Written by Olivera Jancikin, Content Writer
Editor’s note: The FDA has issued a recall alert for the ResMed AirFit N20, AirFit F30, and AirFit F30i. The reason for the recall is that ResMed is updating the labeling and warnings on these products, as they contain magnets that could interfere with the functioning of certain medical implants or devices, which the FDA warns could cause “serious harm or death.” For more on the recall, you can visit the full statement from the FDA.
If your doctor prescribed CPAP therapy, you might be concerned about how you’ll sleep with it, especially the mask portion. Finding a comfortable CPAP mask can be more of a challenge for side sleepers since their face rests against their pillow.
If this sounds like something you’re experiencing, we are here to help. In this article, we’ll go over the best CPAP masks for side sleepers and their most important details. We’ll also review what to look for in a CPAP mask for side sleepers to help you in your selection process.
Best CPAP Masks for Side Sleepers
- ResMed AirFit N20 – Editor’s Pick
- Philips Respironics DreamWear Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask – Most Comfortable CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers
- ResMed AirFit F30 – Best CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers with an Unobstructed View
- Rio II Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask – Best Budget CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers
- ResMed AirFit F30i – Best CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers with Minimal Facial Contact
Editor’s Pick
ResMed AirFit N20 Nasal CPAP Mask
This full nasal mask provides a secure seal to ensure no leaks happen during the night. The design uses InfinitySeal silicone cushions for maximum comfort while allowing full visibility.
ResMed Score
4.40 / 5
Why the ResMed AirFit N20 Earned Editor’s Pick
The AirFit N20 should work great for side sleepers thanks to its soft, flexible frame and InfinitySeal cushion. These features help the mask stay on even when you switch from one side to the other, helping to ensure the right air pressure setting at all times.
The AirFit N20 is also a nasal mask, and these are generally better for side sleepers since they are more compact than full face masks. Plus, this product’s lightweight design should add to its appeal for side sleeping.
Our Take: The AirFit N20 is a versatile and lightweight nasal mask that should allow you to comfortably sleep on your side.
What We Liked
- Quick-release elbow – The quick-release elbow makes it easier to disconnect without having to take the entire frame off, which means it’s less bothersome when you need to get up in the middle of the night.
- Soft cushion – This mask has an InfinitySeal cushion designed to stay in place so that it doesn’t leak as you move throughout the night. This ensures a steady stream of air pressure for optimal performance.
Potential Drawbacks
- Not for mouth breathers – The AirFit N20 is a nasal mask, which means it’s not going to work if you breathe through your mouth. In this case, you need one specifically made for mouth breathers.
- It has magnets – This mask also utilizes magnets. Unfortunately, these magnets could interfere with some medical devices and implants1, so anyone with these items will want to avoid this product.
Explore our picks for the Best CPAP Masks overall.
Most Comfortable CPAP Mask for Side Sleeper
Philips Respironics DreamWear Full Face CPAP Mask
The Philips Respironics DreamWear nasal mask is lightweight and comfortable to wear as it makes minimal contact with your face. The mask allows a full range of movement and is a good option for various sleeping positions.
Why the DreamWear Earned Most Comfortable CPAP Mask for Side Sleeper
If you’re concerned about comfort as a side sleeper, we think the Philips Respironics DreamWear nasal mask is worth a shot. Nasal pillow masks are the smallest CPAP mask type, making them fantastic for positions other than back sleeping.
The silicone nasal pillows on this mask are soft for comfort but should still give you a secure seal for airflow. Even when you switch to your side, the mask shouldn’t pinch your skin or leave marks on your face.
Our Take: With its compact design, this nasal pillow mask should work well for side sleeping. Plus, the soft design shouldn’t leave you with any red marks.
What We Liked
- Adaptable and comfortable– The DreamWear has a soft headgear, and the elbow swivels freely, allowing you to move more easily when you want to adjust or switch sides.
- Easier to see with it on – This mask comes with a low-profile design that won’t obstruct your view, which means you can freely watch TV or read while wearing it.
Potential Drawbacks
- Silicone might irritate you – This CPAP mask has silicone, and people who are allergic to this material could experience a negative skin reaction from the mask. If you know you have a silicone allergy, it might be best to look for something silicone-free.
- Can be somewhat tricky to clean – This Philips CPAP mask might be a little more challenging to clean. You’re supposed to run water through it, which could make it more difficult to dry and may lead to a musty smell.
Best CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers with an Unobstructed View
ResMed AirFit F30 Full-Face CPAP Mask
The AirFit F30 is lightweight and soft, covering both your mouth and nose. It allows a clear field of vision, which is important for those who like to read in bed.
ResMed Score
5.00 / 5
Why the ResMed AirFit F30 Earned Best CPAP Mask with Unobstructed View for Side Sleepers
If you plan to use your CPAP while doing other activities, such as watching TV in bed, then you’ll probably prefer a CPAP mask that doesn’t obstruct your field of vision. The AirFit F30 is one such mask, designed to have minimal contact with your face with the cushion going under your nose instead of over it.
This way, the mask doesn’t get in your field of view, allowing you to do other things more easily while wearing it. On top of that, it should accommodate those who wear glasses.
Our Take: We know side sleepers are often concerned about CPAP masks leaving marks on their face. This shouldn’t be the case with the AirFit F30 because the UltraCompact cushion provides a secure seal without being too tight.
What We Liked
- More minimal design – The AirFit F30’s unique design includes having the nasal part rest under your nose, which should help prevent red marks and discomfort.
- More suitable for claustrophobic people – This CPAP mask is full-face, but we think it should work well even if you’re a little claustrophobic. The design doesn’t cover as much of your face as traditional full face masks, so you’re unlikely to feel as trapped.
Potential Drawback
- Contains silicone – This mask includes silicone in its construction, which means that people who are sensitive to this material may experience a rash or skin irritation after wearing the F30. In this case, we suggest you go with a silicone-free CPAP mask.
- Still more bully than nasal masks – The F30 CPAP mask is a full face mask, and although it’s not as big as traditional models, it’s still larger than nasal masks. That said, if you’re a side sleeper who is a mouth breather, then this might be a better choice.
Explore our list of the Best Full-Face CPAP Masks.
Best Budget CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers
Rio II Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask
The Rio II nasal pillow is a budget option that’s comfortable to use in different sleeping positions. It’s ergonomically designed, so its small frame doesn’t cut into your skin.
Why the Rio II Earned Best Budget CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers
The good news is that CPAP masks don’t have to be expensive, so budget shoppers can find a quality model for an affordable price, which is especially helpful if they don’t have insurance or limited CPAP coverage. We think the Rio II nasal pillow is a good option for those on the budget looking for a comfortable and reliable CPAP mask.
This product is small and ergonomically designed to provide a secure seal and excellent comfort in all sleeping positions. Its small frame makes it easier to sleep on the side without uncomfortable pinching or red marks.
Our Take: This nasal pillow CPAP mask should accommodate side sleepers well, delivering a comfortable yet secure seal throughout the night.
What We Liked
- The ergonomic design – The Rio II CPAP mask has an ergonomic design and adjustable straps that make it easier to adapt to your face. You only have to adjust it once, and the mask should be set.
- Multiple sizes – You can choose among multiple sizes according to your needs, which we think is an excellent quality that adds to this product’s value.
Potential Drawbacks
- Not for mouth breathers – This mask only covers your nose, so if you breathe through your mouth, you can’t use it.
- The air comes out of the vents – The vents on the side of this nasal pillow have air blowing constantly, which can be distracting if you sleep next to someone as the air may blow in their direction.
ResMed AirFit F30i – Best CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers with Minimal Facial Contact
Rio II Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask
The Rio II nasal pillow is a budget option that’s comfortable to use in different sleeping positions. It’s ergonomically designed, so its small frame doesn’t cut into your skin.
Why the ResMed AirFit F30i Earned Best CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers with Minimal Facial Contact
We think the AirFit F30i is another excellent CPAP mask designed for minimal contact. This is a good option for those who feel a bit claustrophobic when wearing a traditional CPAP mask. In the case of the F30i, the tubing is out of your way, so you can’t see it when you put the mask on.
Only a part of the tubing touches your face, which is why it doesn’t feel as bulky. On top of that, side sleepers should appreciate how easy it is to switch from one side to the other without the mask getting in your way.
Our Take: CPAP masks can be a bit bulky, which is why some people feel claustrophobic when wearing them. We think the AirFit F30i shouldn’t make you feel this way because it fits on your face with minimal facial contact.
What We Liked
- It works for mouth breathers – The ResMed AirFit F30i works for side sleepers who breathe through their mouth as it covers both the mouth and the nose.
- The quick-release elbow – If you want to remove the mask in the middle of the night, you can do this by releasing the quick-release elbow. If you frequently get up at night, this is a helpful feature.
Potential Drawbacks
- It has magnets – The ResMed AirFit F30i has magnets that allow you to remove it easily and quickly. However, these aren’t recommended for people who use certain medical devices and implants.1
- It might get noisy – Some people reported that the mask is noisy at times. Although this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker for everyone, light sleepers might find it difficult to fall asleep.
See the Best CPAP Masks for Mouth-Breathers.
What Is a CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers?
Although CPAP masks aren’t specifically made for side sleepers, these people need to consider whether a particular mask’s design will allow them to sleep comfortably in this position. CPAP masks for side sleepers can include both nasal and mouth masks, though more compact masks are usually better for side sleeping.
What to Look for in a CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers
Size & Fit
Bulky masks can be more challenging to sleep with when your face is against a pillow, which is why smaller, more compact masks are often better for side sleepers.
When it comes to finding a good fit, it’s important to think about how you sleep. Are you an active sleeper, or do you barely move at night? If you do move, you should look for a mask that provides a good fit even when you switch sides.
Learn More: Best CPAP Masks for Women and Best CPAP Masks for Children
Comfort
Comfort is especially important for side sleepers since their masks will come into contact with their pillow more. A CPAP mask can easily dig into your face when you sleep on the side, which is why a softer, more adaptive model can be better.
Also, make sure the tubing of your CPAP mask doesn’t get in the way when you sleep on the side. It should have an elbow or another swivel mechanism that allows it to move out of the way more easily.
Compatibility
You should always make sure your mask of choice is compatible with your CPAP machine. Many machines and machines are compatible with each other, but it’s good to verify this before you purchase anything. Your doctor or sleep specialist can also help you with this, as well as the manufacturer.
Doctor’s Recommendation
Your doctor or sleep specialist will likely recommend a particular mask type based on your CPAP needs, so you’ll want to go with what they suggest. That said, it’s good to let them know of any concerns you have with your sleep style to ensure you get the best experience possible from your CPAP therapy. If you know you have to get a full face mask, for example, consider running some brands and models by them for their professional input.
Materials
Most CPAP masks are made from materials like latex, silicone, plastic, and fabric. You should first consider any skin allergies you might have. For instance, some people are allergic to silicone and/or latex and should avoid masks with these materials. Additionally, side sleepers should make sure their mask features softer materials that won’t uncomfortably dig into their skin.
Care
CPAP masks require precise care to avoid any damage. Some parts need to be cleaned daily, while others require less maintenance. You should strictly follow the manufacturer’s cleaning directions and repair your CPAP products as recommended.
Cleaning your CPAP masks is vital for preventing any bacteria buildup. A CPAP mask can become yellowish without proper maintenance because water causes discoloration. It can also get a slimy residue if you fail to clean it for an extended period.
Budget
Some masks are more expensive than others as is the case with all medical devices. We suggest you have a pre-set budget because this can help you narrow down your options.
We also suggest checking with your insurance provider beforehand so you fully understand what they will cover. Providers and plans vary so it’s helpful to know the fine print before picking out your CPAP mask and other products.
Warranty
Most manufacturers offer a warranty of at least 90 days, which should cover any defects in materials and manufacturing. In some cases, you can get your mask replaced, and in other cases, you can get your money back. Either way, you’ll most likely have to send your mask for the company to inspect before they agree to send you a new one or refund your money.
What Type of CPAP Mask Works Best for Side Sleeping?
Generally, nasal pillow masks, which are the smallest CPAP mask type, are the best for side sleepers because they’re not as bulky. That said, not everyone can use a nasal pillow mask.
For example, someone who breathes through their mouth will need something larger. In this case, though, it can be helpful to consider a hybrid mask as these aren’t as cumbersome as full face masks.
Since people need varying mask types, the best bet for side sleepers is to look for a mask that not only meets their doctor’s recommendation but is also less bulky and more adaptable for side sleeping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of CPAP mask should I use if I sleep on my side?
If you breathe through your nose, a nasal pillow mask could be a great choice since it’s the least cumbersome style. However, if you’re doctor advises something else, look for design qualities that are more compatible with side sleeping, such as softer materials and an adaptable construction that moves with you more easily.
Can you wear a CPAP mask if I sleep on my side?
Yes, you can wear a CPAP mask if you sleep on your side. You’ll just need to find one that’s going to be comfortable and secure in this position.
It also helps to consider whether you switch sides often or sleep in any other positions. If so, you should look for design features that allow the mask and its tubing to easily adjust with you.
Do they make CPAP masks for side sleepers?
Manufacturers don’t make CPAP masks specifically for side sleepers, but some models work well for this position nonetheless. You should consider a few things like your sleeping habits, whether you breathe through your mouth, and whatever your doctor recommended to ensure you’re getting the best CPAP mask for side sleeping.
Olivera Jancikin
Content Writer
About Author
Olivera is a content writer for Sleep Advisor and is enthusiastic about sleep. She firmly believes in the benefits of daytime naps on top of getting a full 8-hour sleep at night.
Combination Sleeper
- 1. “Urgent Field Safety Notice ResMed Masks with Magnets – Potential Magnetic Interference with Certain Medical Devices”. ResMed. 2024. –