Best CPAP Pillow 2026: Top Models to Prevent Mask Leaks & Pressure Marks

Best CPAP Pillow UK: 2026 Test Winners at a Glance

Which CPAP pillow is right for you?

Are you looking for the best pillow for sleep apnoea UK? You don’t need to put up with slipping masks and pressure points in the morning. Finding the best CPAP pillow is often the missing piece of the puzzle when it comes to successful sleep apnoea therapy.

Last updated on: 29.04.2026

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Best CPAP pillows: which models do we recommend?

Test winner: Contour CPAP Pillow 2.0

Our test winner and arguably the best CPAP pillow on the market. Tried and tested with CPAP users, for increased comfort and better sleep quality.

Advantages:

• Very good pressure relief for the neck
• Recesses are compatible with almost all mask types
• The cover is very soft and gentle on the skin

Disadvantages:

• The defined lying zones make it more difficult to turn over when sleeping
• It’s a little difficult to put the cover on again after washing
• The pillow is often too compact for restless sleepers

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Value-for-money winner: oxyhero CPAP Pillow

Value-for-money winner. Supports effective CPAP application with maximum comfort.

Advantages:

• The recesses make sure that the mask does not slip, helping to prevent leaks
• The pillow is height-adjustable thanks to the removable insert
• The visco foam – also known as memory foam – protects the neck and keeps it stable

Disadvantages:

• The memory foam can cause sweating in summer
• The pillow is somewhat firmer than normal pillows, which won’t suit everyone
• It takes a few days to get used to it

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Comfort all-rounder: Nachtwaechter LINA Side-Sleeper and CPAP Comfort Pillow

Comfortable CPAP pillow. Optimal adjustment thanks to the variable inlay.

Advantages:

• Infinitely variable height adjustment
• Large and comfortable, very nice feel for side-sleepers in particular
• Soft filling keeps the shoulders and neck relaxed and provides cushioning for any pressure

Disadvantages:

• Relatively expensive compared to other pillows
• It takes a bit of trial and error to find the perfect filling amount
• Cleaning is a little more complicated, as the filling has to be removed

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Why a specialised CPAP pillow is so important

A CPAP pillow – also known as a sleep apnoea pillow – can make sleeping a lot more pleasant for people with sleep apnoea. This is particularly true for side-sleepers: when sleeping on one’s side, normal pillows often press on the mask or hose, which causes them to move and in turn leads to leaks or pressure points. Special CPAP pillows solve this problem:

• The recesses and shape prevent pressure points and keep the mask securely in place
• The mask stays put, so breathing is not disturbed
• Memory foam and breathable materials adapt to the head and mask

Results: fewer disruptions and more relaxed, restorative sleep

Important: people who only sleep on their backs will not get much benefit from a CPAP pillow, as the recesses on the side simply wouldn’t be used.

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What problems does a CPAP pillow solve?

• Pressure points: the recesses take pressure off the mask when side-sleeping, and prevent the mask being pushed into the face by the pillow.
• Leaks: the mask is more stable, which reduces leaks – no more air flowing towards the eyes.
• AHI (Apnoe-Hypopnea Index): a good pillow can reduce the AHI by optimising the sleeping position and keeping the airways open, thereby reducing leaks.
• Comfort problems: the ergonomic shape supports a healthy sleep posture and can reduce neck and shoulder pain.

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Which pillows are often used with CPAP therapy?

As well as the classic CPAP pillows (pillows with side recesses), there are also some other pillow types, which primarily adapt to the user’s sleeping position and personal preferences. Here’s an overview:

• Neck support pillows
  • Provide targeted support for the neck and cervical spine
  • Particularly comfortable for back-sleepers
  • Ensure a stable and relaxed position
• Side-sleeper pillows
  • Slightly higher and firmer design
  • Keep the head, neck and spine in alignment
  • Perfect for those who mainly sleep on their side
• Ergonomic special pillows
  • Specially designed for different sleeping positions
  • Provide more support thanks to contours and adjustment option
  • Good for people who move around a lot in their sleep
• Different materials and heights
  • Depending on the model, different height and materials such as memory foam
  • The height is usually individually adjustable

What do these pillows have in common? They all support an ergonomic sleeping position. However, they regularly lack the special recesses for CPAP masks. Despite this, these types of pillows are often sold online as “CPAP pillows”.

What makes a genuine CPAP pillow so special?

A good pillow for sleep apnoea combines the benefits of these types of pillows while also offering:

• Side recesses
  • Extra space for the CPAP mask
  • Less pressure against the face
  • Mask stays in place better
• Fewer air leaks
  • Mask stays more stable and in place
  • More reliable therapy results
• Comfort and functionality in one
  • Particularly good for back- and side-sleepers
  • Combines an ergonomic design with practical functions

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How to choose the best CPAP pillow for your mask?

Not every pillow is compatible with every mask – it’s the recesses that make the crucial difference.

• Full-face masks: these masks need larger and deeper recesses to provide enough space for the entire mask.
• Nasal masks and nasal pillow masks: these mask types usually need smaller, targeted recesses.

Sleeping position also plays a key role in the choice of pillow, as this has an impact on the ideal pillow height and shape:

• Side-sleepers: a higher CPAP pillow is recommended in order to balance out the space between head and shoulders and keep the spine in a straight line.
• People who (also) sleep on their backs: in this case, a flatter pillow with more significant neck support is a good idea, as this keeps the head in a stable and ergonomic position.

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Other things you should know about CPAP pillows

• Material is key: memory foam often moulds to the face better than other materials
• Care is important: washable pillowcases prevent the formation of bacteria and  mites
• Individual adjustment: height-adjustable pillows with removable inserts are particularly beneficial for people with neck pain
• Travel pillows: small CPAP pillows are perfect for holidays or business trips, providing comfort when away from home

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Does the NHS or private insurance pay for the costs of CPAP pillows?

In the UK, the NHS usually does not cover the costs of CPAP pillows, as they are classed as comfort accessories. Private insurance schemes or supplementary insurance schemes will sometimes reimburse part of the costs – primarily with a doctor’s note in the case of pressure points or mask problems, for example.

Tip: Before buying a pillow, always check with your health insurance provider to see whether cost-sharing is possible.

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How were the tests conducted?

Our sleep expert Dr. Grätz thoroughly tested and evaluated a range of different CPAP pillows, drawing on his many years of experience with CPAP patients, the customer reviews in SomniShop and the technical data from the manufacturers. The result was a well-founded assessment designed to help you choose the best pillow for your sleeping position and mask.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about CPAP pillows

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