The Best CPAP Mask Cushions
For those of us who have trouble breathing at night, continuous positive airway pressure therapy, or CPAP, can literally be a lifesaver. But while being hooked up to a CPAP machine helps with sleep apnea, sleeping comfortably with a face mask on takes a bit of getting used to. That's why you and your doctor should work together to find the right type of CPAP mask for you based on your breathing style, face shape, and other factors. And once you've got a mask that fits, the next step is choosing the perfect cushion. Whether you are looking for a low profile option or just the tightest seal possible, we've selected our favorite mask cushions available today to help you breathe and sleep more comfortably.
ResMed Airfit F20 Cushion
Same comfort, less cost
When we first transition to sleeping with a CPAP mask, we quickly learn how important it is to have a backup cushion. But unless you’ve got an insider contact at your particular CPAP company, you’re going to have to pay a lot out of pocket to get a few backups when you need them. Thankfully, you can order the same great quality mask cushions online for less cost and faster shipping time. With the ResMed Airfit F20 cushion, for example, you can have the same comfortable silicone fit without leakage or an overly tight fit. But because the silicone is quite thin, we recommend doing a little more nighttime preparation — namely removing excess oils on your skin that may damage the material over time.
Pros:
- Super easy to clean
- Soft, pliable silicone
- Fast shipping time
Cons:
- May not clip into some CPAP masks
ResMed AirTouch F20 Cushion
Let everything flow
The right CPAP mask cushion needs to be functional, comfortable, and compatible with your skin type. And while silicone cushions provide a tight seal and are easy to clean, the silicone material can irritate some people’s faces. If you’ve got sensitive skin that needs a bit more looking after, then try a cushion with a softer seal like the ResMed AirTouch F20 cushion. The memory foam adapts to the contours of your face, giving you a more comfortable sleeping experience. At the same time, the cushion has breathable edges that allow heat and moisture to escape naturally without building up on your skin. Just make sure to be careful with the foam itself as it can be quite fragile, which is why we suggest cleaning it only with an alcohol wipe.
Pros:
- Available in sizes S, M, and L
- Light, spongy surface feels comfortable on the face
- No leaking
Cons:
- Higher cost
- Foam doesn’t last long
Phillips Respironics DreamWear Full Face Cushion
Breathe without the bother
Wearing a mask on your face with a hose sticking out of it is not exactly the textbook definition of a comfortable night’s sleep, especially if you tend to be a sleeper who tosses and turns through the night. That’s why we love this low-profile mask cushion by Phillips Respironics. Designed to accommodate people who breathe using their mouths at night, this full-face cushion covers the mouth and nose without being too bulky and annoying to wear. Unlike other full-face options, you don’t need to wear a chin strap that interferes with your facial hair or have a mask that sits and puts pressure on the bridge of your nose. And because the hose attaches at the top of the head instead of at the mouth, you can roll over all you want without interrupting your airflow.
Pros:
- Works with high pressures
- Comfortable nose interface
- Great cost value
Cons:
- Can have slight leaks through the night
Phillips Respironics DreamWear Nasal Cushion
Right under your nose
Though full-face CPAP masks do a great job pumping air into both your nasal and oral passages, some of us don’t actually want that much face contact when we’re dozing. And, thankfully, if you tend to breathe through your nose at night, you may have another option. Nasal pillows or cushions like this light silicone option by Phillips Respironics offer streamlined air pressure directly into your nose without obstructing your vision. So if you like to read or watch TV at night before drifting off to sleep, then this cushion is the way to go. Additionally, because you don’t need a large sealing area or a chin strap with this type of mask, nasal cushions are also a great option for people with facial hair.
Pros:
- Quiet usage
- Soft, flexible silicone constructions
- Versatile with most sleep positions
Cons:
- High-pressure settings may cause leaks
Phillips Respironics ComfortGel Blue Cushion
A flexible fit
If you wear a CPAP mask at night then you know firsthand how annoying leaks can be. Not only will you be losing the pressure you need, but you’ll also likely be woken up by the sound of whooshing air. That’s why finding a well-fitting mask is so important. And when it comes to a good fit, few mask cushions feel as good as the gel cushion. In addition to its compatibility with most nasal masks, this Phillips Respironics cushion molds itself to the shape of your face, making it feel like it was made just for you. And because it’s part of a nasal mask, you’ll have much less obstruction while you sleep as compared to full-face alternatives.
Pros:
- Fits perfectly with most CPAP nasal masks
- Gel gets softer over time
- Cheaper alternative than going through insurance
Cons:
- Cushion may have a slight smell upon unboxing
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what size mask cushion to order?
If you’re looking to replace an original mask cushion but can’t speak to your doctor, then you can use the sizing guide associated with your mask of choice. Simply print the guide out as a PDF in 100% “Fit to Page” format, and use the guide in a mirror to find your perfect size. And if you order the wrong one, you may be able to return it for a smaller or larger size after you try it.
How do I clean my mask cushion?
Most CPAP mask cushions need to be cleaned daily to make sure you’re not breathing in any bacteria while you sleep. If you’ve got a silicone or gel mask, you can wash it in warm, soapy water. On the other hand, if you’ve got a memory foam mask, we recommend using an alcohol wipe to clear off residue instead, as water can degrade the foam quicker.