A popular topic we often get asked about is water. Do I have to use distilled water with my CPAP device? What is distilled water?  Can I use tap water? What is the difference between tap water and distilled water? Do I have to use distilled water when I'm travelling? 

It is important to learn the difference between types of water available and what you should use with your CPAP machine. When it comes to using a CPAP humidifier, you need to be using the right cleaning techniques and tools to prolong the life of your CPAP equipment. That includes water type too.

CPAP manufacturer Resmed (who makes AirSense 10 and S9s) recommends filling your water tub with distilled water to maximize the tub's lifespan. Respironics (who makes DreamStation and Remstars) recommends using distilled water in your humidifier to avoid mineral deposit buildup.  

We recommend CPAP users to follow the manufacturer's user manual for the optimal performance of their products.

Types Of Water To Use With Your CPAP Device

First of all, it is good to know what the different types of water that you can use are. There are three main types that we recommend using with your CPAP equipment. These include: 

• Distilled water
• Springwater
• Tap water

Distilled Water

Distilled water is water that has been boiled into vapour in one container and collected back into liquid form in a separate container. This distillation process filters impurities behind when the water evaporates. This removes microbes and minerals like calcium and magnesium. 

As we mentioned above, many CPAP manufacturers such as Resmed and Respironics recommend using distilled water for your CPAP machine for the very reason that it decreases the risks of your CPAP equipment becoming mineralized.

Springwater

Springwater is water filtered naturally (by rocks) and contains minerals. As the name suggests, spring water is derived from an underground formation where water flows naturally to the earth’s surface. Similar to tap water, spring water isn’t necessarily filtered so it will contain microbes and minerals. 

We recommend that you only use spring water in your CPAP machine if your manufacturer has recommended that you do. 

Tap Water

Tap water is water containing solutes like chlorine and fluoride and also contains minerals. Unlike distilled water, tap water is not boiled in order to filter out any impurities. Generally, it is better compared to that of spring water. 

Depending on where you live can also impact the tap water that you use. For example, if you live in a city then you may notice that tap water has higher levels of fluoride than rural areas.

The difference between these three types of water would be the presence of minerals, microbes, organisms or chemicals. In most cases, distilled water is often the preferred option for your CPAP device due to the decreased presence of minerals and chemicals.

Tap Water & Your CPAP Device

As mentioned previously, if your CPAP manual says to use distilled water, stick with distilled water. Water in other forms can mineralize, harden, discolour and scale your water chamber with time.  

That being said, we have seen CPAP users use tap water - it decreases their product's lifespan and increases the frequency they need to replace their tubs. Make note of your water chamber's life span and replace as recommended by the user's guide. 

What Water To Use With Your CPAP Machine When Travelling 

A key consideration when travelling is the quality of water. If you don't trust the water supply, don't use the water in your CPAP machine. Find access to a drug store or a pharmacy where you can purchase distilled water. 

Using distilled water in these instances will minimize your exposure to any risks to both your health and your CPAP equipment. Some CPAP users temporarily use bottled water until they find distilled water.

Finally, if accessing safe water is an issue when on the road, consider forgoing the usage of your humidifier until you get back home.

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.