Masks are effective protection from airborne pollutants such as PM2.5, viruses, bacteria and allergens. In general, there are 2 common types of masks: surgical masks and respirators like N95 and N99 masks. DIY face masks can be used when surgical masks and respirators are not available. Read more to learn if masks actually work, how long masks can be used and how to wash them.
Is KN95 the same as N95? With such similar-sounding names, it can be confusing to understand the difference between N95 and KN95 masks. This handy chart explains the similarities and differences between N95 and KN95 masks. N95 vs. KN95 Comparison Chart Source: 3M – Comparison of FFP2, KN95, and N95 …
Mask ratings can be confusing: N95, KN95, FFP1, FFP2, P2, or surgical mask? This quick run-down of mask specifications covers mask types, mask ratings, and their effectiveness at filtering particles. Let’s begin by discussing mask types or certification types. There are generally three commonly used, disposable masks: single-use face masks, …
Surgical masks are designed to be worn in one direction only. However, it can be difficult to know which way a medical face mask should go. Should the blue side be outward or inward? And what about those all-white surgical masks? In this article, we’ll cover how to wear a …
A lot of people stocked up on masks during COVID, and now those masks are collecting dust. Will they still be effective when the next pandemic hits? Do masks expire? A 2019 NIOSH study put it to the test. They measured the fit effectiveness of 293 old N95 masks stored …
People want to look good while staying safe and removing the stigma that respirators are only for sick people. That’s inspired some artistic people to start selling mask chains online. They look like jewelry, making your respirator stylish. But some people online say that wearing a chain could ruin your …
Wildfires create a serious amount of smoke and air pollution. Wildfire smoke can cause short and long-term health impacts. That’s why it’s important to know how to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Wildfire smoke is a form of air pollution. It contains dangerous VOC gases and small particles (PM2.5) that …
How long can you wear face masks? How often you should replace your surgical or N95 mask depends on who you ask. The WHO recommends changing surgical masks every 4 hours. If that’s true, that means a lot of masks and a lot of waste. To find out how long …
KN95 masks are one of the most popular respiratory masks on the market for COVID-19 protection. The CDC states that authentic KN95 masks provide the highest protection against COVID-19. The issue is the CDC stated that 60% of KN95 masks on the market do not actually pass KN95 standards. So …
Every year, as winter blankets India, over a billion people find themselves navigating through streets filled with toxic, polluted air. Whether in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, or Hyderabad, the question on everyone’s mind becomes: Do face masks and air pollution masks truly offer protection? Throughout India, I’ve encountered intelligent, skeptical individuals …
Since mask fit-test machines cost $10,000, many people need a simpler, practical way to check that their mask is sealing properly on their face. This simple four-step “poor man’s fit test” will help people check the fit of their mask and find leaks. I was fortunate enough to visit 3M’s …
