Finding the best sleep apnea mask as someone who seemingly has no choice but to breathe out of their mouth while sleeping can be daunting! A significant reason these people—commonly referred to as ‘mouth breathers’—aren’t compliant with CPAP therapy or struggle with their CPAP therapy is due to the mask they’re using. Selecting a CPAP mask that supports your specific needs—in this case, breathing through your mouth—is essential to guarantee your CPAP therapy success.
We’ve rated and ranked multiple lifestyle factors to find the top five best CPAP masks for mouth breathers. Keep reading to learn what they are and find the one that works for you.
What Type of CPAP Mask Is Best for Mouth Breathers?
If you breathe through your mouth, you’ll benefit from using a full face CPAP mask. Generally, a full face mask is recommended for people who breathe through their mouths and suffer from frequent stuffy noses or allergies.
A full face mask covers your nose and mouth to create a secure seal. Full face masks enable you to easily breathe through your nose or mouth without interrupting your therapy. While traditionally, full face masks are large, bulky, and typically have a forehead support bar blocking your view or making you feel claustrophobic, you won’t find any recommendations like that here.
Below you’ll find more modern takes on full face designs created for all types of sleepers! Without further ado, here are the top 5 best CPAP masks for people who breathe through their mouths:
Best CPAP Masks for Mouth Breathers in 2024
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Best Full Face CPAP Mask Editor’s Pick: ResMed AirFit F20 Full Face Mask
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Open Sightline | Still Somewhat Large |
| Silicone or Memory Foam Cushions | Can be Leaky |
| Magnetic Headgear Clips | Some Wearers Get Pressure Points/Red Marks/Nose Soreness |
| 360° Tube Swivel |
Meet our most popular full face mask to date, the ResMed AirFit F20! Designed with your comfort in mind, the AirFit F20 blends into your everyday lifestyle and eliminates the traditional forehead support to have fewer touchpoints.
While the AirFit F20 does cover the nose’s bridge, it’s important to note that this mask minimizes the bulk found on other full face masks. It features a low-profile cushion, which is ideal if you’re looking to have an open field of vision to allow for watching T.V. or reading a book before bed! It’s also great for people who experience claustrophobia or those who wear glasses. The low-profile cushion and comfortable headgear straps make it easy to take on and off.
If you’re looking to take your mask on-the-go, the AirFit F20 mask works well with the AirMini AutoSet CPAP Machine, you’ll just need the F20 for AirMini Setup Pack. One last notable feature about the AirFit F20 is that the silicone cushion can be easily swapped out for the AirTouch F20’s Memory Foam Cushion, which is softer, more comfortable, and a great choice for anyone with facial hair!
While some owners report a leaky seal with the F20, leaks can be significantly reduced in most cases with the use of a RemZzzs Padded Mask Liner. Some people may not even have this issue at all, though, and even those with facial hair report secure seals with the AirFit F20.
For a more detailed breakdown, see our full review of the AirFit F20!
| Price | Around $150 |
| Notable Specs | Silicone Mask, Optional Memory Foam Cushion, Quiet, No Forehead Support Bar, and AirMini Compatible. |
| Manufacturer | ResMed |
| Lifestyle Needs | Good for Claustrophobia, Reading/Watching T.V. Before Bed, Back Sleepers, Light Sleepers |
| Sleeping Positions: | Best for Back Sleepers, Works for Side/Active Sleepers |
Customer Highlights
BEST. MASK. EVER!—5 Stars: “I have to say, I’m absolutely amazed with this mask. It is super quiet – like it makes no noise at all, and the exhaling air is so well diffused, you can’t feel it at all. By far the best mask I’ve ever used. Previous mask was the Airfit F10 – which is a good mask in its own right, but its much noisier and is more prone to leaks. I’ve had literally 0 leaks with the F20!” Verified Purchase 08/16/2022
Best Full Face Mask for Side Sleepers: Philips Respironics DreamWear Full Face CPAP Mask With Headgear
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great for Any Sleeping Position | May Leak at Higher Pressures |
| Less Claustrophobic | Hollow Frame Can Be Noisy |
| Good for Wide Faces | Tubing Elbow is Difficult to Disconnect |
| Magnetic Headgear Clips | Sizing Guide May Be Inaccurate |
If you find yourself always snuggling up with a book or watching T.V. before bed, the DreamWear Full Face CPAP Mask With Headgear is what you need! This CPAP Mask features a unique frame design that provides an open line of sight and eliminates traditional bulk, making it a natural fit for stomach and side sleepers.
By repositing the tubes to the side, Philip’s eliminated the traditional bulky headgear feeling without losing a secure seal—making this a natural fit for active sleepers. They’ve also upgraded the actual headgear components to have magnetic closures, making this mask easier to put on and take off with fewer adjustments. This specific mask also comes in a kit option, allowing you to order all of the cushion sizes so you can find your perfect fit.
As is often the case with most of our most popular full face CPAP masks, reviews are somewhat polarizing. Many people agree that this is the mask that solved their problem while others try this mask and decide it’s not for them or not as good as what they were already using.
It’s hard to say whether this is the right mask for you without trying it, which is exactly why we offer a 30-day fit guarantee for every mask we sell. If you decide you don’t like it, reach out to our customer service team within 30 days of your shipping date and we’ll refund you minus shipping! If you need help picking a new mask, they’ll help you out there too.
For a deep dive on this mask and the rest of the DreamWear lineup, see our detailed DreamWear mask review!
| Price | Around $130 |
| Notable Specs | Hollow Frame Design, Fit Pack Includes Cushions of All Sizes (S, M, M.W., L), Top-of-Head Hose Connection, Magnetic Headgear Clips |
| Manufacturer | Philips Respironics |
| Lifestyle Needs | Active Sleepers, Reading/Watching T.V. Before Bed, Good for Claustrophobia |
| Sleeping Positions | Great for Any Position |
Customer Highlights
Very Comfortable—5 Stars: “I really enjoy the freedom of this mask. I sleep on my stomach and switch back and forth a lot. The mask follows me throughout the night with issue. I have a full beard and it seals very well for me. I did go through a bit a a journey for a few nights on the fitment. The guide said I should use a small. I have never used a small for anything in my life. I tried ir and did not have a fun night, it was hard to seal. The next night I just went to the large. It was a much better experience, however it did leak at the crease of each side of my nostrils occasionally. The 3rd night I switched to the medium. In true Goldilocks fashion it was just right. Zero leaks and comfortable. Not looking back.” Verified Purchase 01/01/2023
Best Full Face Mask for Stomach Sleepers: ResMed F30i Full Face CPAP Mask
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great for Any Sleeping Position | Hollow Frame Can Be Noisy |
| Less Claustrophobic | Elbow Vent Loud When Obstructed |
| Multiple Exhalation Ports | |
| Magnetic Headgear Clips |
If you’re a stomach sleeper, let us introduce you to a mask with revolutionary comfort. The ResMed F30i Full Face CPAP Mask provides a durable cushion, which covers your mouth and seals under your nose. By eliminating bulk near the front of the mask and opting for a top-of-the-head hose connection, this mask was created with stomach sleepers and active sleepers in mind to ensure they have the freedom and comfort they need throughout the night without those annoying hose tangles.
You’ve probably noticed by now that this mask is very similar to the DreamWear Full Face mask we just covered. The main difference with this mask is that the cushion is a bit narrower and works better for medium and small faces. The headgear also features accordion-style bends near the eyebrow/temples for a more natural and flexible frame feel that works well for different head sizes; this frame shape also makes it more adaptable for stomach sleepers, too!
ResMed also added a quick-release hose connection at the top, whereas the DreamWear frame requires a bit more effort to get your tubing elbow free. Lastly, the F30i cushion features two distinct nostril openings where the DreamWear uses one large hole. Because of this, it’s typically easier to get a seal with the F30i.
The lightweight silicone frame is the perfect anchor to your therapy to help create a strong seal without sacrificing your comfort. Paired with the ultra-compact full face mask cushion, the F30i is known to eliminate red marks and skin irritation while reducing overnight leaks.
The F30i also offers quiet-venting technology, making it ideal for light sleepers! Instead of letting your exhaled air race out of the vents, the F30i disperses the air up and away to eliminate noise.
For a closer look at this fantastic minimal contact full face mask, see our F30i review!
| Price | Around $160 |
| Notable Specs | 360- Degree Swivel, Open Line of Sight, Whisper-Quiet, Fewer Facial Touchpoints, Magnetic Headgear Clips |
| Manufacturer | ResMed |
| Lifestyle Needs | Active Sleepers, Reading/Watching T.V. Before Bed, Wearing Glasses, Good for Claustrophobia |
| Sleeping Positions | Great for Any Position |
Customer Highlights
Best Mask Yet!—5 Stars: “I have used CPAP Therapy for 7 years and have tried numerous masks and cushions. This combination is comfortable, solves my mouth opening without a chinstrap, keeps hose above me, easy to disconnect for bathroom breaks, allows almost normal breathing when disconnected, good seal, fewer face impressions, and a happier wife! All for $159 – what a small price to pay. Highly recommended as it really worked for me.” Verified Purchase 01/30/2023
Best Value Full Face Mask: Philips Respironics Amara View Full Face CPAP Mask With Headgear
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Wide Open Sightline | Leaky at Higher Pressures |
| Affordable | Can Irritate the Tip of the Nose |
| Flexible Short Tube | Exhalation Vents Point Straight Out |
| Magnetic Headgear Clips |
A good night’s sleep shouldn’t come with a hefty price tag. We’re happy to share our pick for the Full Face CPAP Mask at the best value! The Amara View Full Face CPAP Mask With Headgear by Philips Respironics has a full face mask design and features lightweight materials and essential full face components. This CPAP Mask brings efficient CPAP therapy without depending on forehead support.
The compact Amara View Full Face mask is designed to seal around the mouth and nostrils with the help of an innovative nostril opening, secured by positioning the nasal opening under the nose and adjusting the headgear to a comfortable fit.
Thanks to the flexible short tube, there’s less tube drag on the front of the mask, and the hose connection has a 360° swivel for greater mobility. Not only is this mask more affordable than many available options, it’s a minimal contact full face mask with a wide open sightline that’s perfect for people who wear glasses or enjoy winding down for the night with a book or their favorite show.
If you think the Amara View might be for you, we encourage you to read our Amara View review!
| Price | Around $70 |
| Notable Specs | Under Nose Cushion, Open Vision Design, Lightweight Materials, Universal Size Mask Frame, Adjustable Headgear With Crown Strap |
| Manufacturer | Philips Respironics |
| Lifestyle Needs | Good for Claustrophobia, Reading/Watching T.V. Before Bed, Active Sleeping, Wearing Glasses |
| Sleeping Position | Great for Back Sleepers, Works for Side Sleepers, Not Ideal for Stomach Sleepers |
Customer Highlights
Finally, The Right Mask—5 Stars: “Was struggling with the Airfit F20. Bought a liner for it, which helped, but I am claustrophobic and just could not get used to it covering my entire nose. Decided to try this Amara full face and it has been a fantastic improvement. It seals well and is comfortable to wear and does not bother me like the other did. The air delivery just being to your mouth and nose pretty much directly is not even noticeable, you cannot feel it once the mask is on and sealed. This alone makes for better sleep.” Verified Purchase 01/28/2023
Best Alternative Mask to Full Face for Mouth Breathers: ResMed Mirage Liberty Hybrid Full Face Mask With Nasal Pillows
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very Unique Fit | Pillows May Leak at Higher Pressures |
| Highly Adjustable Headgear | Discontinued in 2023 |
| Wide Open Sightline | Outdated Connection Points |
| Minimal Pressure on Nose/Nose Bridge | Expensive |
Designed to be a near-universal CPAP mask for a variety of needs, the Mirage Liberty from ResMed is a hybrid full face mask that uses nasal pillows and a mouth seal to deliver therapy air. The nasal pillows are very flexible, and thanks to the way they’re designed, they can even be fitted with two different sizes at the same time! So if one nostril is slightly smaller, you can use one small nasal pillow and one medium one to achieve a more personalized seal.
The Mirage Liberty promotes comfort by eliminating pressure points on the forehead and across the bridge of the nose. The crown strap allows for a more custom-fit feel that works to better align the nasal pillows.
This mask has been around for a while, now, so a notable drawback is that it doesn’t benefit from newer advances in ResMed’s design language, such as magnetic headgear clips, and features some older clip-in connection points.
On that same front, it’s important to know that this mask was discontinued in 2023. While it is still available for purchase, there is now a limited supply of replacement parts for this mask. So, if you try it and like it, be sure to order at least a year or two of replacement supplies if you want to continue using it!
| Price | Around $210 |
| Notable Specs | Universal Design, Built-In Chin Strap, No Nasal Bridge or Forehead Contact, All Sizes of Pillows and Cushions, Premium Headgear |
| Manufacturer | ResMed |
| Lifestyle Needs | Good for Claustrophobia, Reading/Watching T.V. Before Bed, Wearing Glasses |
| Sleeping Position | Best for Back Sleepers, Works for Side Sleepers, Not Ideal for Stomach Sleepers |
Customer Highlights
Life Saver—5 Stars: “Tried multiple full face masks until I found this “hybrid” almost 10 years ago…I really hope they decide to keep manufacturing these for the foreseeable future. Only criticism I have is that the nose prong material is a little too soft…I stiffen them up with a couple of elastic bands wrapped around each prong…I sleep on my side and back with just the right amount of tension it seals perfectly…but don’t overtighten…once the seals inflate you’ll be surprised at the sealing capacity of this little guy.” Verified Purchase 01/25/2019
Benefits of Full Face CPAP Masks for Mouth Breathers
Full face masks are larger than nasal pillows and nasal masks; however, many find them more comfortable as they allow them to breathe through their mouth while not reducing pressure delivery. That’s also why people who require a higher pressure setting do best with full face masks. Below are additional benefits to using a full face mask:
- Optimal for high-pressure settings over 17cm H2 because it covers a larger area
- Allows CPAP wearers to sleep comfortably on their back
- Provides relief and doesn’t strain the nasal passages during cold seasons
- Provides a secure seal even for those whose jaw drops while they’re sleeping
- When paired with heated humidification, full face masks are known to prevent dry mouth and keep nasal passages moist throughout the night
- Full face masks cause less nasal cavity irritation since the mask delivers air to both the nose and mouth
- To ensure you have a good seal, full face masks include supportive pieces to fit your cheeks and forehead
- Offers a secure and comfortable seal for those with a deviated nasal septum or high arched soft palate
Challenges of Full Face Mask
Like other masks, there are basic challenges with using a full face mask for CPAP therapy. These challenges include:
- Not all of them are a good choice for bearded men.
- Are not ideal for low CPAP pressures as they require a higher CPAP pressure due to how it delivers air
- Can cause you to swallow air
- Can increase the risk of aspiration
Addressing these challenges can be as easy as swapping brands, sizes, and styles to ensure you are getting a secure and comfortable fit.
Can Mouth Breathers Use Nasal Pillows or Nasal Masks?
Yes and no. While you can’t use a nasal pillow or nasal mask on its own, you can pair it with a chinstrap or an alternative treatment such as Somnifix to help keep your mouth closed during sleep.
Final Thoughts
People who breathe through their mouth and use a nasal mask or nasal pillow mask may experience ineffective CPAP therapy. The majority of the air inhaled comes from the mouth, which does not receive the prescribed CPAP pressure. Additionally, there is no pressure to help sustain an open airway when they breathe out. This is why, when used on their own, the nasal and nasal pillow masks are ineffective for those who breathe through their mouth during the night.
As we advised earlier in the article, we recommend a full face mask for mouth breathers. Alternatively, CPAP wearers have found Hybrid masks like the Mirage Liberty to be effective as well.
Now that you’ve read our recommendation, we’d love to hear yours! What is your favorite full face CPAP mask? Let us know in the comments below!
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