In the ongoing fight against air pollution, particularly in cities like Beijing, mask protection is a priority. Smart Air tested 15 masks, including N95 and N99, weighing factors such as price, comfort, and fit. Check out our recommendations and handy tips when choosing a mask that fits your needs.
Does a Mask Help with Air Pollution?
We know that masks can capture tiny particles, but whether they work when we are wearing them. The challenge is to measure their performance while wearing them. It requires a US$10,000 fit-test machine. Fortunately, after begging and begging, the 3M company allowed us to borrow it.
We tested a range of common masks in China, from the priciest to the cheapest, including cotton surgical masks, N90, N95, and N99. The brands tested included 3M, Vogmask, Honeywell, and Venus. Although surgical masks performed worse than dedicated PM2.5 masks like the 3M 9332 mask, when there is nothing else, I will still grab one and protect myself. They still do a fairly good job, capturing 63% of tiny PM2.5 pollution particles.
Read more: Do Pollution Masks Really Work?
Tips for Choosing the Right Mask
Most of the 3M masks can reach 99% efficiency, but which one should I choose? When choosing a mask, we also need to consider price, comfortability, and whether it fits the size of your face. Here are our recommendations and tips when choosing a mask for yourself.
3M 9332 Mask
Price: 15 RMB
99% fit effectiveness
This mask is designed for larger faces with large surface area, making it easy to breathe. It also has a valve to make it less sweaty in the summer.
3M 9501/9502 Mask
Price: 5 RMB
97% fit effectiveness
These masks are a bit smaller, if you have a small face, you can give it a try. The 9501 comes with round-the-ear loops, while the 9502 wraps around the head giving more comfort when wearing it for a long time, but it may mess up your hair. The 9501v and 9502v are identical but come with valves to avoid excessive sweating, making them suitable for activities like exercising.
Make sure you test the mask when you wear it for the first time!
Read more on how to do a poor man’s fit test on masks.
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