Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a widely used treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. This treatment method delivers pressurized air through the mouth and/or nose to keep the airways open during sleep.
One of the primary components of the CPAP setup is the mask, which comes in several different styles. Full-face CPAP masks extend from the bridge of the nose down to the mouth, delivering air through both the nose and mouth. By contrast, a nasal mask covers just the nose, for a more streamlined design that’s less likely to cause claustrophobia.
If you like the idea of a minimalist design but you need a mask that also lets you breathe through your mouth, you may be interested in a hybrid CPAP mask. This style forms a low-profile seal over the mouth and the bottom of the nose, while leaving the bridge of the nose and the forehead clear.
We’ll discuss the benefits and drawbacks of hybrid masks compared with other CPAP mask styles. We’ll also share our top picks for the best hybrid CPAP masks on the market today.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
ResMed AirFit F30 Full Face CPAP Mask
Ideal For
- People who sometimes breathe through their mouth while sleeping
- Those with sensitive skin
- CPAP users who dislike the feeling of nasal pillows
Who Should Keep Looking
- People with bulky facial hair
- Sleepers who wear, or who share a bed with someone who wears, a pacemaker or other medical device that can’t be around magnets
- Stomach sleepers
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Price
$170
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Size
Small, Medium
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Type
Full-Face
Why We Chose It
The ResMed AirFit F30 CPAP Mask covers both the mouth and nose, but sits just under the nostrils instead of covering the bridge of the nose. This design is intended to reduce feelings of claustrophobia and potential irritation on the bridge of the nose. It also leaves a wider field of vision for reading or watching TV before bed, or even wearing glasses with the mask on.
The mask features a soft silicone seal, along with a venting system that quietly disperses exhaled air. Magnetic clips and a quick-release elbow make it easy to take the mask on and off. With its front-of-face tubing attachment, the ResMed AirFit F30 is suitable for side sleepers and back sleepers.
Use this SleepApnea.org link for the most current discount on ResMed products
Shop NowBest for Combination Sleepers
ResMed AirFit F30i Full Face CPAP Mask
Ideal For
- Stomach sleepers or those who frequently switch sleeping positions
- Those who value having a large range of sizes from which to choose
- People who alternate between mouth and nose breathing during sleep
Who Should Keep Looking
- People who exclusively breathe through their nose while sleeping
- Those who sleep near a pacemaker or other implanted medical device
- Sleepers with long hair who find it uncomfortable to have the tubing attachment up top
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Price
$159
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Size
Small Frame, Standard Frame, Large Frame
Why We Chose It
The AirFit F30i has a top-of-head tubing attachment with a flexible elbow that shifts to accommodate different sleeping positions. Unlike front-of-face tubing attachments, this design allows sleepers to shift onto their side and even their stomach without knocking the mask out of place or breaking the seal. This setup makes the mask ideal for combination sleepers, particularly those who spend a significant amount of time on their stomach.
The nasal portion of the mask features a soft silicone nasal cradle that connects underneath the nostrils, leaving the bridge of the nose free. The mask also leaves a clear field of vision, with no forehead stability bar to interfere with wearing glasses, reading, or watching TV. Thanks to a magnetic clip system and a quick-release elbow, the mask is easy to pop on and off for nighttime bathroom visits.
Use this SleepApnea.org link for the most current discount on ResMed products
Shop NowWhat Is a Hybrid CPAP Mask?
A hybrid CPAP mask is similar to a full-face mask in that it covers both the mouth and nose. However, a hybrid mask sports a more minimalist design that leaves a wider field of view and less facial coverage.
Different hybrid mask designs accomplish this in different ways. For example, a hybrid mask may use a nasal pillows design with prongs that sit inside the nostrils, or a nasal cradle design that sits under the nose. Unlike some other types of full-face masks, hybrid masks generally allow a separate seal for the mouth and the nose. Hybrid masks also skip a forehead stability bar, leaving the bridge of the nose and the forehead free.
Hybrid CPAP masks are a less claustrophobic option than typical full-face masks for people who prefer receiving airflow through both the mouth and the nose. They may be convenient for sleepers with allergies, a deviated sinus, or other nasal obstructions that sometimes prevent them from breathing through the nose.
The low-profile nasal pillows or cradle design may also form a better seal for those with facial hair, and they don’t cause pressure points on the bridge of the nose or the forehead. Since there aren’t any straps obstructing the eyes, hybrid CPAP masks allow users to wear glasses, read, or watch TV while wearing the mask.
What to Consider in a Hybrid CPAP Mask
When choosing a CPAP mask, you’ll want to consider individual factors such as fit, comfort, and sleep position, along with general factors such as the cost, quality of the materials, and compatibility with your other CPAP components.
- Cost: Pricing for hybrid CPAP masks tends to be similar to pricing for full-face CPAP masks, between $60 and $200. Due to its more complex design, a hybrid mask may set you back a little more than a nasal-only mask. That said, many insurance plans cover the cost of a CPAP mask.
- Fit: Using a mask with a good seal is essential to ensure you get the most out of your CPAP therapy. Most manufacturers offer different sizing options to suit a wide range of sleepers, including different-sized pillows if one nostril is bigger than the other. Check the size guide or talk to your doctor for help with choosing the right size.
- Comfort: Hybrid CPAP masks come in several different permutations, and you may need to try several different models before finding one that works for you. Notably, hybrid masks with nasal pillows may be uncomfortable when used with higher air pressure settings.
- Sleep position: Depending on the design, some hybrid masks may be easily knocked out of place when side sleeping or stomach sleeping. People who spend most of the night in these sleep positions may find a low-profile nasal mask works better.
- Materials: Mask cushions are commonly made of silicone, which is a flexible material that’s less likely to cause allergies than latex. The headgear and mask frame may incorporate cloth, hook-and-loop fasteners, memory foam, or other soft materials. If you or your bed partner use a pacemaker or other implanted medical device, check to see if the mask has magnetic clips, which can sometimes interfere with these devices.
- Compatibility: The majority of CPAP masks are designed to work with standard tubing attachments, making them compatible with most CPAP machines. Your mask may not be compatible with travel or mini CPAP machines, which use a more slender hose. Check the manufacturer’s compatibility guide before buying.
Why We Picked These
The SleepApnea.org team has a wealth of experience relating to all different types of sleep products. Our CPAP experts rely on in-depth analysis and research to select the best products on the market.
CPAP mask fit is highly personal, and a design that works for one person may not work for another. To ensure our recommendations apply to a wider variety of people, we supplement our research by drawing on reviews and feedback from real customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hybrid CPAP masks combine the mouth-and-nose coverage of a full-face mask with the low-profile design of a nasal pillows or nasal cradle mask. As a result, they accommodate the needs of sleepers who need a mask that accommodates mouth breathing, but prefer a less obtrusive design that leaves the forehead and bridge of the nose clear.
Putting on a hybrid CPAP mask is similar to putting on a full-face mask. You slip the headgear over the top of your head, pull the cushions over your mouth and nose, and adjust the straps until it forms a snug and comfortable seal. The mask should not be so tight as to cause discomfort — in fact, many masks form a better seal when they are not overtightened.
If your mask has nasal pillows, check to make sure they are positioned straight inside your nose. You may need to readjust the mask after lying down.
Hybrid CPAP masks tend to have flexible tubing with a swivel elbow that moves to accommodate your changes in sleeping position. You should be able to sleep comfortably on your back and, often, on your side. If you’re a stomach sleeper, you may want to look for a low-profile mask with a top-of-head tubing attachment, which may be less likely to move out of place.
At first, learning to sleep with a CPAP mask can be challenging. It’s important to find a mask that fits right and forms a secure seal without irritating the skin. Wearing the mask during waking hours may help you get used to how it feels. You can also talk to your healthcare provider about choosing a mask and using different techniques to reduce discomfort, such as using a humidifier, wearing a mask liner, or adjusting the air pressure settings.
Written by
Danielle Pacheco, Staff WriterDanielle is originally from Vancouver, BC, where she has spent many hours staring at her ceiling trying to fall asleep. She channels her frustration into researching sleep solutions and sharing insights with fellow insomniacs. Danielle spends her downtime trying out new recipes and working off the calories on the soccer field. Danielle studied the science of sleep with a degree in psychology at the University of British Columbia
