What Are the Best CPAP Masks for Stomach Sleepers?

There’s no universal approach when it comes to sleep apnea therapy. Any CPAP user can tell you that adjusting to therapy is a process of trial and error which involves trying out different CPAP masks. We’ve talked about how important it is to find the right CPAP mask size and the right CPAP mask type. But it’s also important to choose the right mask for your unique sleeping style.

In this article, we review the best CPAP masks for stomach sleepers. We compare the features, pros and cons of various Philips and ResMed CPAP masks such as the DreamWear Full Face Mask and the AirFit P30i Nasal Pillow Mask.

Jump to our CPAP mask recommendations.

There are three main CPAP mask types: nasal, nasal pillow and full face masks.

Full Face

A CPAP full face mask covers both the mouth and nose area. This mask is ideal for people who tend to breathe through their mouths.

Nasal

This type of sleep apnea therapy mask fits around the entire nose or under it. A CPAP nasal mask doesn’t cover the mouth and is a comfortable choice for most users.

Nasal Pillow

A CPAP nasal pillow mask includes a soft cushion with tips that sit directly inside the nostrils. It’s the most compact type of mask and the most popular choice for first-time CPAP users. These masks are lightweight and provide minimal facial contact.  

So how can stomach sleepers choose the perfect sleep apnea mask? Read on to see which type of mask is best for stomach sleeping.

About 7% of people are fond of stomach sleeping. Although it’s the least popular sleeping position, studies have shown that stomach sleeping helps reduce AHI (apnea hypopnea index) and improve oxygen saturation.

However, stomach sleepers often face unique challenges when it comes to choosing the right CPAP mask. The sleep position they find most comfortable can sometimes clash with the typical designs of CPAP masks. Masks with a bulky frame or cushion, or with a traditional frontal tubing connection, can cause strain on the neck

Without further ado, let’s explore the best types of CPAP masks for stomach sleepers.

Nasal Pillow Masks

Nasal pillow masks are the number one option for stomach sleepers undergoing sleep apnea therapy. They are lightweight and feature a soft cushion with tips called nasal pillows that sit in the nostrils.

Plus, nasal pillow masks offer minimal face contact and are less obtrusive. Thanks to the secure fit of the nasal pillows inside the nose, they are highly unlikely to come loose during sleep.

CPAP Masks with Top-of-the-Head Connection

As the name implies, CPAP masks with top-of-the-head connections have a unique design where the CPAP hose connects at the top of the head instead of at the front of the face. This unique feature provides a range of benefits such as a more secure fit, enhanced comfort, unobstructed vision and less noise disturbances.

This top-of-the-head connection is not limited to any one style of mask; it is found across all types including full-face, nasal, and nasal pillow masks.

CPAP users may want to consult with their healthcare providers to determine the best mask type that fits their individual needs. Or, let a member of the RespShop team provide personalized mask recommendations.

We know how difficult it can be to find a sleep apnea mask that is comfortable and effective. To help you with that, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best CPAP masks for stomach sleepers. Keep reading for our top picks.

The first and highly recommended CPAP nasal pillow mask on our list is the ResMed AirFit P30i. Designed with your comfort and sleep quality in mind, this nasal pillow mask is truly a game changer in the world of sleep apnea therapy.

Featuring a flexible silicone frame, this ResMed CPAP mask easily accommodates a wide range of facial structures. Its highlight, however, is its 360° rotating top-of-the-head connector that lets you sleep comfortably on your stomach. In fact, you can sleep comfortably in any position with the AirFit P30i. 

The AirFit P30i comes with a quick-release elbow for easy tubing disconnection. Plus, the elbow connector, located at the top of the frame’s center, features vent ports that aid in carbon dioxide removal when your face is nestled in your pillow.

In terms of sizing options, this mask is available in two starter packs. Both packs include three sizes of nasal pillows: small and medium in the small starter pack, plus a large size in the standard starter pack. The only other difference is the frame size; the standard pack comes with a frame suitable for most users, while the small pack offers a frame ideally suited for individuals with smaller head structures

Pros: AirFit P30i Nasal Pillow Mask

Users love how quiet this ResMed mask is. Thanks to its QuietAir Vent technology which gently disperses air in multiple directions, the P30i emits an airflow noise of just 21 decibels.

Another feature that customers love is its breathability. The open-face design doesn’t just provide an open line of sight; it also offers a cool and comfortable sleeping experience. 

Others say the best part of the AirFit P30i is its modular design that allows users to customize it with ease. You can convert the P30i into a nasal mask by replacing the P30i Nasal Pillow Cushion with the N30i Nasal Cushion.

Cons: AirFit P30i Nasal Pillow Mask

Despite all the good things this sleep apnea mask has to offer, some users weren’t that satisfied. Some report facial swelling and nasal irritation upon using the standard starter pack. 

This is most likely due to using an incorrectly sized nasal pillow cushion and/or not fitting the mask properly. Here are some tips for fitting the AirFit P30i and how to find the proper frame size.

If nasal pillows just aren’t for you, you might want to try the ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal CPAP mask instead. 

If you want other options besides CPAP nasal pillow masks, we suggest trying the ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal Mask. This nasal mask promises a comfortable, quiet, and uninterrupted night’s rest.

The AirFit N30i fits like a glove and that’s all thanks to its self-adjusting SpringFit Frame which minimizes mask displacement as you move around. Plus, you can alter the fit of the headgear effortlessly with easy-to-adjust Velcro tabs.

We recommend this nasal mask for stomach sleepers because its top-of-the-head connection and 360° elbow swivel on top of the head lets you sleep in any position. The AirFit N30i has exhalation vents on the elbow and on the front of the cushion to help facilitate carbon dioxide removal when you’re sleeping on your stomach.

Like the AirFit P30i Nasal Pillow Mask, this ResMed mask also features the brand’s QuietAir Vent technology which disperses air away for a restful night’s sleep.

And, as for size, the AirFit N30i comes in standard and small starter packs. Each pack includes three nasal cushion sizes: small, medium, and small-wide, along with either a small or standard mask frame. Like its P30i counterpart, the standard choice fits most users while the small one is ideal for smaller head structures. 

Pros: AirFit N30i Nasal Mask

Users love how flexible this CPAP nasal mask is. If you’re undecided as to whether you want a nasal mask or a nasal pillow mask, the N30i lets you keep your options open. Simply switch your N30i Nasal Cushion with a P30i Nasal Pillow and you’re good to go. 

Another feature users love about the N30i is how well the cushion seals. It’s designed with more curvature compared to other nasal cushions, such as those from the Philips Respironics DreamWear Nasal Mask. This curved design effectively reduces air leaks from the sides of the nose.

Cons: AirFit N30i Nasal Mask

Of course, the AirFit N30i isn’t perfect and that’s understandable – let’s see what users didn’t like about this nasal mask.

Some users struggled with sizing. To address this, the most straightforward solution is to experiment with different cushion sizes. We suggest trying all three cushions before settling on one – unless of course, the cushion is clearly a poor fit.

Here’s a tip if you have a broader nose: the AirFit N30i Nasal Cushion also comes in a wide size. This size isn’t available in either of the starter packs but can be purchased separately.

There were also quite a few complaints about the QuietAir Vent that was redesigned in 2021. Some users said the new design restricted airflow while others said it caused their mask leak increase. Others however, said the new design significantly reduced noise and was an improvement.

If you’re looking for an even lighter nasal mask than the ResMed AirFit N30i, we recommend giving the DreamWear Nasal Mask a chance.

This CPAP mask boasts an elegant and streamlined top-of-the-head design with a cushion that sits gently beneath your nose for a tight seal without any discomfort. 

With a minimalist, open-face frame design, it’s no surprise the DreamWear Nasal Mask is one of the most popular CPAP masks on the market. Users can enjoy some late-night TV or settle down in bed with a good book with this lightweight mask. 

Additionally, the DreamWear Nasal Mask includes a soft silicone frame that directs airflow straight into the cushion. This design is perfect for every sleeping style, ensuring a reliable seal and uninterrupted airflow throughout the entire night. 

Philips Respironics improved the fit of this mask with the enhanced DreamWear Headgear with Arms which does a much better job of keeping the mask in place compared to the original DreamWear headgear. This second-generation headgear features two plastic arms that run from the silicone frame, over the ears, and to the fabric head strap. The arms prevent leakage and help distribute the mask’s weight more evenly, which reduces pressure points.

Pros: DreamWear Nasal Mask

Customers frequently praise this mask for its comfortable structure. Aside from the soft silicone frame, it even includes fabric wraps that shield the cheeks from redness and irritation – simply amazing!

Users also liked how both the frame and cushion come in multiple sizes. The frame ranges from small to large while the nasal cushion is available in small, medium, medium-wide, and large. That’s a lot of sizing combinations!  

Cons: DreamWear Nasal Mask

Unfortunately, some users have reported issues with the fit of this CPAP mask. It’s worth noting that, in rare cases, the mask can fit too tightly and may catch on your hair. To remedy this, we recommend experimenting with different frame sizes to find the one that best suits your head structure.

Learn how to protect your hair from your CPAP mask here.

Stomach sleepers who breathe through their mouths will love the comfort that the DreamWear Full Face Mask offers. This lightweight mask with a top-of-the-head connection features the same soft silicone frame common to the DreamWear line of masks.

Perhaps the best aspect of the frame is its compatibility with various cushion styles. This flexibility frame supports the DreamWear Gel Pillows, Silicone Nasal Pillows, Nasal Cushion, and of course, the DreamWear Full Face Cushion. Coupled with an one-size-fits-all headgear, this mask truly offers a cost-effective solution to sleep apnea therapy.

Another standout feature of the DreamWear Full Face Mask is its under-the-nose full face cushion. It covers the mouth while resting comfortably beneath the nose, instead of over it, helping to reduce the nasal bridge discomfort that many full face mask users experience. The cushion is available in small, medium, large, and medium-wide sizes.     

Thanks to the rotating elbow swivel located in the center of the frame, you can rest assured that your CPAP tubing won’t get tangled or pulled when you change positions. Furthermore, the elbow includes a quick-release connector for easy disconnection from your CPAP machine in the night. 

While we’re discussing convenience, it’s worth mentioning that this full face mask features magnetic headgear clips for easy mask fitting and adjustments. However, if you have a pacemaker, cochlear implants or any other metallic medical implant, we recommend choosing a CPAP mask with traditional non-magnetic headgear clips instead.

Pros: DreamWear Full Face Mask

Users love the open-face frame and under-the-nose full face cushion. It allows for a much less claustrophobic sleep therapy experience and those who tend to run hot in their sleep really appreciate the mask’s lightweight design.

Many appreciate how they can easily convert from a nasal mask to a full face mask by changing the cushion and headgear. Quite a few users who have seasonal allergies say they change their DreamWear Nasal Mask to the full face version come spring.

Cons: DreamWear Full Face Mask

Some users struggle with mask leak particularly under the nose. If this happens, we suggest trying a different cushion size and making sure your frame is sized properly. If you don’t want to purchase the fit pack that includes all four cushion sizes, you can download and print out this sizing template to find your best cushion size.

For general tips on fixing CPAP mask leak, check out this guide.

Last, but not the least, we have the ResMed AirFit F30i Full Face Mask. Like the other CPAP masks for stomach sleepers on our list, the F30i also features a tube-up design and an open field of view.

Unlike traditional full-face cushions that cover the nose bridge, the ResMed AirFit F30i features an under-the-nose full-face cushion that is perfect for people who wear glasses. The F30i Full Face Cushion is soft and conforms to your face and its InfinitySeal technology ensures a tight seal.

Like the DreamWear Full Face Mask from Philips Respironics, the AirFit F30i also boasts a flexible and soft silicone frame that doesn’t dig into your face when you sleep on your side or stomach. This ResMed mask also features a 360° elbow swivel on top of the head for more sleeping freedom.

When it comes to sizing, the AirFit F30i offers an array of frame and cushion sizes to choose from. The frame is available in small, standard/medium, and large, while the cushion comes in small, medium, small-wide, and wide.

Hate struggling with uncooperative headgear and buckles that leave marks on your face? Give the ResMed AirFit F30i a try and experience how easy mask fitting and adjustments can be with quick-release magnetic clips. The magnetic clips help guide the headgear to the cushion, and Velcro tabs on the headgear let you customize the fit for the best seal.

Pros: ResMed AirFit F30i Full Face Mask

Users love that the tube connector sits on top of the head so they can keep the CPAP hose off the bed. This prevents tangling and makes changing positions much more comfortable.

The under-the-nose full face cushion makes a huge difference if you find full face masks claustrophobic or if your nose needs some relief from the pressure of the cushion sitting on it.

Cons: ResMed AirFit F30i Full Face Mask

Sizing this mask can be quite complicated because there are so many options to choose from. Unfortunately, ResMed doesn’t offer a fit pack with the F30i so there’s no way to experiment with different sizes at home. If the AirFit F30i seems like the mask for you, we highly recommend using the AirFit F30i Frame Sizing Gauge and AirFit F30i Cushion Sizing Gauge to find your best fit prior to purchasing.

The key to success with CPAP therapy is finding a mask that works with your facial structures and sleeping positions. The masks that we’ve covered are not only great for stomach sleepers, they also work well for active sleepers and anyone looking for a light and compact mask.

If none of these masks appeal to you, why not reach out to RespShop for personalized mask recommendation? Our friendly and knowledgeable team can help you find a suitable CPAP mask. And best of all, all our masks come with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee so you can return your mask in 30 days if you don’t like it.