When it comes to your treatment for insomnia, CPAP masks may be the most critical component. What if you don’t believe me? You’ll understand what I mean if you ever have a mask leak if your helmet is too tight.
This can cause people to skip their sleep therapy sessions, slide their mask off in their sleep, or give up on their CPAP machines entirely.
You are reading: What Is a CPAP Filter? How to Choose a CPAP Filter?
With so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. To determine which CPAP mask is ideal for you, how do you begin? Based on comments from our readers and customer evaluations, we’ve revised our yearly ranking of the best CPAP masks for 2018. Afterwards, continue reading to discover the features to keep an eye out for when making your CPAP mask selection.
What Is a CPAP Filter?
To prevent your airway from closing as you sleep, the CPAP machine draws in ambient air, filters it, and applies pressure to it. These machines, like the first model, are capable of sucking up garbage from the surroundings, just like a modified vacuum cleaner. Tobacco smoke and pet dander are examples of things that could trigger allergies. The filter’s purpose is to remove these impurities from the air before it enters the machine, where they can cause harm to your lungs.
Disposable materials are used in the majority of filters. Paper, foam, or a woven synthetic fiber that resembles polyester batting are the most prevalent.
Location
Your CPAP machine’s filters may be located in a variety of places, depending on the model and make of the equipment. As a last resort, you could ask for help from your durable medical equipment provider.
The filter is hidden beneath a plastic flap that resembles a grate on the left side of the newest ResMed AirSense 10 CPAP machine. This flap-like element houses the white synthetic filter. It’s about the size of a nickel when the flap door is open and the filter has been removed.
There are actually two filters on the Philips Respironics DreamStation CPAP machine. In a removable section on the left side, you’ll find these. One is a little, disposable object. The second one is kept around for longer periods of time and is used to hold the disposable filter. Water should be used to clean the more permanent filter.
How Often You Should Change Filters
Changing your CPAP filters on a regular basis is critical. The air you inhale while using the device will be contaminated if these become soiled. The cost of these filters is really low. 2 You’d have to shell out about $2 a month to keep them new if you paid for them yourself. Filters should be changed or cleaned at least once a month in general. New filters every two weeks are covered by some insurance policies.
Every six months or so, the ResMed filter should be replaced outright. Every month, both the Respironics machine’s long-term filter and the disposable filter beneath it should be replaced.
A dirty or dusty atmosphere may necessitate the replacement of your filters more frequently. You’ll be able to tell how dirty the filter is and how often it has to be replaced if you check it on a frequent basis at first. Replacement should be done at least once a month, no matter how clean the filter appears to be. 2
The Best CPAP Masks
Best Full Face CPAP Mask – ResMed AirFit F30
The ResMed AirFit F30 is an excellent choice for those who want the full-face mask’s protection but prefer the comfort and portability of a smaller mask. There are a few things that make it stand out from other full-face CPAP masks:
- CPAP users who wear glasses or want to watch TV before bed will appreciate the low-profile design, which does not cover the bridge of their nose.
- In order to minimize the appearance of red marks and irritation, we used an ultracompact cushion and a minimal-contact form.
- Side sleepers who need a full face mask can wear this mask because of its tiny profile.
Without having to take your mask off and put it back on, the quick-release elbow makes getting out of bed at night much easier. It’s one of the easiest masks to remove (or put on) because of the magnetic quick-clips.
QuietAir vents in the elbow distribute the airflow for quieter sleep therapy, making it easier for you to be a more thoughtful companion as you sleep!
Back and side sleepers both have their benefits and drawbacks.
A full face CPAP mask is best for persons who wear glasses, those who like to read or watch television before bed, and those who sleep on their side.
Highlights of the Functions:
- Quick-release clips with magnets for simple on/off
- Assistive elbow for getting in and out of the bed quickly.
- Comfortable, peaceful sleep therapy with QuietAir.
Best Nasal CPAP Mask – Fisher & Paykel Evora
CPAP masks can be difficult to put on, but the Fisher & Paykel Evora is the solution. F&P has developed CapFit headgear, which is designed to be put on like a baseball cap!
This is the closest you can go to CPAP therapy without a CPAP mask because of the floating cushion beneath your nose and the simple headgear and gentle stitching.
The Evora’s radial exhaust holes spread the airflow when you exhale, resulting in whisper-quiet operation. This also reduces the draft when you exhale, allowing you to maintain a more intimate relationship with your sleeping partner.
Back, side, and active sleepers are the three most common sleeping positions.
Who It’s Best For: Those who suffer from CPAP-induced claustrophobia or who are restless sleepers.
Highlights of the Functions:
- Ballcap-style headgear called CapFit.
- gentler and quieter exhalation through radial exhaust apertures.
- Reduced red spots and irritation by using soft stitching.
Best Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask – Fisher & Paykel Brevida
The F&P Brevida is a great option if you prefer a simple design but are fed up with masks that fall off your face as you sleep. Unlike other nasal pillows, the AirPillow from ResMed is designed to seal around the sides of your nose for a comfortable and secure fit. If you’re the toss-and-turn kind, you’ll like the swivel connector as well.
If you’re looking for something that can help you sleep, go no further than a reusable, washable CPAP mask diffuser. For a more peaceful exhalation, the diffuser uses filter technology to dissipate air pressure.
VisiBlue accents on the Brevida make it easy to find and connect the correct parts, making assembly even faster and simpler.
Back sleepers, side sleepers, stomach sleepers, and active sleepers are all types of sleepers.
Cpap users with facial hair and those who prefer less headgear are the best fit for this product.
Highlights of the Functions:
- The AirPillow’s unique design combines the comfort of a nasal cushion with the security of a typical nasal CPAP mask.
- The reusable diffuser decreases noise and air flow, and it is easy to clean.
- Assembly is a breeze thanks to VisiBlue highlights.
Best CPAP Mask for Side Sleepers – ResMed AirFit P10
The ResMed P10 nasal cushion CPAP mask is ideal for side sleepers because it is the smallest and lightest option available. Weighing in little less than two pounds, this is one of the most portable CPAP devices on the market.
ResMed calls the woven-mesh vents on the P10 mask “QuietAir vents,” and they help keep the mask’s noise level at 21 decibels, which is practically a whisper. You and your lover both benefit from the vents’ ability to deflect exhaled air away from their faces and away from each other.
There are two soft straps that really touch your face in order to hold your face mask in place while you are laying on your side. As a result, the mask’s assembling, fitting, and cleaning are incredibly straightforward.
Back sleepers, side sleepers, stomach sleepers, and active sleepers are all types of sleepers.
Best for: CPAP users with sensitive skin, active sleepers, people who wear glasses, light sleepers.
Highlights of the Functions:
- Only 1.6 ounces in weight.
- Vents with QuietAir technology decrease noise and guide air away from your face, making it easier to sleep.
- There are just three points of contact on your face with the split-strap helmet.
Best CPAP Mask for Active Sleepers – ResMed Airfit N30i
The ResMed N30i is an excellent choice for those who toss and turn or prefer to sleep on their stomachs.
Because this mask’s head tube connector can swivel complete 360 degrees, you’ll never have to worry about getting caught up in your tubing again. If one side of the mask is pressed against your pillow, the airflow simply reroutes through the other side of the mask!
A highlight of this mask is the sculpted nose. Is snoozing back on the menu? The N30i allows you to be a more thoughtful cuddler by keeping your tube out of the way and directing your exhaled air away from your spouse.
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Active Sleepers, stomach sleepers, side sleepers, and back sleepers all fall into this category.
Cuddlers, active sleepers, eyeglass wearers, and TV watchers are all good candidates for this mattress.
Highlights of the Functions:
- Quick-release elbow so you don’t have to re-fit your mask each time you get out of bed.
- This frame’s SpringFit technology allows it to fit any face shape.
- Hollow frame with top-of-the-head 360-degree tube connector.
Best CPAP Mask for Beards – Philips Respironics DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask
If you have facial hair, you are well aware of the challenges of obtaining a tight seal. By cradling around your nose, the DreamWear nasal mask solves this problem.
Anatomical features such as the nasal cushion, hollow frame, and top-of-head swivel connector are all created with comfort in mind. And unlike fabric straps, the tube-like hollow frame is constructed of a supple silicone material.
The DreamWear is a terrific option if you’re unsure if you prefer a nasal mask or a nasal pillow mask. Besides the normal fitpack, this mask is also compatible with DreamWear gel pillows so you may try out both styles without purchasing additional frame !’s
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Active Sleepers, stomach sleepers, side sleepers, and back sleepers all fall into this category.
The CPAP machine is most suited for those who have facial hair, wear glasses, or are light sleepers.
Highlights of the Functions:
- A top-of-the-head 360-degree swivel connector allows for more mobility.
- Compatible with DreamWear silicone or gel nasal cushions.
- Hole-frame design for a lighter, more contact-free experience
DreamWear Nasal Fit Pack and DreamWear Gel Nasal Pillows are available from Respironics.
How to Choose the Best CPAP Mask for You
It’s a matter of personal preference, but there are several common elements that can help you limit down your options. In order to get the most out of your treatment, you should focus on the following areas:
- Species of Masks
- Styling Your Breath
- Position for Sleeping
- Setting the CPAP Pressure
Types of CPAP Mask
There are just three basic types of CPAP masks: full face, nasal, and nasal pillow, despite the large number of variations available.
Additionally, you may come across some less typical mask styles that give the same CPAP therapy, but with a few additional characteristics.
Full Face CPAP Mask
Sealing around your nose and mouth is achieved with full face CPAP masks. Mouth-breathers and those who have difficulties breathing via their nose would appreciate this feature.
Mouth and nose breathers, as well as CPAP users who suffer from allergies or nasal congestion, are all types of breathing styles.
Many back sleepers, as well as a few people who prefer to sleep on their stomachs.
Allowance for Pressure: Any
Pros:
- In order to make high-pressure conditions more bearable, it distributes airflow.
- Ideal for those who alternate between mouth and nose breathing, or aren’t sure which method they prefer.
Cons:
- Claustrophobic sleepers may find a forehead pad irritating.
- People who enjoy watching television or reading before bed may find this to be an issue.
Nasal CPAP Mask
Nasal CPAP masks just cover the nose, making them ideal for side sleepers and those with facial hair. With a nasal mask, you have the option of adjusting the pressure more precisely than with a nasal pillow.
Only nose breathers are allowed.
People who sleep on their backs or their sides are known as “backsleepers.”
Allowance for Pressure: Any
Pros:
- Can be used with the same pressure as a full-face CPAP mask, but occupies less space.
- For mouth-breathers who can still breathe via their nose, a chinstrap can be used to prevent dry mouth and sore throat.
Cons:
- Claustrophobic sleepers may find a forehead pad irritating.
- Not recommended for those who sleep on their stomachs.
Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask
Nasal cushion Nostril-sealing CPAP masks fit snugly over your nose and mouth. Individual pillows of silicone, gel, or memory foam are used instead of a cushion. You can read or watch TV before you go to sleep while wearing a nasal cushion mask because they are the lightest and smallest of all CPAP masks.
Only nose breathers are allowed.
Active sleepers; those that rest on their backs, sides, or stomachs
Allowable Pressure: Low to Moderate
Pros:
- CPAP users who sleep on their stomachs can benefit from their light weight and sturdiness.
- Watching TV or reading a book before going to sleep is good for people who wear glasses.
- The largest possible field of view.
Cons:
- CPAP users who require high-pressure CPAP therapy are not recommended for this machine.
- Pillows and headgear may need to be replaced more frequently in some models.
Hybrid CPAP Mask
CPAP hybrid masks have a nasal pillow and an oral seal, so they can be worn both over the mouth and under the nose while sleeping.
Mouth and nose breathers, as well as CPAP users who suffer from allergies or nasal congestion, are all types of breathing styles.
Those who like to sleep on their backs or on their sides
Allowance for Pressure: Any
Pros:
- Full-face CPAP masks can be used for a wide range of applications, but they can also be cumbersome and difficult to use.
- No need for a forehead pad for full facial coverage
Cons:
- It’s bulkier than other CPAP masks, such the nasal pillow.
Oral CPAP Mask
Oral CPAP masks are wonderful for mouth-breathers, but they also have minimum headgear, making them ideal for mouth-breathers.
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Mouth breathers are the only ones who should practice this breathing technique.
Those who like to sleep on their backs or on their sides
Allowance for Pressure: Any
Pros:
- Mouth-breathing patients who prefer a more open field of vision and reduced bulk over full-face CPAP masks will find these masks ideal.
Cons:
- Your CPAP therapy will be disrupted if you transition from nose to mouth breathing.
Nasal Prong CPAP Mask
When you wear a nasal prong CPAP mask, you don’t have to worry about it cradling around your nose. Allows for greater mobility, although they are not meant for CPAP users who need high pressure.
Only nose breathers are allowed.
Those who prefer to sleep on their backs, sides, or stomachs.
Allowable Pressure: Low to Moderate
Pros:
- CPAP users with red lines and facial blemishes will appreciate the minimum cushion design.
Cons:
- CPAP users may find the prongs in their nostrils irritating.
What is Your Breathing Style?
Even if we don’t have to tell you how vital it is to sleep with a mask that allows you to breathe properly, since you already suffer from sleep apnea, we recommend asking yourself this question.
It’s best to wear a full-face mask CPAP if you’re a mouth breather due of nasal congestion, allergies or other difficulties breathing via your nose. Alternatively, an oral CPAP mask offers a larger field of vision and requires less headgear.
The combination of a nasal mask or nasal pillow mask and a chin strap can be tested if you sleep with your mouth open but have no difficulty breathing through your nose. A dry mouth or sore throat might be alleviated by using a humidifier with CPAP.
It’s great news, nose breather! CPAP masks can be used by nose breathers with the exception of oral masks.
Full-face CPAP masks and hybrid CPAP masks are the finest options for airflow versatility.
What Is Your Sleeping Position?
You’re a lucky back sleeper! Any CPAP mask can be used by back sleepers.
In this posture, snoring is least likely, but larger masks may slide off your pillow and cause a leak in your airway. It is easier to keep a proper seal using a nasal CPAP mask or nasal pillow mask because of the smaller profile.
You should strive to break your sleeping habits if you suffer from sleep apnea, however a nasal pillow CPAP mask is the best option if you are a stomach sleeper. A gel or memory foam mask cushion is preferable because it will be in close contact with your skin.
A CPAP pillow can assist keep your mask in place and prevent it from shifting or becoming tangled in your tubes.
Look for a mask with a hollow frame and a hose connector that attaches to the top of the head for an active sleeper. When you toss and turn in your sleep, the top-mount CPAP hose will keep your tubing from being tangled, and the hollow frame will allow you to move about freely.
What Is Your Pressure Setting?
Any type of sleep apnea mask will work for you.
While both nasal and full-face CPAP masks can accommodate high pressure settings, full-face CPAP masks may be more pleasant due to their broader airflow distribution.
CPAP masks with nasal prongs or nasal pillows should be avoided.
FAQs
What is a disposable CPAP filter?
It is common for disposable filters to be made of a paper-like material and to be disposable. In order to keep airborne particles out of your CPAP machine, the material is electrostatically charged (filter shown above).
Who should use a disposable CPAP filter?
Disposable filters are a wonderful alternative if you have allergies or other sensitivities and want the simplest option for maintaining your machine, as reusable filters need some care (see below).
How often should I replace my disposable CPAP filter?
Every 30 days, even if they appear clean, disposable filters should be replaced, even if they appear to be in good condition. If you work in a dusty environment, you may need to change it more frequently. To comply with Medicare rules, a filter can be used once every two weeks.
How much does a disposable CPAP filter cost?
If you have an insurance plan that follows the Medicare replacement standards, you may be eligible for a 90-day supply of disposable filters that are replaced every two weeks. Depending on the type of machine, the cash charge for each filter ranges from $2 to $12, and it varies by insurance and provider. It costs Medicare roughly $5 to change a disposable CPAP filter, which you can learn more about here.
Insurance companies utilize the CPT code A7038.
What is a reusable or non-disposable CPAP filter?
Foam-based non-disposable or reusable filters can be reused. Your reusable filter should be checked and washed with warm, soapy water at least once every week. Before reinstalling the mask in your CPAP machine, be sure to thoroughly rinse it to remove any soap residue and let it air dry.
Who should use a reusable filter?
Larger particles in the air, such as pollen, dirt, and pet hair, are easier to remove using reusable filters. These filters are also known as pollen filters. Cash-paying customers may want to consider purchasing these because they are not always covered by insurance (see below) and they are replaced less frequently than other types of medical supplies. Additionally, reusable filters necessitate more frequent cleaning and maintenance. Maintaining this filter on a weekly basis is critical (see above).
What does a reusable filter cost?
Depending on your insurance, a reusable filter can run you anywhere from $6 to $10. Every three months or when the foam begins to rip, the reusable filter must be replaced.
There are times when insurers employ the A7039 CPT code but only if the CPT code for disposable filters is also approved.
Can I use both filters together?
Phillips Respironics Dreamstation CPAP, for example, has two filters. In addition to the disposable filter, the device comes with a bigger, reusable filter. If you wash the non-disposable filter weekly and replace the disposable filter once or twice a month, you can use both filters together.
Some devices, such as the ResMed AirSense 10 series, require the use of disposable filters in order to function properly. There is no way to utilize a reusable filter with this gadget.
What is a bacteria filter or hypoallergenic filter?
In addition to the typical disposable or reusable filter, this universal filter (which may be used with practically any device) is employed. As soon as it displays signs of visible residue or discoloration, it should be replaced. This sort of disposable filter The CPAP machine air outlet and tubing are connected to this independent component.
Each of these filters, which are not normally covered by insurance, costs roughly $5 each.
How can you order new CPAP filters?
Our restocking program can be found here online. We’ll check your coverage and, if necessary, get your permission to ship supplies.
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Category: Sleep Advisors
