The Best CPAP Mask for Children

How We Make Our Picks

The best CPAP masks for children are models with proven effectiveness, comfort, and safety. To choose the right models, we use a combination of industry expertise, verified user reviews, medical knowledge, and regular research. Our team of experts also considers peer-reviewed data, product updates, and brand reputation.

We rely on our decades of sleep health experience, combining the knowledge of our product research team, sleep therapists, Dr. Breus, and our other medical professionals. To make sure that products are the right fit for children, we analyze reviews that focus on children’s experiences with a particular model.

What Are the Best Types of Pediatric CPAP Masks?

Pediatric CPAP masks, like those for adults, come in a wide variety of designs but only three main types. Each style has benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider your child’s preferences and needs when choosing which type of mask to buy. 

One important factor to consider is whether your child breathes through their mouth while asleep. Mouth breathing while wearing a nasal or nasal pillow mask can reduce the treatment’s efficacy, so children who breathe through their mouth while asleep may require a full-face mask or a CPAP chin strap to reduce mouth breathing.

CPAP nasal masks vs. nasal pillow masks vs. full-face mask

Fit and comfort are top priorities if you’re shopping for a kid. If they can’t stand the feel of a mask on their face, you don’t have as good of a chance of therapy compliance. Look for adjustable fit options and consider using liners to make the mask comfier.

Can Children of All Ages Use a CPAP Mask?

When administered properly under the direction of a doctor, CPAP therapy is a safe and effective way to treat OSA in children of all ages, including infants, but individual CPAP masks are usually designed for a specific age range. 

Since a CPAP mask must fit correctly to be comfortable and effective, young children who are growing rapidly may need to change mask sizes frequently. Your doctor or sleep specialist can help ensure you choose the right design for your child’s age and size.

Is a Prescription Required for a Child’s CPAP Mask?

Like CPAP machines, CPAP masks can only be purchased with a doctor’s prescription. If you choose to buy your child’s mask online, you will need to submit the appropriate prescription before your purchase is processed. Individual mask replacement parts are available without a prescription.

Are Pediatric CPAP Masks Covered by Insurance or CHIP?

CPAP masks and other necessary equipment for CPAP therapy are usually covered by health insurance, though the specifics of that coverage depend on the provider. Coverage under the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) varies between states. 

Depending on your provider’s policies, coverage for CPAP costs may require you to submit data on how often your child uses their machine. Choosing a comfortable CPAP mask for your child may encourage them to use their CPAP machine as prescribed. 

Where to Buy a Pediatric CPAP Mask

Once you obtain a prescription, you can buy a pediatric CPAP mask from brick-and-mortar and online CPAP retailers, as well as through some sleep specialists.

How to Choose a CPAP Mask for Children

Choosing a CPAP mask for your child can be complicated, but understanding how masks work and what to look for can make the process easier. However, some children may have to try multiple mask designs before finding one that suits their needs.

You may want to ease your child into CPAP therapy instead of jumping in with both feet. That way they can get used to the feel of using a mask while having a break once in a while. Of course, make sure to consult your child’s physician to see what they think.

Tips for Parents New to Pediatric CPAP

Using a CPAP machine for the first time can be overwhelming for some children, but there are ways for parents to make the experience easier and more comfortable. 

• Establish a sleep-friendly space: Since CPAP therapy can make it difficult for some children to fall asleep, it’s important to set them up for success with an appropriate sleep space and good sleep hygiene.
  
  It’s easier to sleep in a dark room that is between 65 and 68 degrees, since both light and temperature can affect the production of melatonin, a hormone involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Children also sleep better when they avoid evening screen time and have a nightly bedtime routine.


• Ease into CPAP therapy: Children who are unfamiliar with CPAP equipment can find the experience frightening, so slowly introducing them to the equipment and experience can help them adjust to using their CPAP machine.
  
  Experts suggest gradually exposing children to wearing and using the mask in short, calm sessions accompanied by verbal praise and rewards, such as stickers or tokens. The more a child associates CPAP use with enjoyable experiences, the more comfortable they will become with CPAP therapy. 


• Clean and inspect the mask regularly: CPAP equipment, including masks, must be inspected and cleaned regularly to keep them hygienic and in good working condition.
  
  CPAP masks come with cleaning recommendations from the manufacturer. However, you can keep most masks in good condition by wiping the mask cushion nightly and washing all the components with warm, soapy water once a week. 


• Replace worn parts: CPAP masks have a number of different components — including the headgear, mask cushion, and frame — that should each be replaced regularly. While the instructions for your child’s mask will likely provide a suggested replacement schedule, components should also be replaced whenever they show signs of wear or damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

While CPAP masks may appear straightforward compared to other aspects of CPAP therapy, they are still intricate medical equipment. If you have questions about which CPAP mask is right for your child, their doctor can provide answers and guide you toward the best mask for your child’s needs.