The new Covid variants have caused a spike in the purchase of face masks for children and adults. And if you’re planning to hang out in public, ensure that your mask fits you correctly– especially if you’re high-risk. Below we’ve listed a few online and brick-and-mortar places where you can purchase new masks.
Best N95 Masks for Adults
Amston Model N95 Respirator Masks $34 (pack of 20)
This mask is approved by the CDC and has two straps that fit rather snugly around your face. These masks are used by public health professionals and allow enough room to breathe comfortably. They won’t become damp with exhalation and they don’t fold. You can find them at Sears and on Amazon.
Wwdoll KN95 Masks 50 Count for $85 (pack of 50)
If you prefer a cloth face mask for daily usages such as a quick run to the store, or an evening job, these masks may be a good fit. These masks aren’t suitable for high-risk individuals or anyone working in a medical setting. However, they do have a comfortable fit, are less expensive, and come in a variety of colors.
3M Aura N95 Respirator Face Masks $21 (pack of 10)
The NIOSH-approved N95 respirators by 3M are individually wrapped. They have two horizontal folds which create a good-sized cup in front of your nose and mouth. To ensure a tight seal, the masks have two straps that can be worn over your neck and head.
Best Children N95 Masks
Children require smaller masks to fit their faces snugly. Here are some of the best ones on the market.
Children’s Reusable Mask by AirPop $20 (pack of 4)
Masks for children are more complicated because they’re not regulated by the health agencies in the same way. However, this pack is one we love. It can be reused and are suitable for children aged 3 to 12 years. They’re available in white, blue, pink, and white. These masks are suitable for children who have a hard time wearing non-cloth masks.
Project N95 Kids KN95 Respirators Print (box of 20)
These small face masks are perfect for young children of ages 5-12. They have an adjustable nose piece, ear loops, and a silicone nose pad for additional comfort. They come in both a duck print and flower design.
Project N95, is a non-profit organization that provides resources to help you live and work in safety during the Covid pandemic. They’re a non-profit and they have scores of different face masks, respirators, and various types of testing equipment. If you’re looking for an n95 mask or one for your children, be sure to check them out.
Why N95 Masks?
N95 masks are always the best face mask option for preventing a covid infection. Why? Because they meet certain standards when it comes to quality. These standards are set by the
National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH).
This type of mask is often referred to as a “resipirator” due to its filtering capabilities. If you’re looking for a surgical-style mask, find one that is 3-ply. They have a better filtering system than cloth masks, which don’t protect very well against the virus, and they have a more reliable fit–which is crucial.
Note that the gaps between your face in the mass can be a major reason why some surgical or cloth masks aren’t effective. Those small gaps can allow air to pass through and into your nose and mouth. A good N95 mask should fit your head snuggly, which makes you more protected.
The NIOSH does not have any approval marks, however, any respirators approved by the organization will have an approval number that begins with “TC” and is followed by seven digits. You can also visit their website to verify the approval number.
A genuine N95 mask will have a TC number, brand name, the NIOSH logo, a model number, and a lot number. These markings should be visible regardless of any decorative fabrics or material add-ons.
Investing in a good respirator mask is essential to your safety, whether you’re vaccinated or not. You also want to ensure that you’re maintaining social distance, washing your hands frequently (and when you enter your home after coming from outside) and that you get vaccinated if you haven’t already. Stay safe!