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1. Health & Fitness
2. Coronavirus Coverage
WHERE TO BUY N95S, KN95S, AND SURGICAL-STYLE MASKS IN 2021
By Joanne Chen
Updated December 3, 2021
Save
Photo: Sarah Kobos
FYI
* We’ve added a new surgical mask pick: the Medline ASTM Level 1 Procedure Face
Mask with Ear Loops.
December 3, 2021
Save
Although vaccinations are now widely available, recommendations and regulations
are continually in flux, and masks will likely remain a part of people’s lives
for some time. And even though medical-style masks were all but impossible to
find early on in the pandemic (when most were reserved for front-line workers),
they’re now much easier to get—and, in some cases, they’re your best bet for the
most-protective face coverings.
HOW WE PICKED
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Protection
All our picks are either FDA-cleared to block at least 95% of 0.1-micron
particles or lab-tested to confirm similar filtration.
* Good fit and feel
Faces differ, but these masks can be knotted and stretched to stay put on a
range of sizes while providing ample breathing room.
* Legitimacy
We’ve vetted the sellers and manufacturers to ensure that you’re getting the
genuine article.
* Good value
We zeroed in on options that cost less than most other masks providing the
same level of filtration.
Still, separating the good options from the bad can be tough. We’ve tried 37
models and confirmed their filtration claims with government agencies or our own
lab testing performed in collaboration with Colorado State University. Here we
recommend legitimate N95, KN95, and surgical masks you can buy from trusted
retailers now.
For reusable options, consider the picks in our guide to the best cloth masks
for adults. For advice on the best disposable and cloth face masks for children,
see our buying guide to kids face masks.
KIMBERLY-CLARK N95 POUCH RESPIRATOR
A LIGHTWEIGHT, NIOSH-APPROVED N95
This odd-looking, oddly comfortable N95 is a NIOSH-approved respirator meant for
nonmedical use. Its headbands are soft yet help form a tight seal, and its long
nose-bridge wire reduces glasses fogging.
BUYING OPTIONS
$42 from Amazon
(pack of 50)
$346 from Staples
(pack of 300)
Despite its weird duckbill shape, the Kimberly-Clark N95 Pouch Respirator is the
real deal. Its malleable material and soft headbands form a good seal for most
faces, and this mask’s generous cut allows more air to filter in for easier
breathing.
WELLBEFORE WB-N-200 N95 RESPIRATOR MASK
A SUBSTANTIAL, NIOSH-APPROVED N95
Sturdy headbands and ample clearance over the nose and mouth create a snug fit
that still allows for easy breathing. But this N95 is pricier than our other
respirator picks.
BUYING OPTIONS
$2 from WellBefore
The WellBefore WB-N-200 N95 Respirator Mask feels more heavy duty than the
typical disposable bifold respirator. Its adjustable headbands help prevent
gaps, but they aren’t so snug as to be uncomfortable. Plus, this respirator
tents high and wide off the face, so there’s more room to breathe. However, it
costs more than twice as much as our other respirator picks.
POWECOM KN95 RESPIRATOR MASK (EAR LOOPS)
A VERSATILE KN95
This easy-on, easy-off KN95 respirator mask has ear loops that stretch well for
a wider fit but also knot easily for a snugger one.
BUYING OPTIONS
$10 from Bona Fide Masks
(pack of 10)
POWECOM KN95 RESPIRATOR MASK (HEADBANDS)
THE SAME MASK, WITH HEADBANDS
If you prefer headbands to ear loops, you may find that this ear-friendly
respirator mask provides a better fit.
BUYING OPTIONS
$12 from Bona Fide Masks
(pack of 10)
The Powecom KN95 design comes in both ear-loop and headband versions, so you
have a greater chance of finding something that feels right. Its rounded
(instead of flat) fasteners are easier than most to knot, should you need to
adjust the fit. Both versions also come in black.
DEMETECH DEMEMASK SURGICAL MASK
A FLEXIBLE SURGICAL MASK WITH GENTLE EAR LOOPS
Also great for layering, this featherweight surgical mask features notably soft
ear loops and foldable edges. It’s costlier than most disposable pleated masks
but frequently goes on sale.
BUYING OPTIONS
$30 from Amazon
(pack of 50)
$30 from DemeTech
(pack of 50)
The strikingly soft ear loops on the DemeTech DemeMask Surgical Mask are gentle
on the ears. The mask is also FDA-cleared, meeting ASTM Level 3 standards, which
means it blocks 98% of particles as small as 0.1 micron in diameter (when worn
with a good seal; you may need to knot the ear loops and pleat the mask to
achieve this). Besides the typical box of 50, the masks are available in small
batches of 10, in both regular and small sizes, and with ties instead of loops.
MEDLINE ASTM LEVEL 1 PROCEDURE FACE MASK WITH EAR LOOPS
AFFORDABLE AND VERSATILE
The most affordable FDA-authorized disposable mask we’ve seen isn’t particularly
soft, but it is sturdy, and it has generous ear loops.
BUYING OPTIONS
$10 from Medline
(pack of 50)
Surgical masks with proof of high-filtration efficiency typically don’t cost
less than $10 for a box of 50 (before tax and shipping), so we were elated to
find this box of Medline ASTM Level 1 masks, which are capable of blocking at
least 95% of 0.1-micron particles (when worn with a good seal). The ear loops
are slightly wider than most we’ve seen, so they easily fit on larger faces or
knot and fold (video) for a more secure fit on smaller faces.
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EVERYTHING WE RECOMMEND
KIMBERLY-CLARK N95 POUCH RESPIRATOR
A LIGHTWEIGHT, NIOSH-APPROVED N95
This odd-looking, oddly comfortable N95 is a NIOSH-approved respirator meant for
nonmedical use. Its headbands are soft yet help form a tight seal, and its long
nose-bridge wire reduces glasses fogging.
BUYING OPTIONS
$42 from Amazon
(pack of 50)
$346 from Staples
(pack of 300)
WELLBEFORE WB-N-200 N95 RESPIRATOR MASK
A SUBSTANTIAL, NIOSH-APPROVED N95
Sturdy headbands and ample clearance over the nose and mouth create a snug fit
that still allows for easy breathing. But this N95 is pricier than our other
respirator picks.
BUYING OPTIONS
$2 from WellBefore
POWECOM KN95 RESPIRATOR MASK (EAR LOOPS)
A VERSATILE KN95
This easy-on, easy-off KN95 respirator mask has ear loops that stretch well for
a wider fit but also knot easily for a snugger one.
BUYING OPTIONS
$10 from Bona Fide Masks
(pack of 10)
POWECOM KN95 RESPIRATOR MASK (HEADBANDS)
THE SAME MASK, WITH HEADBANDS
If you prefer headbands to ear loops, you may find that this ear-friendly
respirator mask provides a better fit.
BUYING OPTIONS
$12 from Bona Fide Masks
(pack of 10)
DEMETECH DEMEMASK SURGICAL MASK
A FLEXIBLE SURGICAL MASK WITH GENTLE EAR LOOPS
Also great for layering, this featherweight surgical mask features notably soft
ear loops and foldable edges. It’s costlier than most disposable pleated masks
but frequently goes on sale.
BUYING OPTIONS
$30 from Amazon
(pack of 50)
$30 from DemeTech
(pack of 50)
MEDLINE ASTM LEVEL 1 PROCEDURE FACE MASK WITH EAR LOOPS
AFFORDABLE AND VERSATILE
The most affordable FDA-authorized disposable mask we’ve seen isn’t particularly
soft, but it is sturdy, and it has generous ear loops.
BUYING OPTIONS
$10 from Medline
(pack of 50)
Looking for something else?
* THE BEST CLOTH AND DISPOSABLE MASKS FOR KIDS AND TODDLERS
* THE BEST REUSABLE FACE MASKS
* WHY THE BEST KIDS MASKS ARE SOLD OUT (AND WHAT YOU CAN DO IN THE MEANTIME)
* THE BEST RESPIRATOR MASK FOR SMOKE AND DUST
Read more from Health & Fitness
THE RESEARCH
Collapse all
* Why you should trust us
* What is a medical-style mask, and do you need one?
* N95 vs. KN95, KF94, FFP2, and surgical masks
* Our favorite respirator masks
* Our favorite surgical-style masks
* How we picked and tested
* How to reuse disposable face masks
* Other medical-style masks we like
* More NIOSH-approved, NIOSH-assessed, or FDA-authorized masks worth
considering
* More masks (that aren’t FDA-authorized or NIOSH-approved)
* Sources
WHY YOU SHOULD TRUST US
I’ve spent the past several months scrolling through scores of masks online,
poring over documents from the CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety
and Health (NIOSH) and the FDA, and puzzling over little certification slips
half-written in Chinese (a childhood’s worth of Saturday morning Chinese school
has not helped). I’ve done this as part of my reporting for Wirecutter’s guide
to cloth face masks but also for personal reasons: My husband, a teacher, and
child have been attending school in person since September 2020, before vaccines
were available, and we have older parents we’ve been trying to keep safe.
More than a year later, we adults are hoping to get our booster shots soon, my
11-year-old is finally vaccinated, and we’re eager to spend time with family and
friends, schedule doctor visits, and catch up with all the other activities
we’ve missed. Still, unless we’re outdoors, I personally prefer to outfit myself
and my family with highly protective masks that I can trust.
For this guide, I tracked down legitimate respirators and masks, as well as
reliable retailers that sell them. My husband and I tested the masks for fit,
comfort, and (for those who want to layer up) compatibility with our cloth-mask
picks. I also sent the masks to a panel of Wirecutter staffers with different
face shapes, and collected their feedback. Besides consulting five scientists,
I’ve interviewed five manufacturers, three importers, two retailers, an
e-commerce expert, and two government agencies. In all, I’ve so far assessed 23
respirators and 14 surgical-style masks.
WHAT IS A MEDICAL-STYLE MASK, AND DO YOU NEED ONE?
The term “medical-style mask” refers to the types of masks you typically see in
health-care settings. These include respirators, such as those labeled N95
(designed to meet US standards), KN95 (Chinese standards), KF94 (Korean
standards), and FFP2 (European standards), as well as surgical-style masks—the
pleated variety with ear loops or ties that typically come in boxes of 50 or so.
Consisting of high-efficiency filter layers, all of these mask types are
designed to protect the wearer in high-risk situations. (Cloth masks, in
contrast, were initially intended to protect other people from the wearer,
though depending on their materials and design, they can also work the other way
around.)
If you’re spending time among others indoors, visiting a hospital or clinic, or
caring for a COVID-19–positive person (or someone who is vulnerable to a severe
case of COVID-19), you may consider wearing either a respirator mask or a
surgical-style mask modified to form a better seal or layered under a
well-fitting cloth mask. In fact, a CDC paper reported that securing a surgical
mask to the face (by knotting the ear loops and tucking in the sides, as shown
in this video, or by adding a well-fitting cloth face mask over it) can
potentially decrease your exposure to possibly infectious tiny airborne droplets
called aerosols by about 95%, which is also about how well respirators are
expected to perform.
This level of filtration on medical-style masks (assuming they’re genuine) is
better than what you can get from almost all masks made from only cloth, said
Linsey Marr, a professor of engineering at Virginia Tech who is an expert in the
science of aerosols. In fact, when Wirecutter commissioned cloth-mask
filtration-efficiency testing, filter-less, double-layer cloth masks filtered
(at a flow rate similar to what happens with normal talking volume) around 47%
of 0.5-micron particles at best. (Those with incorporated filters, however, such
as the Enro Tech and Happy Masks Pro, filtered similarly to N95s.) If you’re not
vaccinated, Marr “highly recommends” bolstering your well-fitting cloth mask,
whether by wearing a surgical-type mask beneath it or including a good filter
inside it. Vaccinated people may choose to do this as well, depending on the
circumstances.
N95 VS. KN95, KF94, FFP2, AND SURGICAL MASKS
Constructed with multiple layers of nonwoven fabric, an N95 respirator blocks
out at least 95% of particles as small as 0.1 micron in diameter. Surgical N95
respirators offer the added benefit of also having passed tests for such factors
as fluid resistance, biocompatibility, and flammability. All legitimate N95
masks are approved by NIOSH as respirators; surgical N95 models have undergone
additional NIOSH testing to meet specific FDA requirements.
N95 masks fasten snugly to your face with two bands that go around the back of
your head. As with cloth face masks, some people find bands to be easier to
adjust than ear loops—you can play around with knots and positioning to create a
good seal. However, an N95’s elastics tend to be tighter than those on cloth
masks, which some wearers might find suffocating. Some N95 masks, like
Wirecutter’s picks for dealing with smoke and dust, have valves for easier
exhalation, but because they let unfiltered air escape, they are not useful in
preventing the spread of the coronavirus.
KN95 masks (China’s N95 equivalent) should block out 95% of 0.3-micron
particles; KF94 and FFP2, 94%. All are made with similar layers of
high-filtration, nonwoven materials. KN95, KF94, and FFP2 are internationally
sourced respirators and therefore don’t undergo the NIOSH approval process.
Earlier in the pandemic, with N95 respirators in short supply, some of these
masks—if they met certain criteria—were FDA-cleared for workers in health-care
settings under an emergency use authorization (EUA). That authorization has
since been revoked (PDF) due to a replenished supply of N95s, but the FDA
suggests that these previously authorized respirators (such as our pick, the
Powecom) be redistributed for use in nonmedical settings.
Unlike N95 masks, these other respirator masks typically have ear loops instead
of headbands. People often encounter good filtration but a bad fit when shopping
for a KN95. The same goes for N95 masks that aren’t customized (as they
typically would be in a hospital setting). A January 2021 PLOS One article on
mask-fit issues reported that a KN95 was a poor fit for all seven study
participants, while the five N95 masks in the experiment did little
better—failing to fit four out of seven subjects. Even a bit of extra fat in the
chin or a few millimeters in the width of the nose can have an impact on a
respirator’s fit, the authors noted.
Loretta Fernandez, PhD, associate professor of civil and environmental
engineering at Northeastern University, found that a poorly fitting KN95 may
block 0.3-micron particles only as effectively as a poorly fitting surgical
mask—at around 72% efficiency instead of the promised 95%-plus. This level of
performance may be problematic for people working in the ICU but perhaps less so
for someone doing a quick run to the post office. Still, from an economic
perspective, it’s pointless to spend the extra money on a KN95 only to have it
work as effectively a much cheaper mask. Fernandez, who has been assessing masks
(PDF) since the start of the pandemic, noted an easy fix that a dentist shared
with her: By cutting the ear loops on a KN95 mask and reattaching them to form
headbands, the dentist was able to achieve a secure enough fit to nudge the
filtration back up past 90%.
“Generally speaking, if you’re fogging up your glasses, it’s not a perfect
seal.” —Hana Akselrod, George Washington University School of Medicine
Surgical masks are medical devices regulated by the FDA. These masks are
designed to prevent fluid from penetrating the mask (from, say, splattering as a
result of a medical procedure) and potentially harming the wearer. Because they
don’t fit close to the face, they’re not designed to protect the wearer from
inhaling small, potentially infectious particles. Nevertheless, in order to gain
FDA clearance, either through 510(k) or the agency’s emergency use
authorization, surgical masks undergo testing to meet voluntary consensus
standards set by ASTM International (formerly the American Society for Testing
and Materials)—and those standards include achieving a level of filtration
efficiency. Level 1 indicates that the mask blocks out 95% of particles at 0.1
to 5 microns in diameter at certain flow rates following another set of
challenges. Levels 2 and 3 indicate at least 98% for the same particle-size
range.
Medical-grade masks should be fluid resistant and should keep their shape in the
rain better than most cloth masks. Regardless of which type of mask you manage
to get your hands on, however, you won’t come anywhere close to the stated
filtration values in real life unless you secure a perfect seal to your face
around the entire perimeter of the mask. “Generally speaking, if you’re fogging
up your glasses, it’s not a perfect seal,” said Hana Akselrod, assistant
professor of medicine in the division of infectious diseases at George
Washington University School of Medicine. (If you don’t wear glasses, take a big
exhale with your mask on—if you feel a puff of air on your skin near the edges
of the mask, you need a tighter fit.)
OUR FAVORITE RESPIRATOR MASKS
We set out to identify and find authentic disposable respirator masks, from
reputable sellers, that are reasonably priced and well built. We’re continuing
to test these masks for fit and comfort, and we will be trying other options as
they become available.
KIMBERLY-CLARK N95 POUCH RESPIRATOR
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
KIMBERLY-CLARK N95 POUCH RESPIRATOR
A LIGHTWEIGHT, NIOSH-APPROVED N95
This odd-looking, oddly comfortable N95 is a NIOSH-approved respirator meant for
nonmedical use. Its headbands are soft yet help form a tight seal, and its long
nose-bridge wire reduces glasses fogging.
BUYING OPTIONS
$42 from Amazon
(pack of 50)
$346 from Staples
(pack of 300)
What we like: This duckbill-shaped mask is a NIOSH-approved N95 respirator
manufactured in the US. It’s also our favorite because it’s the only one of its
type that actually fit our testers well, and it felt surprisingly comfortable.
Thanks to its soft, flexible construction, the Kimberly-Clark N95 Pouch
Respirator should fit most people. Kimberly-Clark is an established manufacturer
of diapers, tampons, and other personal-care products that humans use against
their bodies, and now the company has leveraged that technology into expanded
mask offerings (before the pandemic, Kimberly-Clark’s manufacturing employees
had used this mask in-house). Because it’s a nonmedical respirator, this mask is
not tested to protect you from potential splatter of bodily fluids.
Soft headbands that easily knot and stretch over various positions on the head
form a good seal and are plenty comfortable for long-term wear. A more cavernous
cut (about an inch wider on each side compared with the typical respirator)
means more filtered air to breathe in. In our experience, a long, sturdy
nose-bridge wire helped minimize glasses fogging, too. I was able to place the
lower band higher on my head to prevent air from escaping around my chin (a pain
point for me with other respirators). This mask doesn’t feel the easiest to
breathe through—but that suggests some degree of filtration efficiency. (“I’m
always suspicious of masks that have little or no breathing resistance to them,”
said Christian L’Orange, the assistant research professor of mechanical
engineering who ran our cloth-mask filtration test at Colorado State
University.) The Kimberly-Clark mask closes absolutely flat without the need for
you to pinch the nose wire closed, as you have to with many other foldable
masks, and at around $1 a mask, it’s also the least expensive NIOSH-approved N95
we’ve seen so far.
What we don’t like: This mask looks ridiculous, particularly compared with sleek
cloth masks. “Our initial focus was offering performance and comfort over form,”
said Rob Hughes, vice president of PPE at Kimberly-Clark Professional. He added
that the company is currently evaluating additional designs. Note, too, that
this mask is truly for one-time use: With too much wear and tear or rough usage,
the bands can rip, and the nose-bridge wire on top can become unstuck.
WELLBEFORE WB-N-200 N95 RESPIRATOR MASK
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
WELLBEFORE WB-N-200 N95 RESPIRATOR MASK
A SUBSTANTIAL, NIOSH-APPROVED N95
Sturdy headbands and ample clearance over the nose and mouth create a snug fit
that still allows for easy breathing. But this N95 is pricier than our other
respirator picks.
BUYING OPTIONS
$2 from WellBefore
What we like: Many NIOSH-approved N95s and headband-style KN95s we’ve tried were
either too large or too tight. The sturdily constructed WellBefore WB-N-200 N95
Respirator Mask also felt large on some of our panelists, but a bit less so, and
more important, it didn’t feel suffocating despite creating a good seal. This is
partly due to the plastic brackets on either side of the mask, which allow you
to tighten the headbands as necessary. But it’s also thanks to the ample
clearance the mask allows over the nose and mouth, which offers plenty of room
for filtered air to circulate. A foam strip over the nose-bridge wire provides
some cushioning.
What we don’t like: “This is a lot of mask,” several testers commented, noting
the WellBefore’s plastic and foam features, wide headbands, and girth. This mask
is also more than twice the price of our other respirator picks, the lighter but
odd-looking Kimberly-Clark N95 and the easy-on, easy-off but less-adjustable
Powecom KN95. These respirators, sold in packages of five or more, also come
individually wrapped (which some people may find beneficial for tossing in a bag
or glove box, though others may find it unnecessary).
POWECOM KN95 RESPIRATOR MASK
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
POWECOM KN95 RESPIRATOR MASK (EAR LOOPS)
A VERSATILE KN95
This easy-on, easy-off KN95 respirator mask has ear loops that stretch well for
a wider fit but also knot easily for a snugger one.
BUYING OPTIONS
$10 from Bona Fide Masks
(pack of 10)
POWECOM KN95 RESPIRATOR MASK (HEADBANDS)
THE SAME MASK, WITH HEADBANDS
If you prefer headbands to ear loops, you may find that this ear-friendly
respirator mask provides a better fit.
BUYING OPTIONS
$12 from Bona Fide Masks
(pack of 10)
What we like: This formerly FDA-emergency-authorized KN95 mask offers some
variety—you can choose from ear loops or headbands, as well as black or white.
We bought Powecom masks directly from the importer and distributor through Bona
Fide Masks, a legit site that’s part of Ball Chain Manufacturing, the largest
manufacturer of ball-chain-related products in the world. (You know, the strings
of metallic beads that keep keys together, switch lamps on and off, and hold
military dog tags.) Thanks to its ball-chain business, the company already had
reliable sources in China, who helped it get in touch with a reliable mask
maker, Guangzhou Powecom. (Recently, Bona Fide Masks became the exclusive
distributor of Powecom KN95s in the US and Canada.)
Powecom has been around since 2009 and is a recognizable name in China for
making masks, even before the pandemic. Its KN95 was FDA-cleared under the
agency’s emergency use authorization during the N95 shortage. When Chinese
authorities updated the KN95 standard this summer, we commissioned Colorado
State University’s Center for Energy Development and Health to verify that the
Powecom mask sold by Bona Fide Masks maintained its high filtration efficiency.
And it did: With a perfect seal, the mask offered more than 99% filtration
efficiency for 0.5-micron-diameter particles drawn through a chamber at a rate
of 15 liters per minute (similar to the rate that a person would exhale when
talking at normal volume). We like that the mask’s fasteners are sturdily
attached (more so than most) and that they knot easily for adjustment. Slightly
rounded, as opposed to flat, they’re somewhat gentler on the ears, too. We also
like that you can choose to buy as few as 10 masks in a pack (though you can
order as many as 10,000). The dimensions were neither too large nor too small
for most of our testers, yet the mask also accommodated one tester who has a
beard (though, of course, facial hair inherently lessens a mask’s seal).
What we don’t like: As with just about all the KN95 masks we’ve tried, it’s
difficult to achieve a good fit with the ear-loops version of this mask. Without
cord locks and malleable fabric, respirators just aren’t as adjustable as cloth
masks. Tying the ear loops helped me block the air from escaping at my chin but
somehow increased the fog on my glasses. In contrast, headbands provide a
snugger fit, though one tester found that the headband version of this mask was
too tight for comfort (and strongly preferred the ear-loops version).
OUR FAVORITE SURGICAL-STYLE MASKS
Surgical masks are less expensive and less thick than N95 designs and other
respirators, but because they tend to gape at the sides, they require some
adjustments for optimal protection. As the CDC recommends, you can knot the ear
loops and tuck the sides (this CDC video shows you how) or add an adjustable
cloth face mask (like one of our picks) on top. You can also do both. We’ve
tried 14 surgical-style masks over the past few months, and for the most part,
the differences have been barely discernible. The DemeTech DemeMask Surgical
Mask and the Medline ASTM Level 1 Procedure Face Mask with Ear Loops are our
favorites because, more than other masks we’ve seen that are reliably in stock,
they’re a good value for the level of protection they offer.
DEMETECH DEMEMASK SURGICAL MASK
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
DEMETECH DEMEMASK SURGICAL MASK
A FLEXIBLE SURGICAL MASK WITH GENTLE EAR LOOPS
Also great for layering, this featherweight surgical mask features notably soft
ear loops and foldable edges. It’s costlier than most disposable pleated masks
but frequently goes on sale.
BUYING OPTIONS
$30 from Amazon
(pack of 50)
$30 from DemeTech
(pack of 50)
What we like: Most disposable pleated masks feel and function about the same,
but the DemeTech DemeMask Surgical Mask is FDA 510(k)-cleared and meets ASTM
Level 3 standards, as it’s capable of blocking 98% of particles as small as 0.1
micron (assuming a good seal). We like its exceptionally soft ear loops, which
feel knitted and don’t dig into the ears as most other elastics do. The loops
are also firmly attached, so when you’re putting this surgical mask on or taking
it off, the fasteners are less likely to pop off (as we’ve found with some
cheaper models). With its soft edges, the DemeMask is easy to knot at the ear
loops and tuck at the sides (video) for a secure fit. We also like that it comes
in a small size, which might work for some bigger kids, and in a tie version,
which may be especially helpful for people who wear hearing aids.
What we don’t like: The DemeMask is costlier than most pleated masks you can
find online or in a drugstore, though its price is roughly in line with that of
masks offering similar filtration credentials, such as the CVS Health Surgical
Face Mask, a former pick. If you’re using these masks only occasionally, you can
opt instead for a pack of 10 for $7.50. You might also find promotions as a
first-time buyer on the DemeTech site.
MEDLINE ASTM LEVEL 1 PROCEDURE FACE MASK WITH EAR LOOPS
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
MEDLINE ASTM LEVEL 1 PROCEDURE FACE MASK WITH EAR LOOPS
AFFORDABLE AND VERSATILE
The most affordable FDA-authorized disposable mask we’ve seen isn’t particularly
soft, but it is sturdy, and it has generous ear loops.
BUYING OPTIONS
$10 from Medline
(pack of 50)
What we like: We’re always down for a bargain, and this box of 50 is available
for the best price we’ve seen so far for an FDA-cleared surgical mask. As its
name indicates, the Medline ASTM Level 1 Procedure Face Mask with Ear Loops
meets ASTM Level 1 standards, which means it blocks at least 95% of particles
measuring 0.1 micron in diameter or larger. That’s 3% less than the Level 3
DemeTech masks can block, but unless you’re a health-care provider in a
high-risk medical setting, that’s not much of a difference. Medline makes its
own masks but also partners with other FDA-cleared manufacturers to avoid stock
shortages, a company spokesperson told us. The Medline mask’s ear loops are
slightly larger than those on the DemeTech mask (and most other surgical-type
masks we’ve seen); this allows them to stretch over wider faces with less
tension on the ears. The extra length of elastic also means you can easily seal
side gaps by knotting the ear loops and tucking in the sides (video).
What we don’t like: Except for their larger ear loops and FDA clearance, the
Medline masks are fairly run-of-the-mill. Their inner lining isn’t particularly
tissue-like as with the CVS version we tried, nor are the ear-loop elastics as
soft or firmly attached as those on the DemeTech mask. Medline says it partners
with other manufacturers besides the one we link to above, but it does not
disclose them. You can confirm that its other overseas manufacturing partners
are indeed FDA 510(k)–cleared by typing the company name (found on the
Certificate of Conformity, a slip of paper enclosed in the box) into the FDA’s
device database.
HOW WE PICKED AND TESTED
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Searching for a reliable respirator or surgical-style mask for a decent price,
particularly earlier in the pandemic, has been the most difficult shopping
experience I’ve ever had. It’s like trying to find the last Lego Star Wars
Advent calendar three weeks before Christmas—but infinitely worse. Aside from
navigating retailers that have long sold out or are price-gouging, you’re also
contending with fraudulent sellers, fraudulent products, or both: The CDC
reports that about 60% of KN95 masks sold in the US are fake. What’s more, there
are sizing issues. Oh, and whatever you buy is typically nonrefundable.
More than a year and a half later, the shortages have eased up, but that doesn’t
make finding the right mask any easier, particularly when it comes to KN95s.
Yes, there’s the counterfeit issue. But also, KN95 and surgical-style masks
don’t always fit very well. As Loretta Fernandez, an associate professor of
civil and environmental engineering at Northeastern University in Boston,
explained, “There’s nothing magical about a KN95. The edges still need to form a
good seal against the face for it to be protective.” The truth is, any
medical-style mask—no matter how superior the filtration—doesn’t do much better
than a quality cloth mask if it allows most of the air you’re breathing to go
around it rather than through it. Proper fit is critical.
As for disposable pleated masks, every neighborhood store and online vendor
seems to sell them these days, but not all of them are actually surgical
masks—just surgical-style, which is why they’re often a third or half the price
of actual authorized surgical masks. The packaging on most simply says “face
mask,” in which case you can’t expect the masks to filter like the kinds of
masks that health-care workers wear in hospitals. In fact, Colorado State
University’s Christian L’Orange—who has tested thousands of masks, including our
picks—told us that the most egregious fails have come from surgical-style masks
as opposed to respirators. Some have exhibited a mere 20% filtration rate on
small particles (about the same as many of the filterless cotton masks we tested
for our guide to cloth face masks), though most of them have demonstrated a
slightly less shocking 70% to 80% rate. Others have appeared to be missing
layers altogether, he said. One way to detect a fake is to hold it top side up
under a dripping faucet: If the droplets soak in instead of completely beading
up, it’s not a real surgical mask, which by definition should have some level of
water resistance.
The CDC reports that about 60% of KN95 masks sold in the US are fake.
We decided to start out with retailers we trust, including Costco, CVS, and
Office Depot. We also perused business-news articles online about US-based
companies that are manufacturing or selling masks, or both. Virginia Tech’s
Linsey Marr suggested buying directly from a reputable supplier whenever
possible, not just grabbing whatever you find from a third-party seller (the
fewer middlemen, the smaller the chance of mischief). So we checked out each
company’s e-commerce site and confirmed that each respirator or surgical mask of
interest is included in one of the following:
* NIOSH maintains a list of approved N95 respirators.
* The FDA’s Personal Protective Equipment EUAs (emergency use authorizations)
Appendix A list of surgical masks and foreign respirator manufacturers
indicates that the manufacturer submitted test reports demonstrating that the
product met certain performance standards, including filtration efficiency,
and that the FDA recognized it. Although health-care workers are now advised
to once again use only NIOSH-approved designs, these masks are still helpful
in everyday settings.
* The FDA has a database of devices that have received 510(k) clearance.
* NIOSH’s International Respirator Assessments evaluate US-sold, foreign-made
respirators only; we look for good results on these tests. Although these
tests aren’t the same as NIOSH approval, they do give mask buyers a sense of
the quality of the materials used.
The “same” mask sold by the same company can differ depending on the retailer.
Sometimes cross-checking wasn’t possible until we received the masks and found
the product qualification certificate—the small slip of paper in the packaging
that includes the details about the product and its manufacturer, which is
usually half written in the language of the country the mask comes from. We also
reached out to some of the manufacturers or the sellers to understand the
vetting or manufacturing process, especially if we couldn’t find the
manufacturing company on any of the above lists.
For masks sold on Amazon, we confirmed with the manufacturer that we had a legit
link to the product it was selling, and if we couldn’t reach the manufacturer
(and if the mask was sold out everywhere except Amazon), we checked that the
mask was both sold and shipped directly by Amazon. Although this factor limits
your choices perhaps unnecessarily, as Kathy Cummins, head of marketing and
analytics at Hinge Global, pointed out, we like the assurance that a specific
inventory of the product has been vetted by Amazon itself, and we appreciate
that shipping by Amazon cuts out the middleman and ensures prompt delivery. A
caveat: The “same” mask sold by the same company can differ depending on the
retailer. For instance, masks manufactured by the Chinese company Winner Medical
that we bought on Amazon consisted of thinner, less-soft mask material than we
found on the Winner Medical masks once sold by CVS, despite their having the
same product name (“Medical Face Mask”), standard certification (ASTM Level 1),
and listed materials (“non-woven 66%; melt blown, 34%”) on the certification
slips. Winner Medical confirmed to us that it designs masks according to a
client’s specifications while still ensuring the same protective effects.
Once we tracked down several masks that we concluded were actually
medical-grade, our job had only just begun. We also needed to assess each mask
in terms of fit and comfort—something far too individual for anyone to judge in
a general sense. Still, we’re doing our best by distributing masks to a diverse
group of nine panelists (two of whom are my husband and me).
When we’ve come across masks that fit and feel great but aren’t NIOSH-approved
or FDA-cleared, we’ve sent samples to Colorado State University’s Center for
Energy Development and Health for filtration efficiency and breathability
testing.
As with our guide to cloth face masks, we’ll continue to add to this list of
trusted respirator and surgical-style masks as new and better options become
available. Stay tuned for future updates.
HOW TO REUSE DISPOSABLE FACE MASKS
Safety comes first during a pandemic, which is why some experts are urging
people to opt for disposable masks with high filtration efficiency when
possible. But the environmental impacts of a far larger population—beyond only
health-care workers—donning masks made of nonrecyclable materials are
significant. The pandemic generates up to an estimated 7,200 tons of medical
waste every day, a large portion of which is disposable face masks, according to
the authors of a July 2021 study published in BMJ Open. Decontaminating an N95
mask for multiple wears could reduce the amount of pandemic-related
environmental waste by 75% or more compared with disposing it after each use,
the authors add. That’s why they’ve been working on developing a fully reusable,
easily sterilizable silicone face mask suitable for health-care workers.
For everyone else, whose risk of exposure is generally far less, there are more
sustainable choices, including reusable cloth masks with high filtration
efficiencies such as the Enro Tech or Happy Masks Pro, both picks in our guide
to the best cloth face masks. Another option is to wear disposable masks more
than once.
Yes, outside of the health-care setting, most people can safely reuse some
disposable face masks. While health-care workers are typically advised to throw
out their masks after a single use, that’s not always necessary for everyone
else. This is especially true given the presence of additional layers of
protection (such as vaccines, social distancing, and good ventilation). As a
result, experts told us, it often makes sense to reuse disposable masks—but
carefully, taking cues from what health-care workers did during the N95
respirator shortage earlier in the pandemic.
As the CDC notes, a mask that has been used for a day can be “stored in a
breathable paper bag until the next week.” (SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes
COVID-19, has an expected survival time of 72 hours.) Even better, consider
exposing a worn mask to sunlight, as doing so may help speed up the
virus-inactivation process. In my home, I have seven paper bags, each one marked
with a day of the week, lined up by a sunny windowsill. At the end of each day,
I drop my used mask in its corresponding bag. After five days (because I prefer
to be extra safe), I move the mask to an eighth bag, which I’ve marked “ready to
wear.”
The CDC guidance, intended for health-care personnel in situations much riskier
than what I experience in my day-to-day routine, notes that masks shouldn’t be
used more than five times. But masks worn by most people in relatively low-risk
situations could probably be worn for considerably longer. “There’s no time
limit for how long a filter will work,” explained Ron Shaffer, former research
chief at the National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory at NIOSH. He
advises throwing away a mask when it’s soiled or worn out, when it no longer
fits well, or when it’s difficult to breathe through. When in doubt, throw it
out.
OTHER MEDICAL-STYLE MASKS WE LIKE
These masks stood out from the rest of the competition because of the positive
response we received from a relatively broad swath of panelists, as well as
their high performance in our filtration-efficiency testing. They aren’t as
affordable as our current picks—but depending on your needs, you may find them
worth the extra expense.
4CAIR AIRETRUST NANO MASK
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
The 4CAir AireTrust Nano Mask is one of the thinnest KN95-type masks we’ve
tried, thanks to its patented nanotechnology. Less like padding and more like
paper, the mask feels light on the face and offers arguably better
breathability. One panelist wore it to pilates: “My face didn’t sweat underneath
it because it’s so light,” they said. “After two minutes, I forgot it was
there.” Because this mask hasn’t yet undergone FDA clearance, we did our own
filtration testing in collaboration with researchers at Colorado State and
confirmed that, as advertised, it has a filtration efficiency of 99% for
particles as small as 0.5 micron. Respirators more often than not come in one
size, so we like that this one comes in three: small (for kids), medium, and
large. The small size even has cord stoppers in the ear loops. All of our
panelists found a size that fit them well, though some found the mask more snug
around the nose (hence no glasses fog) than at the chin. We would make this mask
a pick except that, at more than $3 apiece, it’s much pricier than our picks
from Powecom (88¢ per mask at this writing) and Kimberly-Clark (about 84¢ per
mask). But we’d splurge on a five-pack for $17.50 for the infrequent situations
where we might especially appreciate a mask that’s lighter than most, such as a
lengthy flight or a long doctor’s visit.
KYUNGIN FLAX KF94
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Photo: Sarah Kobos
Because of KF94 masks’ more structured “boat” shape (a horizontal rectangle that
tents up to secure itself over the nose bridge and chin), they’re somewhat
harder to adjust, and our panelists had different opinions on which fit best.
But if you’d like to try one, the Kyungin Flax KF94 may be a good option. Like
most KF94s, which didn’t arrive in the US market until later in the pandemic,
the Kyungin Flax mask hasn’t undergone the process for NIOSH approval or FDA
clearance. So, in collaboration with Colorado State, we filtration-tested the
mask ourselves—and found it to block 99% of particles as small as 0.5 micron.
Overall, most KF94s feel thinner than the N95s and KN95s we tried (except for
the Kimberly-Clark mask we recommend and the 4CAir AireTrust Nano Mask we also
like), and their boat-like shape provides arguably more-reliable clearance over
the nose and mouth. The Kyungin Flax is no different. We also like that, at
about $24 for a pack of 20, it’s around a third to half the price of many others
we’ve seen. However, this mask comes in only one size, which made it harder for
some of our panelists to achieve a solid seal. If you prefer a KF94 mask and
have a narrower chin or smaller face, you might have better luck with masks from
Dr. Puri, Blue, or Etiqa.
MORE NIOSH-APPROVED, NIOSH-ASSESSED, OR FDA-AUTHORIZED MASKS WORTH CONSIDERING
The masks in this section have either undergone the stringent NIOSH testing
required to earn an official N95 designation or submitted the necessary testing
results and paperwork for FDA clearance, whether via a now-revoked emergency use
authorization or the 510(k) process.
Folded flat, most cone-shaped respirator masks—like the Powecom KN95—measure
about 6 inches vertically unless otherwise noted. Yet each one fits differently
depending on how it’s angled around the nose and chin, how pliable the material
is, and whether the fasteners are ear loops or headbands.
Respirator masks
In our experience, the BYD Care KN95 Respirator sealed well, thanks to its more
easily adjustable headband fasteners, but the nose-bridge wire could slide down
the nose and block the airway a bit. This may not be the case for people with
higher nose bridges, though—so, as we’ve mentioned, we’ll continue evaluating
this mask with a diverse panel of testers and update this guide accordingly. The
fasteners have ridges, which improve grip. This KN95 had been listed under the
FDA’s now-revoked emergency use authorization Appendix A.
BYD Care’s nonmedical N95, sold at Office Depot, is NIOSH-approved and is no
longer flagged as “reserved for healthcare workers and first responders.” At
this writing, a box of 20 is now available for $30. Compared with the brand’s
KN95 respirator, this mask has shorter fasteners, which make for a more snug
fit, and a somewhat stouter profile, which allows for more room above the nose
and mouth. However, one tester described it as “actually painful to wear,”
though that’s also the reason why she “trusts” it for doctor’s appointments at a
hospital. (Pre-vaccination, my husband wore this N95 to the New York City public
school where he has been teaching in person; he arrived home to find
“reassuring” imprints on his face. Not everyone feels the same way about an
ultra-snug fit.)
Florida-based wound-care company DemeTech, the maker of our surgical-mask pick,
launched its respirator production early on in the pandemic. We like that the
NIOSH-approved DemeTech respirators come in two designs (cup and foldable) and
each in regular or small size. With their sturdy, ridged headbands, you can play
with the positioning of these respirator masks for a better fit. My husband and
I tried the regular-size foldable masks, and they stood up slightly less high
off our faces, especially near the nose, compared with other masks we tried. But
they formed a decent seal and, as other panelists noted, also felt lighter. At
$75 for a box of 20, they’re as pricey as another lightweight respirator we
tried, the 4CAir AireTrust Nano Mask. If you need just a few, a pack of five is
available for less than $20.
Measuring just 5 inches vertically from top to bottom, the Korean-made and
NIOSH-approved Dobu Mask 500 N95 is likely best for people with smaller faces;
it barely covered my husband’s mouth, and other testers on our panel equated it
to wearing a bra cup or hamburger bun on their face. (It fit two panelists
perfectly, though.) A bracket keeps the fabric off the face, and a ring of soft,
cotton-tee-like material surrounds the nose and mouth while somehow creating a
comfortable seal without a nose-wire bridge. Plastic adjusters on each side
easily help you tighten the ridged headbands. You can press this mask in half,
but because of the bracket, it doesn’t stay folded like the others on this list.
It’s also somewhat thicker overall. We’ve confirmed that the mask, available on
Amazon (marked “sold and shipped by Dobu Mask”), is legitimate. As expected, the
extra hardware makes for a more expensive mask (10 for $40) compared with most
we’ve considered.
The much cheaper, foldable NIOSH-approved Dobu Mask 201 N95 fits snug like the
BYD Care N95 but with slightly less clearance over the nose and mouth, and
arguably a more gentle touch. Unlike the BYD Care N95, “they don’t dig into my
eyes,” said one panelist. If you go through N95s on a regular basis (like my
husband, who wears one to teach in-person classes every day), the Dobu masks can
get pricey (at this writing, they’re nearly $40 for a pack of 25 on Amazon). For
a more affordable, similarly shaped mask, consider the Powecom KN95 (sold in a
headband option at about $1 per mask). Its elastics feel a bit looser but still
create a secure—and generally more comfortable—seal, according to our panelists.
The Dr. Puri Micro-Dust Protection Mask isn’t NIOSH-approved, but a June 2020
filtration test run by NIOSH (PDF) on samples sent to the agency reported that
it blocked more than 99% of 0.3-micron particles. It fit most of our panelists,
though some testers thought it sat too close to the mouth despite its typical
KF94 rectangular boat shape. Some testers said the masks smelled funny (“dusty,”
described one panelist); we’d take these masks out of the packaging and let them
air out before wearing. We confirmed that the mask sold via this Amazon link
(labeled “sold by Dr. Puri Official”) is legitimate, and it’s at a slightly
lower price than we’ve seen elsewhere.
FLTR sells the NIOSH-approved manufactured-in-China N95 Round Respirator, which
we haven’t tried. Considering that it’s sold only in bulk (100 masks for $320 at
the time of our review), we thought it was cost-prohibitive for people who’d
like to make sure their mask fits before going all-in.
The Harley Commodity N95 Particulate Respirator, sold at Bona Fide Masks, may be
a better fit than most for people with larger faces. It measures about a
quarter-inch greater vertically, from tip to tip, compared with the 6-inch
Powecom KN95—so it hits the corner of my eyes. I can breathe better in it,
though, since the nose portion (complete with a nose pad) has a less-steep
slope. If it’s the right size for your face, you’re likely to get a decent seal
with the ridged, sturdily affixed, elastic headbands. And the mask is
NIOSH-approved (see Guangzhou Harley).
The United States Mask Particulate Respirator N95 is manufactured domestically
and NIOSH-approved. Similar in size vertically to the Harley Commodity mask
(about 6¼ inches), it hits my lower eyelids. Its around-the-head bands are easy
to knot for a good seal, assuming the mask fits your face. It also costs less
(around $45 for 20 masks) than most other bifold-style N95s, which typically run
about $3.50 or more per mask.
The Honeywell DF300 N95 Particulate Disposable Respirator is similar to the BYD
KN95: It too offers a more snug fit for small faces than the Harley Commodity
and United States Mask models. A piece of foam cushions its sturdy, pliable
nose-bridge wire. It’s a bit pricier than our picks but cheaper than most others
on this list. It’s also NIOSH-approved.
The Makrite 910 is a duckbill-shaped N95 like the Kimberly-Clark mask we
recommend, but it is not nearly as comfortable. The thick material proved much
less breathable for our testers, and the headbands looked and felt like thick,
albeit smooth, rubber bands. The nose-bridge wire is cushioned by a foam strip,
however, and this model is NIOSH-approved. You can play around with the bands
for a better seal, but overall we found this mask to be quite restrictive and
suffocating.
We were quite excited about the NIOSH-approved RespoKare N95 Respirator Mask’s
pretty blue color and comfortable nose-bridge cushion, but some panelists found
that the ear straps snapped off easily. While the large size was too large for
many panelists (it might be good if you’ve determined that most masks are too
small for you), the medium size was much smaller—and, in fact, too small for me.
These masks have a strong vinegary smell out of the package, and they cost
considerably more than our picks.
Surgical-style masks
We like the CVS Health Surgical Face Mask, but consistent stock issues keep it
from being a pick in this guide. This mask has a strikingly softer
underlayer—much softer than that of most other surgical masks we’ve tried,
including our pick from DemeTech. It also meets ASTM Level 2 standards, which
means it can filter out at least 98% of 0.1-micron particles, assuming a perfect
seal. The generous ear loops should help this mask fit wider faces, and they’re
easily knotted for narrower ones.
MORE MASKS (THAT AREN’T FDA-AUTHORIZED OR NIOSH-APPROVED)
Just because a mask isn’t cleared by these agencies doesn’t necessarily mean it
performs poorly, though it’s hard to know for sure. FDA clearance and NIOSH
approval can take many months and can cost a good amount of money—some companies
decide not to bother, while others have submitted the paperwork but are still
awaiting a decision.
Respirator masks
As with many K94s we tried, the Blue KF94-3D Mask fit some of our panel testers
well but left gaps on others. Our panelists agreed, however, that it felt
lightweight. According to its packaging and authorized seller Be Healthy (a
longtime trusted source for Korean imports), this mask is approved by the Korean
Ministry of Food and Safety; for confirmation, we reached out to the makers of
Blue masks, as well as to the Korean Ministry of Food and Safety, but we didn’t
receive responses. We elected not to send the Blue mask out to Colorado State
for filtration-efficiency testing because, besides lacking broad fit appeal, it
costs more than the Dr. Puri and Kyungin Flax KN94 masks we prefer—and it is
considerably more expensive than our picks.
The Etiqa Airway Round Mask is neither FDA-cleared nor NIOSH-approved, but
according to its packaging and seller Be Healthy, it has been approved by the
Korean Ministry of Food and Safety. (The colorful variants have not undergone
the Korean Ministry of Food and Safety approval process, though the materials
are similar.) We didn’t include this mask in our filtration testing, nor did we
investigate it further, because too many panelists complained of fit issues (it
didn’t grasp the chin very well). And many testers noted that it had a strong
scent out of the package that didn’t fade quickly. It sells for a rather pricey
$4 a mask and is currently out of stock.
The seller of the FLTR95 Sealing Face Mask, available at Costco in a pack of
100, provided us lab documentation from a third-party lab demonstrating
filtration results similar to those of KN95s. However, it blocked out the mask
manufacturer’s name, citing proprietary information, and the manufacturer’s name
wasn’t translated on the certification slip, as it typically is and has been for
nearly every other mask we’ve tested. These masks, which come in white or black,
are similar in shape (measuring 6 inches vertically, tip to tip) and elastic to
the Powecom KN95 masks. But they are a tad longer horizontally and come only in
an ear-loop option.
The SupplyAid KN95 Protective Face Mask, sold in a pack of five, is not
FDA-cleared. But we noticed that a packet we ordered from Amazon was
manufactured by Suzhou Letian Protective Products Co., similar to a packet that
had been filtration-tested by NIOSH, and that assessment found that the masks
blocked out particles to an extent similar to N95s. (However, this is just one
set of criteria that a respirator must pass to become a NIOSH-approved N95, and
the results are indicative only of the specific packets tested.) We ordered
another set of SupplyAid masks and found them to be made by the same
manufacturer, but packets we ordered from Home Depot were made by another
manufacturer, whose batch had not been NIOSH-tested. We’ve reached out multiple
times to SnowJoe, SupplyAid’s outdoor-equipment parent company, for
clarification but haven’t heard back. So we don’t know for sure whether the
version we bought on Amazon will continue to be manufactured by Suzhou Letian.
Surgical-style masks
Armbrust Surgical Masks aren’t FDA-authorized, but the CEO tells us that the
company has been undergoing the process for the past few months. (On its
website, Armbrust shares a third-party lab report suggesting that the mask meets
ASTM Level 3 filtration standards.) Armbrust offers a fun range of color options
typically not seen in masks, such as denim, orange, and green. The mask feels a
tad softer and thinner than most of the surgical-style masks we’ve tried. The
nose-bridge wire feels sturdier, too, and the fasteners knot easily for a good
fit. Frequently on sale, these masks are a good choice if you can’t get ahold of
the DemeTech or Medline masks, or if you just want to add a burst of color to
your mask wardrobe.
At around $12 for 75 masks, the FLTR General Use Face Mask, sold at Costco, is
one of the least-expensive surgical-style masks we’ve seen. However, it isn’t
FDA-cleared. Like the company’s KN95-style masks, these pleated masks have been
tested by a third-party lab and found to meet ASTM Level 1 standards (blocking
out at least 95% of 0.1-micron particles). The company redacted the
manufacturer’s name in the paperwork, again for “proprietary” reasons. (This
mask is currently out of stock on Costco’s site but is available when purchased
from Costco via Instacart. We also spotted boxes on Amazon, but those are from
third-party sellers we haven’t vetted.)
Unilever sells its Lifebuoy Face Mask at Target. A company spokesperson told us
that third-party lab testing has shown this mask meets ASTM Level 1 filtration
standards (95%), but the company doesn’t share results. At about $20 for 50
masks (at this writing), the pricing isn’t a notable bargain for a
non-FDA-cleared box of masks.
SOURCES
1. Hana Akselrod, MD, assistant professor of medicine in the division of
infectious diseases, George Washington University School of Medicine, phone
interview, February 23, 2021
2. Kathy Cummins, head of marketing and overseer of research and data
analytics, Hinge Global, phone interview, February 24, 2021
3. Loretta Fernandez, PhD, associate professor of civil and environmental
engineering at Northeastern University, phone interview, February 23, 2021
4. Christian L’Orange, PhD, associate director of the Center for Energy
Development and Health, and assistant professor of research in mechanical
engineering, Colorado State University, phone interview, February 3, 2021
5. Linsey Marr, PhD, professor of civil and environmental engineering,
Virginia Tech, email interview, February 9, 2021
6. Nikki McCullough, PhD, global technical services and regulatory director,
3M Personal Safety Division, phone interview, January 19, 2021
7. Bryan Ormond, PhD, assistant professor of textile engineering, Textile
Protection and Comfort Center, Wilson College of Textiles, North Carolina
State University, phone interview, June 12, 2020
8. Kristen Picard, product marketing director, Honeywell, phone interview,
February 11, 2021
9. Chris Plotz, director of education and technical affairs, INDA (Association
of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry), phone interview, March 2, 2021
10. Nura Sadeghpour, health communications specialist, CDC/NIOSH, email
interview, February 24, 2021
11. Ron Shaffer, PhD, former research branch chief, National Personal
Protective Technology Laboratory, NIOSH, phone interview, June 29, 2020
12. Shirley Simson, press officer, FDA, email interview, February 24, 2021
ABOUT YOUR GUIDE
Joanne Chen
Joanne Chen is Wirecutter’s senior staff writer reporting on sleep and, on
occasion, other lifestyle topics. Previously, she covered health and wellness as
a magazine editor. After an assignment forced her to sleep eight hours a day for
a month, she realized that she is, in fact, a smarter, nicer person when she
isn’t sleep-deprived.
Further reading
* THE BEST CLOTH AND DISPOSABLE MASKS FOR KIDS AND TODDLERS
by Christina Szalinski
The best mask for kids is the one they’ll put on and keep on. We have six to
recommend that are comfortable, breathable, and fit a range of ages.
* THE BEST REUSABLE FACE MASKS
by Joanne Chen
The “best” cloth face mask is the one you’ll wear (and not fuss with). Here’s
how to find a mask that fits, filters well, and is reasonably comfortable.
* WHY THE BEST KIDS MASKS ARE SOLD OUT (AND WHAT YOU CAN DO IN THE MEANTIME)
by Joanne Chen
Many of the best-filtering kids face masks are out of stock. We share what
happened and offer other options you can get right now.
* THE BEST RESPIRATOR MASK FOR SMOKE AND DUST
by Tim Heffernan
These masks work to block particulate inhalation in conditions ranging from
wildfire smoke to dusty home projects.
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