Foam CPAP Mask Seals

For as long as CPAP masks have existed silicone has been the standard. Now, there is another option. Memory Foam CPAP masks have become a very interesting alternative to the silicone options. There are pros and cons to the memory foam as well as to the silicone. So, let’s take a deep dive and see what the right option for you might be.

What are the Foam CPAP Mask Options?

ResMed has been the trend setter in the memory foam category. They have a full-face option as well as a Nasal option. The full-face mask is the AirTouch F20 from ResMed. The Nasal is the AirTouch N20. Both have the same sizing, frames, and accessories as their AirFit F20 and N20 counterparts, but the AirTouch versions use memory foam seals. Both of these masks have been around for a while now, and both are available in small, medium and large sizing.

How does the Memory Foam Mask Work?

There is very little difference between how the memory foam CPAP masks work compared to the silicone versions. They are fit with standard headgear and seal against your face. However, the foam is all that touches your face instead of silicone. You tighten the mask as needed with the headgear to account for leaks and to improve your fit. The foam provides a very reliable seal without the abrasion that silicone can sometimes cause.

What are the upsides to a Memory Foam CPAP Mask?

• Very Comfortable– You really cannot beat the comfort level of the memory foam. When tested by CPAP users it is almost always rate as “more comfortable” than their current mask.
• Great for Beards– The foam does a great job of sealing against facial hair without having to overtighten the straps.
• Great for people with silicone allergies– If using silicone causes skin issues or rashes, then a foam seal can make a huge difference. It would certainly be worth a try.
• Really helps with those annoying lines on your face in the morning– The foam will give a more dispersed and soft seal against the face. This greatly reduces those impression lines that you have in the morning.
• Reduces abrasion– Silicone is a bit tacky and can rub your skin to the point of breaking it down. Foam does not create this issue.
• Seals extremely well– the foam contours extremely well to your features. This allows you to seal without having to over-tighten the mask.
• Low maintenance– The foam is built to last 30 days with little to no maintenance at all. At most a simple wipe with a Mask Wipe is all that is needed.

What are the downsides to a Memory Foam CPAP Mask?

• They do not last as long– You will not get nearly as long out of the foam seal versus the silicone seal. Many users will keep an extra seal around just in case the primary wears out.
• When it is done, it is done– When the foam seals go bad, they do not work at all. Typically, the foam will tear lose from the silicone base of the seal, and the air will escape through the tear.
• You can’t wash them– You cannot wash the foam seal at all. Exposing it to soap and water will deteriorate the seal almost immediately. The only cleaning option is the mask wipes for cleaning.
• Foam sometimes separates from the seal frame– The foam is attached to the silicone base of the mask seal. When the seal wears out, this is where it typically separates. This makes the seal useless at that point.
• Cost– They are not cheap, and they have to be replaced more often. So, you will not get off as cheaply as with silicone.
• You cannot use ozone– Ozone will almost immediately destroy the memory foam. If you use a SoClean or Sleep8 CPAP cleaner, then you have to take the seal off of the mask before you put the rest of the supplies in for cleaning.

Sizing yourself for a Memory Foam CPAP Mask:

Sizing yourself for the AirTouch N20 or AirTouch F20 Memory Foam CPAP masks is very easy. We have links below to the sizing gauges. Then simply follow the steps below to find your right fit.

Fitting your Memory Foam Mask:

1. Use the links above to print your sizing gauge.
2. Cut out the sizing gauge, ensuring that it is to scale.
3. Use the gauge in a mirror to see which size is best for your features.
4. Place the order here for your AirTouch N20 or here for your AirTouch F20.

How to clean a Memory Foam CPAP mask:

You have to be careful when you clean a memory foam mask. You must first make sure that you remove the seal from the mask frame before you wash the rest of your supplies. The only method for cleaning your memory foam mask is a CPAP mask wipe. Even when you are using a mask wipe, then you need to be careful not to scrub harshly or pull at the foam. The foam cushion is built to maintain cleanliness without washing for up to 30 days.