In the quiet hours of the night, where rest should provide solace, many find themselves struggling with snoring, interrupted breathing, and restless nights.
For Dale Miller, this struggle was deeply personal, transforming him from a man seeking relief to a visionary reshaping the world of sleep medicine.
Through his invention, the Chin-Up Strips, Dale has not only improved his own life but also helped thousands worldwide achieve the rest they deserve.
Dale’s journey began with denial. Snoring, he thought, was harmless—an inconvenience at most. “My snoring is not a problem,” he would tell himself, brushing aside concerns from his RN spouse.
Yet, the signs were all there. Friends on golf trips refused to share a room, and restless nights left him struggling during the day. His wake-up call came in 1994 at depositions while representing clients injured in an automobile accident where the oncoming driver apparently fell asleep at the wheel, crossed the centerline and collided head on with our client’s vehicle.
“While deposing the surviving spouse of the deceased driver, she testified the deceased driver had sleep issues with loud snoring and daytime sleepiness similar to what my RN spouse described about ME,” Dale expressed.
After that deposition, Dale asked his spouse to schedule a hospital sleep study for him. The sleep study at Marshfield Clinic in Marshfield WI, revealed the seriousness of his personal sleep issues: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The diagnosis was stark, where he stopped breathing 22 times an hour.
For Dale, this discovery was life changing. He was prescribed Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, and within a week, the transformation was undeniable.
“I felt energized, my nasal passages were clear, and for the first time in years, I stopped snoring,” he recalls. Yet, while CPAP offered relief, it came with its own set of challenges—dry mouth, air leaks, and discomfort from the mask. The solution to these problems would become the cornerstone of Dale’s legacy.
Innovation Born from Necessity
In 1995, determined to improve his CPAP experience, Dale devised the Chin-Up Strips—a U shaped strip of medical grade adhesive tape that supports the chin and promotes nasal breathing.
Unlike chin straps, which often caused jaw discomfort, Chin-Up Strips offered a more natural and comfortable solution. During a follow-up sleep study, Dale tested his invention and found it worked seamlessly, addressing issues like dry mouth and air leaks with Cpap, often referred to as oral venting.
Encouraged by his doctor to get the product patented, Dale embarked on a journey that would change not just his life but the lives of countless others. “I believe CPAP therapy and Chin-Up Strips have extended my life,” he shares. My father passed away in his sleep at age 65 in 1983, after years of loud snoring,” he shares.
“I was on the same path. Chin-Up Strips not only saved my life but also allowed me to live fully with more energy and without daytime sleepiness caused by OSA.”
At 82, Dale credits these tools for his vibrant health and the deep connection he shares with his wife of 60 years in 2024. “We sleep peacefully together every night. CPAP and Chin-Up Strips have truly been life changing and may have saved our marriage,” says Dale.
“I developed our Chin-Up Strip business because number of women, whom I represented in divorce cases, told me their marriage began to dissolve because loud snoring led to separate bedrooms and a loss of intimacy.”
“I feel I extended my life and my marriage because I found a comfortable way to stop my loud snoring. Hence, I decided I may be able save other marriages and help people who snore and encourage people to get tested for obstructive sleep apnea.”
“More than 50 percent of our daily users of Chin-Up Strips also use Cpap because they prevent oral venting and dry mouth issues. If they stay on their prescribed Cpap therapy, they improve their health, their relationship with their significant other and life expectancy,” he added.
Building A Legacy of Restful Nights
What started as a personal quest has grown into a global mission. Chin-Up Strips, under Dale’s leadership, have sold over 10 million units worldwide. The product’s success lies not just in its simplicity but in its proven effectiveness.
By reducing mouth breathing and promoting nasal airflow, Chin-Up Strips have helped countless individuals adhere to CPAP therapy which is a critical factor in managing sleep apnea.
For Dale, the journey is about more than numbers. It’s about stories of the patients who share how the strips transformed their nights, the families who found peace because a loved one could finally sleep soundly.
“The most rewarding part is knowing we’re making a difference,” he says.
When Dale embarked on his mission to improve sleep health, safety and comfort were at the forefront of his innovation. The Chin-Up Strip was not just another product in the market. It was a solution rooted in careful research and a commitment to improving lives.
“Chin-Up Strips support the chin-up position during sleep,” says Dale, pointing to the findings of a pivotal hospital sleep lab study conducted at the Division of Pulmonary Medicine at the University of Kentucky.
The study tested patients using a Chin-Up Strip along with a Breathe Right nasal strip. The results were groundbreaking.
“Clinical implications indicated the combination is an effective alternative treatment for a primary snorer, as well as for mild Obstructive Sleep Apnea patients who are not surgical candidates or cannot tolerate CPAP.”
These findings were later published in the prestigious CHEST Medical Journal, solidifying Chin-Up Strips as a trusted solution in sleep medicine.
The significance of this innovation becomes even clearer when considering the challenges faced by CPAP users. “Studies indicate 60% of CPAP users may stop using their machine in the first year, primarily because of dry mouth issues and or CPAP mask discomfort,” Dale explains. With a Chin-Up Strip one can use the simple “nasal pillows” option and avoid mask discomfort.
Many of these patients continue to suffer due to oral venting during sleep, which is a problem the Chin-Up Strip effectively addresses. Most individuals diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) are nocturnal mouth breathers, making this solution a critical component of their therapy.
However, Dale’s journey wasn’t without challenges. In the early stages of development, he explored alternative methods, including mouth taping, only to uncover its dangers.
“When we tested the Mouth Taping method, we found it to be a choking danger,” Dale recalls. “When one coughed during sleep, expelled air and phlegm would blast back into the throat and lungs, often causing a wake-up with choking issues. If food particles were coughed up during sleep, a significant choking danger existed if the mouth was taped shut.”
It was these findings that shaped the final design of Chin-Up Strips. “With a Chin-Up Strip, the upper lip is free to allow air to be expelled comfortably when coughing during sleep, thereby maintaining deep sleep and pleasant dreams all night long.”
Dale’s innovation not only solved the immediate problems faced by CPAP users but also offered a safer, more comfortable alternative to other methods. Another concern with “mouth taping”
Involved the issue of “sore lips” that result from the daily application and removal of adhesive mouth tape applied directly to the tender and sensitive lip tissue.
Advocating for Better Sleep Health
Dale’s role extends far beyond inventor and CEO. As an advocate for sleep health, he has dedicated himself to educating others about the importance of restful sleep.
From speaking at support groups across the U.S. to engaging with medical professionals at conferences, Dale has made it his mission to spread awareness about sleep apnea and its solutions.
One of his most memorable moments was speaking at Stanford, where the term “sleep apnea” was first coined. “It’s not just about selling a product,” Dale explains. “It’s about equipping people with the knowledge they need to take control of their health.” His advocacy efforts reflect his deep belief that education is the key to improving health outcomes.
Reflections of an Inventor
Dale’s leadership philosophy is shaped by his own experiences. “Accept the truth about your condition and take responsibility for your health,” he advises.
This mantra has guided not only his personal journey but also his approach to running Chin-Up Strip Co. His approach to business is marked by an understanding of the challenges his customers face and a determination to help them overcome those obstacles.
As Dale reflects on his journey, he is filled with gratitude for the healthcare professionals who supported him, for the patients who trusted his product, and for the opportunity to make a difference.
Today, Dale continues to play golf three times a week, weather permitting, enjoying the health and vitality that seemed out of reach decades ago. His story is one of resilience, proving that with determination and innovation, it’s possible to turn personal challenges into life-changing solutions.
Dale Miller’s work is far from being done. As he looks to the future, his focus remains on expanding the reach of Chin-Up Strips and advocating for better sleep health. His journey is a reminder that even the simplest ideas, born out of necessity, can transform lives.
For those battling sleep apnea and its challenges, his message is clear: restful sleep is not a dream, it’s a reality waiting to be claimed.
Real Stories of Restful Nights
For countless individuals struggling with CPAP therapy, Chin-Up Strips have become a game-changer. These testimonials showcase how the product has helped users overcome common challenges like dry mouth, discomfort from traditional chin straps, and sleep disruptions.
From improving CPAP usage to enhancing overall comfort and safety, Chin-Up Strips have transformed the way people experience restful sleep.
Let’s read how this simple yet innovative solution has not only made CPAP therapy manageable but has also helped the world sleep better.
Minnesota Customer Says:
“I got my CPAP machine about a year ago. After three weeks, I stopped using it. I could not get used to the dry mouth and throat every morning. Recently, I discovered your chin-up strip, and I am using my CPAP, and your chin-up strip every night. I wake up feeling great.” Texas Customer Told Us: “I purchased the chin-ups a while ago, but recently had another sleep study and finally got my CPAP. I used Chin-up strips for the sleep study too. I BELIEVE IN THIS PRODUCT!
Tennessee Customer Says:
“I like your product very much. I am a female and my skin is delicate. Nevertheless, I have had no irritation from using your Chin-Up Strips.”
Oregon Customer Says:
Your chin-up strips have dramatically changed my life, and I want to personally thank you for your efforts. Before I learned about your chin-up strips, I was ready to quit using CPAP. With Chin-up, CPAP works for me.
Illinois Customer Says:
I am using the Chin-Up Strip in conjunction with my CPAP machine…i.e. if I wake up at 2/3AM to the bathroom then I use chin-up as I cannot fall back to sleep with the CPAP. If I take a weekend trip, then I use chin-up and breathe right combo and leave the CPAP at home. This plan has been working well. Thank You.
Illinois Customer Says:
Found your website and read the statistics about how many people are injured and even killed by drivers like me. I went to a sleep lab, and they found I had sleep apnea. I now use CPAP and your chin-up strip. I no longer fall asleep driving. Thank You!
California Customer Says:
I ordered Chin-ups from your company. I have run out of them, and I am in desperate need of them. I cannot use my CPAP without them. Please rush them to me even if you must use FedEx overnight.
Montana Customer Says:
I use CPAP and my mouth falls open. I used to wake up with a very dry mouth. A friend from our Sleep Support Group “raved” about the Chin-Up Strip and CPAP combination, called my doctor for chin-up samples. They help a lot!
Oklahoma Customer Says:
I use chin-up strips with my CPAP machine to keep my mouth closed. I tried the chin strap, and it was hell to use with the CPAP headgear. I was ready to give up the machine. Then I discovered the Chin-Up Strip. Now I sleep better, and I am still using my CPAP machine.
Arizona Customer Says:
The Chin Strap that came with my CPAP machine causes me to wake up during the night. I hate it! It makes me grind my teeth and the right side of my face hurts when I wake up in the morning. Your Chin-Up Strips allow me to sleep comfortably.
A Product That Transforms Lives
For those seeking relief from the disruptive effects of snoring, Chin-Up Strips have proven to be a dependable solution. These testimonials showcase how the product has effectively addressed issues like chronic snoring, dry mouth, and interrupted sleep, often succeeding where other remedies have failed.
From bringing couples back to restful nights together to improving breathing and sinus health, Chin-Up Strips have delivered life-changing results.
Take a look at these real-life stories and discover how this innovative product is redefining sleep quality for snorers everywhere.
Santa Barbara, California:
“The Chin-up strips work! I’ve tried drops, sprays, pills, nose straps, a chin strap, nose ring, mouthpiece, even a cervical collar. Chin-up strips are the only thing that stopped my snoring completely while sleeping on my back.”
Oliver from Virginia Beach:
“I have compared your chin-up strips with new Sleep Angel. Your chin up strip is still the undefeated champion!! I have been using chin up strips for over a year now and they work perfectly for me. ‘To realistically say they have increased the quality of my Sleep at least 50%. No, make that 100%. They have helped me that much. Thanks for the great product! I breathe effortlessly at night now!”
Jill from Maryland:
“I’ve been using your white Chin-Up Strips. They are WONDERFUL! I continue to discover the benefits of the strips. Not only can my husband sleep, but I also don’t have coughing fits at night and dry mouth in the morning.”
Indiana Customer:
“Your chin-up strips work great for me. My wife is back in our bed.”
California Customer:
“I like your product very much. I am a female and my skin is delicate. Nevertheless, I had no irritation from your Chin-Up Strips.”
Texas Customer:
“The chin up strip is the perfect solution for me! Even with the moustache, the strip works beautifully.”
Michigan Customer:
“I ordered one month supply of Chin-up strips about two months ago. They work great.”
Tennessee Customer:
“Received your 30-day supply of Chin-up snoring strips. I have been using it for 10 nights now. My wife is happy. She said: You sleep quietly now. Your snoring stopped.”
Georgia Customer:
“Chin-Up is great for us! My husband sleeps 6-7 hours straight now. He does not wake up every two hours like he used to. sleep better too. Thank You.”
Jill S. from Maryland:
“Because I breathe through my nose when wearing the strip, I have found my sinus passages are much clearer in the morning when I wake up. I also get a good night’s sleep! Many thanks!”
