The Best CPAP Chin Straps to Stop Mouth Leaks (Featuring Philips & ResMed)

If you use a nasal CPAP mask or nasal pillows, you may find that keeping your mouth closed while you sleep can sometimes be a challenge. When your jaw relaxes and your mouth falls open during the night, some of the pressurized air delivered through your nose can escape through your mouth.

This is known as a mouth leak, and it can leave you waking up with a very dry mouth or throat. It can also contribute to a higher leak rate on your CPAP machine. If significant leaks continue, they may affect how well your therapy works.

So how can you help keep your mouth comfortably closed while you sleep? Here is a look at mouth tape vs chin straps, along with two options that may help reduce mouth leaks. 

Mouth Tape vs. CPAP Chin Straps

Recently, “mouth taping” has become a viral internet trend. It involves placing specially designed adhesive tape over your lips to encourage nasal breathing during sleep.

While some people may find mouth tape helpful, it is not suitable for everyone, particularly if you have difficulty breathing through your nose. For example, nasal congestion caused by allergies, a cold, or other issues can make nasal breathing more difficult. Some people may also experience skin irritation from the adhesive.

Instead, many people using nasal CPAP masks choose CPAP chin straps. A good chin strap provides gentle support around the lower jaw and can help encourage your mouth to remain closed while you sleep. It can also be removed easily if you need to cough, adjust your mask or have a drink during the night. 

SleepQuest’s Preferred Choice: The Philips Premium Chin Strap

After testing numerous options, the clinical team at SleepQuest recommends the Philips Respironics Premium Chin Strap for patients who are experiencing mouth leaks.

Here is why this particular strap can be a comfortable option:

• Integrated Chin Cup: Unlike some basic straps that can move out of place or feel uncomfortable, the Philips Premium Chin Strap features a built-in chin cup designed to cradle the chin and help keep the strap securely in place even if you toss and turn in your sleep.
• Vertical Support: The strap is designed to provide gentle upward support to the jaw, rather than pulling it backwards, toward your neck. This vertical support protects your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) from unnecessary strain.
• Premium Materials: It is made from a blend of soft lycra and polyester foam, making it comfortable against the skin throughout the night.
• Highly Adjustable: The Velstretch material and Velcro fastenings make it easy to adjust the fit and tension to suit your needs.

The Minimalist Option: The ResMed Chin Restraint

If you want an alternative to the Philips model, the ResMed Chin Restraint offers a simple design that pairs perfectly with ResMed’s popular line of nasal masks.

• Simple Design: The ResMed chin strap uses a minimalist, single-strap design that easily wraps under the chin and fastens at the top of the head.
• Low Profile: With less material than some other chin straps, it can be a good option for people who prefer a lighter, less bulky design.
• Washable and Durable: The soft fabric can be washed regularly, helping you keep your CPAP accessories clean and comfortable to use .

Upgrade Your Sleep at the SleepQuest Webstore

Your CPAP therapy works best when your equipment is properly fitted and air leaks are kept under control. If you regularly wake up with a dry mouth or notice high leak readings on your machine, a chin strap may be one option worth considering if you use a nasal mask or nasal pillows.

If mouth leaks continue despite using a chin strap, speak with your sleep specialist or a respiratory therapist. They can help determine whether a different mask style or another solution may be more suitable for you. 

Stop losing therapy pressure to mouth leaks. Purchase the SleepQuest-preferred Philips Premium Chin Strap, the ResMed Chin Restraint, and other premium comfort accessories directly at shop.sleepquest.com today.