Best CPAP Masks for Children

Continuous positive airway pressure therapy is a common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. CPAP therapy keeps the upper airway open during sleep by blowing pressurized air into a mask that fits over the nose, or the nose and mouth. The mask is an important part of CPAP therapy, as a well-fitting mask is more comfortable and helps ensure the air is delivered properly.

CPAP masks for children are made with smaller frames designed to fit smaller faces, and they come in a variety of styles to meet different needs. While your pediatrician can guide you to the type of mask that’s best for your child, it’s also helpful to have an understanding of the available mask designs and the benefits and disadvantages of each.

We’ll explore the best CPAP masks for children and discuss some factors to consider when shopping. We’ll also share advice on how to ease your child into CPAP therapy.

In-Depth Reviews

What Is the Best Type of CPAP Mask for Children?

While there are exceptions, the best type of mask for most children is a nasal mask that leaves the mouth free. Being able to breathe through the mouth is especially important for young children or those who are unable to remove the mask by themselves.

Mask Type	Description
Nasal CPAP Mask	Most nasal CPAP masks fit over the nose, offering a comfortable way to deliver airflow. This minimalist design may feel less claustrophobic than a full-face model. Nasal cradle masks seal around the bottom of the nose and have an even smaller footprint.
Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask	Though even more pared down than nasal cradle designs, nasal pillow CPAP masks fit into the nostrils, delivering direct airflow that some children may find uncomfortable.
Full-Face CPAP Mask	Full-face CPAP masks cover the mouth and nose. While convenient for children who have difficulty breathing through their nose, full-face masks are generally considered a secondary option.  Total face masks cover the entire face and are sometimes used for younger children.
Hybrid CPAP Mask	A hybrid CPAP mask blends the concepts of a full-face mask and a nasal pillow or nasal cradle mask, delivering air to both the nose and mouth through an interface that makes minimal contact with the face.

How to Choose the Right Mask

When shopping for CPAP masks, it’s helpful to know about the different designs and features that are available with different models. Children do not have as many mask options as adults, but pediatric masks do share similar designs with adult masks. In the video below, we explore different types of masks to help you decide on an ideal mask for your child.

What’s Important to Consider in a Pediatric CPAP Mask?

When choosing your child’s CPAP mask, you should consider not only their therapy needs but also how well they tolerate the mask. Factors like comfort, fit, field of vision, and the ability for caregivers to adjust the mask may be especially important.

Doctor’s Recommendations

Your child’s pediatrician or sleep doctor is in the best position to decide if CPAP therapy is the appropriate treatment, and they can help you choose a CPAP mask based on your child’s needs. Families can perform the initial mask fitting and pressure testing in the doctor’s office, where the health care team can troubleshoot problems before starting CPAP therapy at home.

Sleeping Position

CPAP masks usually work best for back sleepers, as the tubing is less likely to catch on the bed pillow in this sleeping position. If your child is a side or stomach sleeper, or if they tend to move a lot during the night, a mask with top-of-head tubing might be more likely to stay in place.

Fit, Size, and Adjustability

A properly fitted CPAP mask should form an effective seal where it meets the face. Pediatric CPAP masks often have cushions adapted for a child’s facial profile, and the manufacturer may list the age range they’re designed for.

Most masks come with headgear straps that can be adjusted as needed, which is especially helpful for growing children. Manufacturers may also include design features so adults can easily adjust their child’s mask, or transparent components that allow adults to see if the mask is properly fitted.

Headgear and Accessories

Patterned headgear and other child-friendly accessories like matching stuffed animals, books, or videos may help your child be more accepting of their CPAP therapy.

Machine Compatibility

Most CPAP masks, even children’s masks, are compatible with the majority of CPAP machines. However, it’s a good idea to check the support documents before buying, as some travel CPAP machines may be incompatible with certain masks.

Recalls and Warranties

A mask warranty protects you for a limited period of time against manufacturing flaws, with most companies pledging to return your money or replace the mask if you find a problem. Certain replaceable parts, such as the mask cushion, may have shorter warranties.

A recall occurs when the mask’s design is inherently flawed and presents a safety issue for users. During a recall, you may need to provide your information to the manufacturer or supplier so they can exchange your mask for a different model.

Where to Buy a CPAP Mask for Children

CPAP masks are sold in stores and online, with many online retailers offering competitive prices and a wide selection. Alternatively, pediatricians or sleep clinics may supply masks and help you adjust them and learn to use them with your child.

Pricing, Prescriptions, and Insurance Coverage

Pediatric CPAP masks can cost anywhere from $50 to $200, with prices varying depending on the design, materials, and brand. Medicare, Medicaid, and many private insurers help cover the cost of CPAP equipment as long as your child meets certain usage requirements. Coverage under the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) depends on the state.

Masks require a prescription for purchase, although replacement parts are sold over the counter.

Tips for Helping Your Child Adjust to Sleeping With a CPAP Mask

Your child may not want to wear the CPAP mask at first, but you can help them become used to the idea with gentle persistence and help from your pediatrician. Your health care team can help navigate CPAP therapy in an age-appropriate fashion and provide additional strategies for children with anxiety or other disorders.

Ease Into CPAP Therapy

The success of CPAP therapy for children is heavily dependent on the caregiver’s actions. There are many strategies you can use to encourage consistent use of the CPAP mask and device:

• Work in small steps: Instead of starting CPAP therapy all at once, try letting your child wear the mask during the day for brief periods of time. Only when they are comfortable, proceed to turning on the air pressure without connecting the mask, and finally connect the mask and proceed with full CPAP therapy.
• Take a CPAP nap: It may feel less intimidating to start CPAP therapy during a short nap instead of a full night.
• Give rewards: Using rewards for good behavior is preferable to punishing bad behavior. Consider praising your child or giving them a small prize when they wear their CPAP mask. 
• Use distraction: Encourage positive associations with CPAP therapy by allowing your child to play a game, read a book, or watch a movie with the mask on. Distraction is also a good tool if your child tries to take off the CPAP mask.
• Use media: Reading books or watching instructional videos that feature other children can help your child adjust to the idea of CPAP therapy.

Regularly Maintain the Mask

To keep therapy effective and hygienic, CPAP masks need to be cleaned regularly and the parts need occasional replacement per the user guide. CPAP mask cleaning generally involves a daily wipedown of the cushion, as well as a deep cleaning of the cushion, headgear, mask frame, and tubing attachment once a week.

Create a Cozy Sleep Space

You can help your child wind down for bed by dimming the lights, lowering noise levels, and keeping the bedroom at a comfortably cool temperature. Kids do well with a bedtime routine that helps them mentally prepare for sleep, so consider incorporating CPAP therapy into this routine.

Dive Deeper: In-Depth CPAP Guides

A mask is an essential component of CPAP therapy, but successful treatment also hinges on using an appropriate CPAP machine. While most devices come with a basic length of tubing, you may find that another type of CPAP hose is a better fit for your child’s needs.

We’ve also curated several guides to CPAP accessories. While not essential, you may find that they aid in the comfort or convenience of your child’s CPAP treatment.