Best CPAP Pillows of 2025: Top Picks for Comfort and Airflow
Jeremy Smith is a long-term CPAP user and sleep apnea advocate. After being diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea, he created ByJeremySmith.com to help others navigate CPAP therapy through personal stories, gear reviews, and practical advice.
Using a CPAP machine was life changing for me, but let’s be honest—getting used to the mask isn’t always easy.
I’ve heard from so many people who say the mask digs into their face, shifts out of place, or makes it tough to get comfortable, especially if you sleep on your side.
That’s where CPAP pillows come in…
CPAP pillows are specially shaped pillows designed to work with your CPAP gear.
Most have contoured cutouts to keep your mask in place and reduce pressure on your face. Some are even adjustable or stabilizing to help keep everything aligned through the night.
If you tend to toss and turn or end up sleeping on your side, the right CPAP pillow can make a huge difference. It can help prevent mask leaks, reduce pressure points, and make therapy more effective and more comfortable.
In this guide, I’ll share my top picks for the best CPAP pillows available now, then break down what to look for based on your sleep style, budget, and mask type.
Let’s dive straight into the best CPAP pillows, based on comfort, support, and CPAP compatibility.
Top Best CPAP Pillows
1.Hero CPAP Pillow🔥 – Best Overall
- Designed with side cutouts to reduce mask pressure
- Adjustable height for personalized comfort
- Cool mesh cover for breathability
The Memory Foam Hero CPAP Pillow really stands out when it comes to comfort and thoughtful design for CPAP users. I’ve looked at a lot of options, and this one checks a lot of boxes.
It’s got these smart contours that work with both full-face and nasal masks, so you’re not constantly waking up from pressure or air leaks. The way the pillow slopes down on both sides means your mask and hose don’t get jammed up against your face—everything just flows more naturally.
What do I like most? It’s symmetrical. Whether you sleep on your right or left side, the cutouts are there to support you. There’s also a curved bottom edge that lets your shoulders rest naturally, which is a nice touch if you tend to sleep in a more tucked-in position.
The memory foam gives it that supportive, cradling feel, and it comes wrapped in a super soft outer cover—with not one, but two washable pillowcases included. That’s a win for hygiene and convenience.
🥈 2. Borden Textile CPAP Pillow – Best for Side Sleepers
- Memory foam design with CPAP-friendly cutouts
- Works well with all mask types
- Soft, hypoallergenic cover and durable construction
The CPAP Standard Size Pillow is a clever blend of comfort and function, perfect for anyone using a CPAP machine who’s tired of fighting with their pillow at night.
What sets it apart? The contoured cut-outs. They’re designed to ease pressure from your mask and hose, so you’re not constantly waking up to readjust. It also features a center dimple that cradles your head and supports your neck, making it a great choice for both side and back sleepers.
I especially like that it’s made from hypoallergenic materials, which is a win if you’ve got sensitive skin or deal with allergies. The fill is a blown, slick polyester fiber, and it’s wrapped in a cotton cover with a built-in cooling fabric—great if you tend to run hot at night.
The pillow even comes with its own pillowcase to keep everything fresh and clean. And the white, subtly playful animal-shaped design adds a bit of charm to your setup without looking out of place in your bedroom.
If you’re after a pillow that keeps your gear stable and your neck aligned—all while staying cool and breathable—this one’s definitely worth checking out.
🥉3. HOMCA CPAP Pillow 🧶 – Best Memory Foam Option
- High-quality memory foam contours to your face
- Reduces mask shifting during sleep
- Great option for side and back sleepers
A CPAP Pillow That Works for Every Mask User
If you’ve ever woken up to air leaks, red marks on your face, or your mask shifting out of place, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too—and trust me, it’s frustrating. That’s why I’m excited about this uniquely designed cervical neck pillow built specifically for CPAP users.
With smart side cutouts, it accommodates your CPAP mask and hose without the usual pressure points. No more fighting with your pillow just to keep your seal intact. The result? Fewer leaks, less noise, and way better sleep.
Designed for Side and Back Sleepers
This memory foam pillow comes in two different height options—4.33″ on the high side and 3.54″ on the low. That’s a game-changer if you’re a side sleeper like me or tend to switch to your back during the night.
Need a little more lift? No problem. The company even offers a 0.8″ booster pad if the standard height doesn’t quite cut it. Just reach out to customer support, and they’ll hook you up.
Ergonomic Support That Relieves Pressure
The pillow’s ergonomic shape isn’t just about comfort—it’s about support where you need it most. It helps your neck stay aligned, improves circulation, and reduces tension in the shoulders and jaw. There’s even a hollow cutout for your ear to minimize pressure and prevent that sore, squashed feeling side sleepers often deal with.
4. Core Products Fiber Pillow 💸 – Budget Friendly
This pillow is not sold primarily for CPAP users in mind, but it is CPAP friendly.
- EAR PAIN AND EAR PRESSURE CNH RELIEF: Experience ear pain and pressure relief with our neck pillow designed to be a side sleeping pillow. Featuring ear holes to relieve pressure throughout the night, look no further for the perfect bed pillow. Also great for CPAP users.
- REDUCE ANY FACIAL PRESSURE: Rest easy with our memory foam pillow, which we’ve designed with face, neck, and ear support, so all of your pressure points are cradled.
- FULLY CUSTOMIZABLE: Our side sleeper pillow is fully adjustable. Use the height inserts to adjust the pillow for neck pain to your preferred angle.
What Is a CPAP Pillow?
A CPAP pillow is a specially designed pillow that accommodates your CPAP mask and tubing. Unlike regular pillows, these have contoured cutouts or grooves to reduce mask pressure and prevent hose tangling. That means fewer leaks, less facial discomfort, and better sleep.
If you’ve ever wondered, what is the best CPAP pillow for side sleepers or what is the best pillow for CPAP users, these pillows are made with you in mind. They also help reduce the likelihood of waking up with neck strain, facial red marks, or dislodged masks.
Why Use a CPAP Pillow?
I used to prop my head up with two regular pillows to keep my nasal pillows in place—until I found out that was doing more harm than good. A good CPAP pillow aligns your spine, supports your neck, and helps you breathe freely without pushing against your mask.
Whether you’re using a full-face mask, a nasal mask, or nasal pillow CPAP mask, these pillows help minimize leaks and discomfort. That can mean fewer nighttime awakenings and more restorative sleep.
Best CPAP Pillow for Side Sleepers
Side sleepers need extra consideration. You’re more likely to press against your mask, causing leaks or discomfort. The EnduriMed CPAP Pillow and HOMCA CPAP Pillow are both solid picks here. Their side cutouts and supportive foam make them ideal for lateral positions.
These pillows are also designed to minimize pressure on the mask and tubing, allowing for greater freedom of movement without compromising the seal. So if you’ve been Googling what is the best CPAP pillow for side sleepers, those two should be at the top of your list.
CPAP Pillows vs Nasal Pillows: Not the Same Thing
Quick note—don’t confuse a CPAP pillow with CPAP nasal pillows. The latter are the small cushions that rest at your nostrils in a nasal pillow CPAP mask.
👉 What is the difference between nasal pillows and nasal masks?
How to Breathe With CPAP Nasal Pillows
Learning how to breathe with CPAP nasal pillows takes a bit of practice. Inhale and exhale gently through your nose, keeping your mouth closed to prevent air leakage. If you’re struggling, a chin strap might help.
Also, if you’ve wondered how do you exhale with CPAP nasal pillows, the trick is to keep your breathing relaxed. The machine is designed to respond to your exhalation with pressure relief, depending on your settings. Start slow, use a humidifier if needed, and give yourself a few nights to adapt.
How to Clean CPAP Nose Pillows and CPAP Pillows
- ✨ CPAP Nasal Pillows: Wash daily with warm, soapy water. Avoid harsh chemicals. Let them air dry. Replace every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on usage.
- ☕ CPAP Pillows: Most have removable, washable covers. Spot clean the foam as needed with mild detergent. Replace the pillow annually or if the shape deteriorates.
If you’ve ever searched how to clean CPAP nasal pillows or how to clean CPAP pillows, keeping them fresh is key to staying healthy and extending the life of your gear.
Best Pillow for Sleep Apnea Without CPAP
If you’re not using a CPAP machine (yet), you can still benefit from a sleep apnea pillow. Look for something that promotes back sleeping or elevates the head. Wedge pillows or cervical pillows with neck support are solid choices.
For those wondering what is the best pillow for sleep apnea without CPAP, try an orthopedic wedge or a cervical contour pillow. These help reduce airway collapse during sleep. It’s not a replacement for CPAP therapy, but it can help manage mild cases or supplement your current setup.
Final Thoughts
The best CPAP pillow can seriously improve your sleep—and make your therapy feel less like a hassle and more like a healing routine. Whether you’re a side sleeper, back sleeper, or new to nasal pillows, there’s an option out there that fits you perfectly.
Disclaimer: The content on this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always speak with your doctor or sleep specialist before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment or therapy related to sleep apnea or CPAP use.
