I have been on a CPAP over 3 years with a face mask and chin strap. My pressure is 17 so leakage can cause sores. I do have a tight fitting mask but the biggest help to prevent leakage is be sure to wash all the face oils from the pad each morning.
For placement, I keep the machine close to the head of the bed, It may be on the floor with the machine setting on a least a magazine. If space permits (like at a motel) I use an empty drawer as a dust barrier.
In the FW the CPAP sets on card board on bedroom slide, in the day time the bedspread hides all.
I was advised of my sleep disorder at Mayo's clinic as the home study put my O2 at less then 80%. The full blown sleep study verified everything and told be not to sleep on my back until after I received the CPAP. I won't say good night until I'm ready for the Mask. Almost immediately I was no longer taking naps and started dreaming again.
Medicare wants the sleep interrupts to be less than 5, the CPAP changed me from 16+ down to about 2 per hour and O2 always above 90%
