Choosing a Face Mask for Coronavirus

All of our masks are listed below.

kn95 vs n95 masks
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About Our Masks

Based on the 3M comparison on the left, it is reasonable to consider China KN95, AS/NZ P2, Korea 1st Class, and Japan DS2 FFRs as “similar” to US NIOSH N95 and European FFP2 respirators, for filtering non-oil-based particles such as those resulting from wildfires, PM 2.5 air pollution, volcanic eruptions, or bioaerosols (e.g. viruses). However, prior to selecting a respirator, users should consult their local respiratory protection regulations and requirements or check with their local public health authorities for selection guidance.
source: (3m.com)

According to WHO mask guidance, if you have COVID-19, COVID-19 symptoms, are caring for someone who may be infected, or are among the vulnerable population (aged ≥ 60 years, people with cardiovascular disease or diabetes mellitus, chronic lung disease, cancer, cerebrovascular disease, or immunosuppression) then a medical mask, such as an N95 or KN95, is the safest bet to protect yourself from the virus or contain the spread if you have it.

Similarly, if you’re in a living space with or are caring for someone who has or may potentially have COVID-19, these medical masks are the only proper equipment. 

Placing a surgical mask over the outside of the N95 or KN95 while wearing it can also help preserve it. Social distancing and frequent hand-washing should also be practiced at all times.  

source: World Health Organization (WHO)
updated June 5, 2020

All of our Masks Below

Which face mask or covering is best to wear?

Choosing a Face Mask for Coronavirus
NameDescriptionPricehf:att:pa_mask-type
3M Aura 9205 NIOSH N95 Mask to Protect

N95 Mask3M Aura 9205 NIOSH N95 Mask

The 3M™ Aura™ Series Particulate Respirator 9205+, N95 mask is a three-panel, flat-fold disposable respirator designed to help provide comfortable, reliable worker protection against non-oil-based particles.

  • NIOSH N95 mask approved for at least 95 percent filtration efficiency against certain non-oil-based particles
  • Designed to direct exhaled air away from the nose panel, helping reduce eyewear fogging
  • Curved low profile design conforms well to nose and eye contours, allowing more room for eyewear
  • Individual packaging and flat fold design provide convenient storage and portability
  • Innovative chin tab designed for ease of positioning, donning & adjustment
  • Soft inner materials
  • Adjustable nose clip helps provide a custom secure seal for the N95 mask
  • N95 mask is compatible with a variety of eyewear

1 Mask

See the Personal Protective Equipment category for more like this.

Frequently Asked Questions for N95 Mask

Why do face masks matter with this coronavirus?

With the new coronavirus, known as SARS-CoV-2 , the largest amount of viral shedding, or transmission, happens early in the course of the disease. Therefore, people may be contagious before they even start to show symptoms.

Moreover, scientific models suggest that up to 80 percent of transmission stems from asymptomatic carriers of the virus.

Emerging research suggests that N95 mask use may help limit the transmission of the virus by people who don’t realize that they may have it.

It’s also possible that you could acquire SARS-CoV-2 if you touch your mouth, nose, or eyes after touching a surface or object that has the virus on it. However, this is not thought to be the main way that the virus spreads.

Source: (healthline.com)

When Should You Wear a Mask?

The CDC recommends that everyone over age 2 wear cloth face masks in public places where it’s hard to stay 6 feet away from other people.

Wear a face mask if you are sick and around other people or animals, even at home. Caregivers should use them when cleaning and disinfecting a sick person’s bedroom or bathroom.

If you need to call 911, put on a mask before medical help arrives

Remember that a N95 mask should be used in addition to other COVID-19 safety steps. It doesn’t replace them. You still need to limit your contact with other people, wash your hands often with soap for at least 20 seconds, and keep common surfaces clean.

Source: (webmd.com)

Unsure About Actually Wearing a Face Mask? Here’s How (and Why) to Do It

Tips for wearing one properly + how to wash it To mask or not to mask? That has been the question on all of our minds for the last few weeks. Before, the consensus was for only those who are considered high risk for the coronavirus (COVID-19) to wear them.

But in light of recent findings, the CDC now recommends that we wear masks or cloth face coverings in public settings that might make it hard to practice social distancing etiquette and that’s why we also recommend that you and your family members consider making it a part of your daily routine,” says Aaron Hamilton, MD “Wearing a cloth face mask is recommended as an extra layer of protection,” Dr. Hamilton says. “That means that you should still be following any shelter-in-place orders in your community. But when you’re venturing out to the grocery store, pharmacy or hospital, it’s wise to wear one.”

Source: (health.clevelandclinic.org)

When is it important to wear a mask?

The CDC recommends wearing cloth face masks in public settings where compliance with physical distancing measures may be difficult to achieve and maintain. This is key in areas where community-based transmission is high.

This includes, but is not limited to, settings such as:

  • grocery stores
  • pharmacies
  • hospitals and other healthcare settings
  • job sites, especially if physical distancing measures aren’t feasible

Source: (healthline.com)

How to wear a face mask effectively:

It’s all about getting the right fit and covering your bases, Dr. Pate says. “A mask should cover the bridge of the nose, mouth, and both lateral sides of the cheeks to prevent air from entering,” she says. “There are many people who improperly wear one or get the incorrect size with the nose exposed, which defeats the purpose of wearing a mask in the first place.” The best materials for DIY masks based on filtration and breathability are cotton-made fabrics, specifically denim, 80- to 120-thread count cotton bed sheets or a 100% cotton T-shirt, or a thick (.4 to .5 mm) canvas material, according to new research conducted by Smart Air . The company suggests holding up your fabric to light; the more opaque it is, the better. Several masks come with an opening for a removable filter like a coffee filter or a paper towel . A recent study out of Northwestern University also found that when a nylon stocking was worn over a mask, it worked even better by creating a tighter seal in some cases even outperforming medical-grade surgical masks.

Source: (prevention.com)

Do face masks work?

CDC experts say recent studies show that a significant portion of individuals who have the coronavirus don’t have any symptoms (in other words they’re “asymptomatic”). And furthermore, those who eventually develop symptoms (or those who are “pre-symptomatic”) can spread the virus to others before they show any symptoms.

“The coronavirus can spread among people who are less than 6 feet apart, whether that’s by talking to one another, coughing or sneezing,” Dr. Hamilton explains. “This holds true even if none of those people notice symptoms commonly reported with COVID-19, like fever, shortness of breath or coughing.” Dr. Hamilton says a cloth mask will not prevent you from breathing in respiratory droplets that carry a virus, like COVID-19. But it will help to protect others from you if you happen to be infected, with or without symptoms. Furthermore, cloth masks help to reinforce social distancing and good cough etiquette, which ultimately will help to slow how far the virus spreads.

Cloth masks can also prevent you from touching your face, and can be a visual reminder to practice social distancing, Dr. Hamilton adds.

Source: (health.clevelandclinic.org)

Does everyone need to wear a face mask?

The following people should NOT wear a face mask, according to the CDC:

  • Children under age 2.
  • Anyone who has trouble breathing.
  • Anyone who is unconscious, incapacitated or can’t remove a face mask without help.

Source: (health.clevelandclinic.org)

 

$2.75
n95
FOLDED N95 MASKS PARTICULATE RESPIRATOR TO PROTECT - Pack of 5

DUE TO THE NATURE OF THIS PRODUCT THIS ITEM CANNOT BE RETURNED

FOLDED N95 MASKS PARTICULATE RESPIRATOR TO PROTECT - Pack of 51AK N95 Masks.
N95 5 Layers Face Masks Particulate Respirator White – Pack of 5
They stop 95% of particles >0.3 microns in size. The N95 is the USA Code, KN95 is China code, KF94 is Korea code and FFP2 is the EU code, this includes the UK.

See the Personal Protective Equipment category for more like this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do face masks matter with this coronavirus?

With the new coronavirus, known as SARS-CoV-2 , the largest amount of viral shedding, or transmission, happens early in the course of the disease. Therefore, people may be contagious before they even start to show symptoms.

Moreover, scientific models suggest that up to 80 percent of transmission stems from asymptomatic carriers of the virus.

Emerging research suggests that N95 mask use may help limit the transmission of the virus by people who don’t realize that they may have it.

It’s also possible that you could acquire SARS-CoV-2 if you touch your mouth, nose, or eyes after touching a surface or object that has the virus on it. However, this is not thought to be the main way that the virus spreads.

Source: (healthline.com)

When Should You Wear a Mask?

The CDC recommends that everyone — sick or healthy — wear a cloth face mask in places where it can be hard to stay 6 feet away from others, like grocery stores. That’s because studies show that people can spread coronavirus even if they don’t have symptoms (called asymptomatic) or before they have symptoms (called presymptomatic). In fact, you might be the most contagious just before symptoms begin.

Source: (webmd.com)

When is it important to wear a mask?

The CDC recommends wearing cloth face masks in public settings where compliance with physical distancing measures may be difficult to achieve and maintain. This is key in areas where community-based transmission is high.

This includes, but is not limited to, settings such as:

  • grocery stores
  • pharmacies
  • hospitals and other healthcare settings

(source: healthline.com)

How to spot a counterfeit N95 Mask

Counterfeit respirators are products that are falsely marketed and sold as being NIOSH-approved and may not be capable of providing appropriate respiratory protection to workers.
When NIOSH becomes aware of counterfeit respirators or those misrepresenting NIOSH approval on the market, we will post them here to alert users, purchasers, and manufacturers.

How to identify a NIOSH-approved respirator:

NIOSH-approved respirators have an approval label on or within the packaging of the respirator (i.e. on the box itself and/or within the users’ instructions). Additionally, an abbreviated approval is on the FFR itself.

You can verify the approval number on the NIOSH Certified Equipment List (CEL) or the NIOSH Trusted-Source page to determine if the respirator has been approved by NIOSH. NIOSH-approved FFRs will always have one the following designations: N95, N99, N100, R95, R99, R100, P95, P99, P100.

(source: cdc.gov)

Is a N95 Mask Reusable?

A key consideration for safe extended use is that the respirator must maintain its fit and function. Workers in other industries routinely use N95 mask for several hours uninterrupted. Experience in these settings indicates that respirators can function within their design specifications for 8 hours of continuous or intermittent use.

Some research studies (14, 15) have recruited healthcare workers as test subjects and many of those subjects have successfully worn an N95 mask at work for several hours before they needed to remove them. Thus, the maximum length of continuous use in non-dusty healthcare workplaces is typically dictated by hygienic concerns (e.g., the respirator was discarded because it became contaminated) or practical considerations (e.g., need to use the restroom, meal breaks, etc.), rather than a pre-determined number of hours.

If extended use of N95 respirators is permitted, respiratory protection program administrators should ensure adherence to administrative and engineering controls to limit potential N95 mask surface contamination (e.g., use of barriers to prevent droplet spray contamination) and consider additional training and reminders (e.g., posters) for staff to reinforce the need to minimize unnecessary contact with the respirator surface, strict adherence to hand hygiene practices, and proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) donning and doffing technique.

(source: cdc.gov)

$26.25
n95
KN95 Respirator Medical Mask - Headband Style - Pack of 10 (On the CDC approved list)

KN95 Respirator Mask - Headband Style - Pack of 10 (On the CDC approved list)KN95 Respirator Medical Mask – Headband Style – Pack of 10 (On the CDC approved list)

DUE TO THE NATURE OF THIS PRODUCT THIS ITEM CANNOT BE RETURNED

*** This item has limited stock and is being restricted in orderable quantity due to the impact of the Coronavirus on the supply chain. Item quantity restriction information may change daily without notice. Multiple orders collectively exceeding restricted quantities may be cancelled without notice.

The headband style Powecom KN95 respirator medical mask, is made of a multi-layer filtration system of non-woven breathable fibers and is utilized globally.  This specific model is the headband style KN95 from Guangzhou Powecom Labor Insurance Supplies Co., LTD., and is FDA authorized for use in healthcare settings by HCP during the COVID-19 public health emergency: FDA authorized respirators should be used in accordance with CDC recommendations.

(On the CDC approved list)

Packaging:
10 Per/Pkg.

See the Personal Protective Equipment category for more like this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do face medical masks work?

CDC experts say recent studies show that a significant portion of individuals who have the coronavirus don’t have any symptoms (in other words they’re “asymptomatic”). And furthermore, those who eventually develop symptoms (or those who are “pre-symptomatic”) can spread the virus to others before they show any symptoms.

“The coronavirus can spread among people who are less than 6 feet apart, whether that’s by talking to one another, coughing or sneezing,” Dr. Hamilton explains. “This holds true even if none of those people notice symptoms commonly reported with COVID-19, like fever, shortness of breath or coughing.” Dr. Hamilton says a cloth mask will not prevent you from breathing in respiratory droplets that carry a virus, like COVID-19. But it will help to protect others from you if you happen to be infected, with or without symptoms. Furthermore, cloth masks help to reinforce social distancing and good cough etiquette, which ultimately will help to slow how far the virus spreads.

Cloth masks can also prevent you from touching your face, and can be a visual reminder to practice social distancing, Dr. Hamilton adds.

Source: (health.clevelandclinic.org)

When is it important to wear a medical mask?

The CDC recommends wearing cloth face masks or a medical mask in public settings where compliance with physical distancing measures may be difficult to achieve and maintain. This is key in areas where community-based transmission is high.

This includes, but is not limited to, settings such as:

  • grocery stores
  • pharmacies
  • hospitals and other healthcare settings
  • job sites, especially if physical distancing measures aren’t feasible

Source: (healthline.com)

If we’re practicing social distancing, do we still need to wear medical masks?

A mnemonic that Chin-Hong likes is the “Three W’s to ward off COVID-19:” wearing a mask, washing your hands, and watching your distance.

“But of the three, the most important thing is wearing a mask,” he said. Compared to wearing a mask, cleaning your iPhone or wiping down your groceries are “just distractors.” There’s little evidence that fomites (contaminated surfaces) are a major source of transmission, whereas there is a lot of evidence of transmission through inhaled droplets, said Chin-Hong.

“You should always wear masks and socially distance,” said Rutherford. “I would be hesitant to try to parse it apart. But, yes, I think mask wearing is more important.”

Source: (ucsf.edu)

$16.24
kn95
Disposable Earloop Face Best Buy on 3 ply Mask - Box of 50

3 ply face masksProcedure & Isolation 3 ply Mask (50 per box) with Ear Loop:
Procedure Masks offer a flexible nose piece that helps form a closure for better protection against exposure
Pleated ear loop procedure masks with glass-free filter

Packaging:
50/box

Find more masks in our Personal Protective Equipment Category

Frequently Asked Questions

When Should You Wear a 3 Ply Mask?

The CDC recommends that everyone — sick or healthy — wear a cloth or 3 ply mask in places where it can be hard to stay 6 feet away from others, like grocery stores. That’s because studies show that people can spread coronavirus even if they don’t have symptoms (called asymptomatic) or before they have symptoms (called presymptomatic). In fact, you might be the most contagious just before symptoms begin.

Source: (webmd.com)

When is it important to wear a mask?

The CDC recommends wearing cloth or a 3 ply face mask in public settings where compliance with physical distancing measures may be difficult to achieve and maintain. This is key in areas where community-based transmission is high.

This includes, but is not limited to, settings such as:

  • grocery stores
  • pharmacies
  • hospitals and other healthcare settings

(source: healthline.com)

Why did the CDC change its guidance on wearing masks?

The original CDC guidance partly was based on what was thought to be low disease prevalence earlier in the pandemic, said Chin-Hong. “So, of course, you’re preaching that the juice isn’t really worth the squeeze to have the whole population wear masks in the beginning – but that was really a reflection of not having enough testing, anyway,” he said. “We were getting a false sense of security.” Rutherford was more blunt. The legitimate concern that the limited supply of surgical masks and N95 respirators should be saved for health care workers should not have prevented more nuanced messaging about the benefits of masking. “We should have told people to wear cloth masks right off the bat,” he said.

Another factor “is that culturally, the U.S. wasn’t really prepared to wear masks,” unlike some countries in Asia where the practice of wearing a 3 ply mask is more common, said Chin-Hong. Even now, some Americans are choosing to ignore CDC guidance and local mandates on masks, a hesitation that Chin-Hong says is “foolhardy.”

What may have finally convinced the CDC to change its guidance in favor of 3 ply masks and other masks were rising disease prevalence and a clearer understanding that both pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic transmission are possible – even common. Studies have found that viral load peaks in the days before symptoms begin and that speaking is enough to expel virus-carrying droplets.

“I think the biggest thing with COVID now that shapes all of this guidance on masks is that we can’t tell who’s infected,” said Chin-Hong. “You can’t look in a crowd and say, oh, that person should wear mask. There’s a lot of asymptomatic infection, so everybody has to wear a mask.”

If we’re practicing social distancing, do we still need to wear masks?

A mnemonic that Chin-Hong likes is the “Three W’s to ward off COVID-19:” wearing a 3 ply mask or other mask, washing your hands, and watching your distance.

“But of the three, the most important thing is wearing a mask,” he said. Compared to wearing a mask, cleaning your iPhone or wiping down your groceries are “just distractors.” There’s little evidence that fomites (contaminated surfaces) are a major source of transmission, whereas there is a lot of evidence of transmission through inhaled droplets, said Chin-Hong.

“You should always wear a 3 ply mask or other masks and socially distance,” said Rutherford. “I would be hesitant to try to parse it apart. But, yes, I think mask wearing is more important.”

Source: (ucsf.edu)

$9.94
pleated
3m N95 mask 8511 - Popular 3M Particulate Respirator - Box of 10

3m N95 mask 8511

3m N95 mask 8511The 3M™ Particulate Respirator 8511 features a proprietary 3M™ Cool Flow™ Valve and helps provide comfortable, reliable respiratory protection. It is ideally suited for hot/dusty work settings that require long periods of wear.

The 3M™ Particulate Respirator 8511, N95 is a disposable particulate respirator designed to help provide reliable respiratory protection against certain non-oil based particles. This respirator can help reduce inhalation exposure to certain airborne biological particles, such as mold, Bacillus Anthracis, and Mycobacterium Tuberculosis, but it cannot eliminate the risk of contracting infection, illness, or disease. Soft inner material provides added comfort while the respirator’s cup design makes it spacious and durable. Braided headbands and an adjustable M nose clip help provide a custom and secure seal. The respirator incorporates 3M’s proprietary technology with advanced electrostatically charged microfiber filter media designed for ease of breathing. This respirator is compatible with a variety of protective eyewear and hearing protection. Fitted with a 3M™ Cool Flow™ Exhalation Valve, this respirator is ideally suited for work situations involving heat, humidity, or long periods of wear. The proprietary valve is designed to release hot, humid exhaled breath quickly, helping to prevent an unpleasant build up of heat inside the facepiece – a significant cause of discomfort to respirator wearers. The valve’s efficiency in keeping breathing cool and comfortable has been demonstrated through testing*: the atmosphere inside a respirator with a Cool Flow valve is on average 7.5°F (-13.6°C) cooler than a similar product without the valve. This makes 3M™ Cool Flow™ Exhalation Valve respirators ideal for long periods of wear, especially where conditions are hot, humid or physically demanding. *Testing conducted in a 3M laboratory. Testing protocol, data generation, and conclusions were reviewed and approved by an expert from The University of Minnesota.

  • NIOSH-approved for filtration against certain oil and non-oil based particles remove oil.
  • 3M™ Cool Flow™ Exhalation Valve helps reduce heat build-up inside the respirator
  • M-Nose clip adjusts easily for fewer pressure points and greater comfort
  • Braided headbands’ two-strap design with dual point attachment helps provide a secure seal
  • 3M™ Cool Flow™ Exhalation Valve helps reduce heat build-up inside the respirator

See our Personal Protective Category for more like this.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some differences between dust masks and 3M N95  mask 8511 respirators?

Although a dust mask and a 3M N95 mask 85111 respirator can often look similar, they actually have different purposes and protection levels. Typically, a dust mask has a single strap and has the same cup shape as a disposable 3M N95 mask 8511 respirator. However, dust masks can also come in the form of a loose fitting rectangular piece of material with an ear loop on each side, or straps to tie behind the head. Additionally, dust masks typically do not have any information printed on them.

The most significant difference between dust masks and 3M N95 mask 8511 respirators is that dust masks aren’t NIOSH-approved disposable filtering facepieces. A common misconception is that dust masks protect the wearer from hazardous exposures, but in reality, they do not protect the wearer at all. Dust masks are designed to be used for one-way protection only – capturing large particles or droplets from the wearer and preventing them from being spread to their environment.

Dust masks should be worn when there is no risk of being exposed to hazardous dusts, gases or vapors. They are ideal for non-hazardous environments and are not considered to be a personal protective device that can provide respiratory protection to the wearer. They are intended to be used in non-regulated situations, such as when mowing grass.

What are some characteristics of 3M N95 mask 8511 NIOSH-approved respirators?

All 3M N95 mask 8511 respirators designed to help protect the wearer from hazardous environments have been tested and certified by NIOSH. This includes air-purifying respirators (disposable, reusable and powered air) plus supplied air respiratory devices (airline or SCBA).

Types of tests conducted by NIOSH include key performance criteria, such as filter efficiency, breathing resistance and if a disposable respirator has an exhalation valve, it’s tested for leakage.

Other characteristics of NIOSH-approved tight fitting particulate respirators, such as a disposable respirator, are as follows:

  1. Designed to fit tightly – they have a seal around the wearer’s face which helps prevent air from leaking into the respirator, thus protecting the worker from particular hazards.
  2. Approval levels are: ​
  • N – no oil present;
  • R – resistant to oil mist; or
  • P – oil mist proof
  1. Have an efficiency of 95%, 99% or 99.9%
  2. Require fit testing
  • Before initial use;
  • Every two years (according to CSA Standard Z94.4: Selection, use and care of respirators);
  • If the wearer fails their user seal check when they don a respirator; or
  • If there is a change to the wearer, such as weight loss or gain, changes in oral structure or piercings that interfere with the facial seal
  1. Requires that a respiratory protection program be developed and implemented.

It includes:

  • Hazard identification and assessment
  • Roles and responsibilities
  • Selection of the appropriate respirator
  • Training
  • Health surveillance of respirator users
  • Respirator fit testing
  • Cleaning, inspection, maintenance, and storage of respirators
  • Program evaluation
  • Recordkeeping

Source: (3mcanada.ca)

 

$40.00
n95
Disposable Effective Face Masks for Kids Blue - 50 per box

Children's face mask pink box 50Disposable Face Masks for Kids

  • Blue
  • 50/box
  • Ages 4-12

Material: Three layers of non-woven fabric
– Non-woven fabric is not a tight weave. Rather, it’s a giant stack of small twigs that create an obstacle course for the incoming particles. This allows air to pass through quite easily, but still makes it difficult for particles to pass through.

Function: Fluid resistant, high bacterial filtering efficiency, block most inhalable particulates

Limited supply – While supply lasts!

More children’s Disposable Face Masks
See the Personal Protective Equipment category for more like this.

For the 2021-2022 school year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommends all students ages 2 and older wear face masks indoors, regardless of vaccination status.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to get kids to wear face masks for kids?

Parenting expert and psychologist Laura Markham said parental attitudes and actions are paramount in getting children to wear face masks for kids. “If you always wear one when you are out, they’ll want to wear a mask,” she said. While working on this guide, I discovered that my 3-year-old especially likes wearing light blue masks because they remind him of the surgical masks my husband wears at work: “I look like Daddy,” he says, beaming.

Explain to your child that wearing face masks for kids is about protecting other people, like older relatives, who could get very sick from people who don’t wear a mask around them. Markham recommended telling kids that “this is a way we show that we’re caring for other people.” And to make it fun, you could say, “We’re superheroes, just like superheroes wear masks, we’re protecting other people. Let’s look for other people who are superheroes too.” It’s important to start small and work up to longer periods, Markham said. She recommended starting in your home, perhaps with a game like “guess my emotion” a twist on charades in which everyone in the family puts on a mask, and then you each take turns acting out an emotion while others guess what it could be. We tried this with my 3- and 6-year-olds, and we had fun using our whole bodies to show feelings like “frustrated,” “excited,” and “bored.” We also tried Bill Nye ‘s makeshift way to “show” that face masks for kids are working by taking turns trying to blow out a candle while wearing face masks for kids.

A good time to practice wearing face masks for kids is while sitting still is when a child is doing a quiet activity like watching videos or listening to a story. These small sessions will give you an opportunity to troubleshoot the face mask for kids and find ways to make it comfier.

Source: (nytimes.com)

How to use face masks for kids?

Children are reportedly at lower risk for the illness, but not immune and recent studies show that young children “carry just as much of the coronavirus in their noses as older children and adults.” Many people who have COVID-19, including kids, don’t show symptoms, so wearing face masks for kids can reduce the possibility that someone who’s asymptomatic might pass on the virus.

Encouraging your kids to wear a face mask for kids outside will encourage other preventative measures, like washing their hands and social distancing, said Johnson. Before school starts, practice with your child putting on the face mask for kids and taking it off with clean hands.

“It’s important to find face masks for kids that fits your child’s face so they’re not constantly adjusting it and touching their face in the process,” she said. “Modeling mask wearing is also important; children are more likely to wear their own face masks for kids if they see the adults around them doing so.” Practicing mask etiquette is equally important if your children are participating in remote school, as they’ll need to wear face masks for kids for trips outside the home, Johnson said.

Otherwise, you should follow the general guidance on face masks for kids: The CDC has outlined five criteria to keep in mind.

Face masks for kids should fit snugly and comfortably. They must be secured with ties or ear loops. They should comprise multiple fabric layers. They should be able to breathe without restriction while wearing face masks for kids. You should be able to wash the face masks for kids without causing damage or losing the face mask’s shape. The same guidelines for adult masks adhere to kids: Face masks for kids should have two layers of breathable fabric and fit snugly to their face. Face masks for kids should also be easy to remove and your child should be able to breathe unhindered, said Davies, who added a child-specific precaution.

“There’s a need for supervision when wearing face masks for kids, particularly for younger children, since looping anything around the head and neck is potentially a strangulation risk.”

Source: (nbcnews.com)

How to Plan for Mask Wearing during In Person Classes?

If your school is requiring or encouraging the use of masks, think about the following actions. Consider asking what steps your school will take to minimize the potential for students to be singled out or teased for wearing or not wearing a mask. Appropriate and consistent use of masks may be challenging for some children. Wearing masks should be a priority when it is difficult for students to stay 6 feet apart from each other (e.g., during carpool drop off or pick up, when entering the building or standing in line at school, or while on the bus).

Masks should not be worn by:

  • Children younger than 2 years old
  • Anyone who has trouble breathing
  • Anyone who is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance

Actions to take and points to consider

  • Have multiple masks, so you can wash them daily and have back-ups ready. Choose masks that
    • Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
    • Completely cover the nose and mouth
    • Are secured with ties or ear loops
    • Include multiple layers of fabric
    • Allow for breathing without restriction
    • Can be washed and machine dried without damage or change to shape
  • Label your child’s masks clearly in a permanent marker so that they are not confused with those of other children.
  • Practice with your child putting on and taking off masks without touching the cloth.
  • Explain the importance of wearing a mask and how it protects other people from getting sick.
  • Consider talking to your child about other people who may not be able to wear masks for medical reasons (e.g., asthma).
  • As a family, model wearing masks, especially when you are in situations where physical distancing is difficult to maintain or impossible.
  • If you have a young child, help build their comfort wearing a mask and become comfortable seeing others in masks.
    • Praise your child for wearing a mask correctly.
    • Put a mask on stuffed animals.
    • Draw a mask on a favorite book character.
    • Show images of other children wearing masks.
    • Allow your child to choose their mask that meets any dress requirements your school may have.
    • Suggestions from the American Academy of Pediatrics
  • Consider providing your child with a container (e.g., labeled resealable bag) to bring to school to store their masks when not wearing it (e.g., when eating)

Source: (cdc.gov)

 

$10.49
childrens-mask pleated
KN95 Masks - Big Pack of 10 ( KN95 vs N95?)

KN95 Masks Particulate Respirator White - Pack of 10 (diff kn95 vs n95?)What is the difference KN95 vs N95?

Ratings require masks to be tested for filtration efficiency at capturing salt particles (NaCl). Both are tested at a flow rate of 85 L/minute. However, there are some differences between N95 vs KN95, highlighted here.

DUE TO THE NATURE OF THIS PRODUCT THIS ITEM CANNOT BE RETURNED

KN95 Masks.
KN95 5 Layers Face Masks Particulate Respirator White – Pack of 10
They stop 95% of particles >0.3 microns in size.

Packaging:
10 Masks/Pkg.

 

kn95 vs n95 masks
What is the difference between KN95 vs N95?

source: (3m.com)

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$14.29
kn95
Surgical Medical Face Mask Barrier -Pleated Effective - #1 One Size Fits Most 60/box

Surgical Medical Face Mask – 60 per box

Surgical Medical Face Mask Barrier Standard Pleated Tie Closure One Size Fits Most GreenFeatures

  • Malleable nose wire
  • Pleated, 3-layer design
  • Extra-long tie bands

Packaging:

60/BX

See more in our Personal Protective Equipment Category

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Surgical Medical Face Mask?

A surgical medical face mask is a loose-fitting, disposable device that creates a physical barrier between the mouth and nose of the wearer and potential contaminants in the immediate environment. Surgical medical face masks are regulated under 21 CFR 878.4040. Surgical masks are not to be shared and may be labeled as surgical, isolation, dental, or medical procedure masks. They may come with or without a face shield. These are often referred to as face masks, although not all face masks are regulated as surgical medical face masks.

Surgical medical face masks are made in different thicknesses and with different ability to protect you from contact with liquids. These properties may also affect how easily you can breathe through the face mask and how well the surgical mask protects you.

If worn properly, a surgical mask is meant to help block large-particle droplets, splashes, sprays, or splatter that may contain germs (viruses and bacteria), keeping it from reaching your mouth and nose. Surgical masks may also help reduce exposure of your saliva and respiratory secretions to others.

While a surgical mask may be effective in blocking splashes and large-particle droplets, a face mask, by design, does not filter or block very small particles in the air that may be transmitted by coughs, sneezes, or certain medical procedures. Surgical masks also do not provide complete protection from germs and other contaminants because of the loose fit between the surface of the mask and your face.

Surgical masks are not intended to be used more than once. If your mask is damaged or soiled, or if breathing through the mask becomes difficult, you should remove the face mask, discard it safely, and replace it with a new one. To safely discard your mask, place it in a plastic bag and put it in the trash. Wash your hands after handling the used mask.

Source: (fda.gov)

Why do face masks matter with this coronavirus?

With the new coronavirus, known as SARS-CoV-2 , the largest amount of viral shedding, or transmission, happens early in the course of the disease. Therefore, people may be contagious before they even start to show symptoms.

Moreover, scientific models suggest that up to 80 percent of transmission stems from asymptomatic carriers of the virus.

Emerging research suggests that widespread mask use may help limit the transmission of the virus by people who don’t realize that they may have it.

It’s also possible that you could acquire SARS-CoV-2 if you touch your mouth, nose, or eyes after touching a surface or object that has the virus on it. However, this is not thought to be the main way that the virus spreads

Source: (healthline.com)

When Should You Wear a Mask?

The CDC recommends that everyone over age 2 wear cloth face masks in public places where it’s hard to stay 6 feet away from other people.

Wear a face mask if you are sick and around other people or animals, even at home. Caregivers should use them when cleaning and disinfecting a sick person’s bedroom or bathroom.

If you need to call 911, put on a mask before medical help arrives.

Remember that a mask should be used in addition to other COVID-19 safety steps. It doesn’t replace them. You still need to limit your contact with other people, wash your hands often with soap for at least 20 seconds, and keep common surfaces clean.

Source: (webmd.com)

When is it important to wear a mask?

The CDC recommends wearing cloth face masks in public settings where compliance with physical distancing measures may be difficult to achieve and maintain. This is key in areas where community-based transmission is high.

This includes, but is not limited to, settings such as:

    • grocery stores
  • pharmacies
  • hospitals and other healthcare settings
  • job sites, especially if physical distancing measures aren’t feasible

Source: (healthline.com)

$24.94
pleated
Face Shield Equus #1 Best Glasses Compatible

glasses compatible face shieldEquus adjustable, light plastic frame with replaceable shield that comes with extender that allows room to wear glasses and goggles and one shield.

Includes 1 Face shield.

Additional replaceable face shields sold separately.
For more masks visit our Personal Protection Equipment category

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a face shield?

Face shields are personal protective equipment devices that are used by many workers (e.g., medical, dental, veterinary) for protection of the facial area and associated mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth) from splashes, sprays, and spatter of body fluids. These shields are generally not used alone, but in conjunction with other protective equipment and are therefore classified as adjunctive personal protective equipment. Although there are millions of potential users of face shields, guidelines for their use vary between governmental agencies and professional societies and little research is available regarding their efficacy.

Source: (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Can I use a face shield instead of a face mask?

According to experts, face shields are not a viable alternative to masks on their own, but they can provide extra protection to other parts of the face when used with a traditional mask.

“Eye protection is good, which you don’t get with a face mask,” said Dr. Daniel Morgan, M.D., a professor of epidemiology and public health and infectious disease at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. “A mask should be worn to cover the mouth and nose.” According to Morgan, there is little data to support the use of face shields without a mask, so they should not be used as a replacement for more traditional face coverings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also does not recommend face shields as an alternative to face masks , though does note that “some people may choose to use a this type of shield when sustained close contact with other people is expected.” The CDC says face shields should wrap around the wearer’s face and extend past the chin.

While a face shield can help protect the wearer from large splashes or droplets to the eyes, they usually do not completely cover the sides of the face or under the chin, which leaves room for airborne particles to find their way underneath the shield.

“[Their design] makes them more comfortable, but allows respiratory droplets and small aerosols, possibly containing virus, to escape into the surroundings,” said Dr. Scott Segal, chair of anesthesiology at Wake Forest School of Medicine. “A covering with some ability to trap particles or filter them out is what’s really needed.”

Source: (today.com)

How to select a face shield?

Face shields are meant to be used as barrier protection for the facial area and associated mucous membranes from airborne body fluids (blood, saliva, bronchial secretions, vomit, urine, etc.) expelled as a result of various physiological processes (vomiting, coughing, sneezing, etc.). The selection of the most appropriate face shield model(s) will depend on the circumstances of exposure, other PPE used concurrently, and personal vison needs. Shields with single Velcro or elastic straps tend to be easiest to don and doff; doffing can be accomplished with a single hand. In order to be efficacious, these shields must fit snugly to afford a good seal to the forehead area and also to prevent slippage of the device. Visors manufactured from acetate, propionate, and polycarbonate offer improved visual clarity and optical quality with the potential for less eye strain. Face shields should be selected that have visors treated for anti-glare, anti-static, and anti-fogging properties. For improved protection from infectious agents, these shields should be, at a minimum, full face length with outer edges of the shield reaching at least to the point of the ear, include chin and forehead protectors, and cover the forehead. Cost-effective considerations include disposable shields vs. reusable models and those that offer replaceable parts.

Face shields are not meant to function as primary respiratory protection and should not be used alone because aerosols can flow behind the visor,  so a protective facemask (medical/surgical mask, N95 FFR, etc.) should be worn concurrently.

Source: (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Should you get a face shield?

“A face shield is good against the really big stuff [particles] that you can kind of see,” he said. “But as the stuff gets smaller and smaller, it’s just easy for that to go around the shield and be inhaled.” Shields can also be bulkier than masks, said McKnight, making it more uncomfortable for the wearer (and consequently more likely for them to take it off). Keep in mind that shields also don’t meet the criteria for a face covering in all states, so you’ll need to check your local requirements before wearing one in public without a mask.

Source: nbcnews.com

$7.44
face-shield
MAKRITE N95 Particulate Respirator - Package of 20

Package of 20 masks

These masks are intended to be used for protection against solids, such as those from minerals, coal, iron ore, flour and certain other substances. They are extremely durable with a soft and comfortable inner surface, also have an adjustable nose piece and secured head straps to provide proper fit. These masks have a 510(K) number for the medical market and can be used TB situations as recommended by OSHA.

 

$37.44
n95
McKesson Children's Medical Face Masks (Ear -Loop) - Level 1

Mckesson Medical Face Maks (kids)McKesson child’s face masks are disposable and are intended for children ages 4-12 years old with adult supervision.

Features:

  • This soft, lightweight, and breathable kids-fitted mask are comfortable.
  • Recommended for children who are immuno-compromised, have flu symptoms, or are visiting hospital patients.
  • Non Sterile, disposable mask, intended for convenient single-use.
  • Features comfortable and stretchy knitted ear loops for a custom fit on small faces.
  • Formable nosepiece that forms a snug seal and secures positioning for increased protection.

Packaging:
75 Masks/Box

See the Personal Protective Category for more like this.

$16.79
Honeywell NIOSH N95 Particulate Respirator Mask - 20 Per Box

Honeywell NIOSH N95 Particulate Respirator Mask – 20 Per Box

The DC300N95 Honeywell North® (formerly Sperian) N95 Respirator is a NIOSH-Approved N95 Respirator Mask for Airborne Particulate. Provides 95% filter efficiency against solid and liquid particulates in the air. This includes work-related irritants like dust, sawdust, and airborne allergens. Lightweight, easy-to-wear and disposable, N95 masks feature a latex-free filter media for lower breathing resistance. The breathing mask’s filter media is designed to resist humidity for comfortable performance in most environments. The two-strap construction allows for quick donning, while the adjustable nose bridge means one size will fit most faces. This face mask is an N-class respirator that is NIOSH approved for use with solid and liquid particulates, excluding oils.

Features:

  • NIOSH-Approved N95 Protection for home & work application
  • 95% filter efficiency against solid and liquid particulates, excluding oils
  • Lightweight, easy-to-wear and disposable
  • Molded cup design
  • Found on the CDC Website’s Approved N95 Respirator List

Packaging:
20 Per Box

See the Personal Protective Category for more like this.

$58.73
Coverall Half Face Shields Anti-Fog to Protect - 25 Per Box

Coverall Half Face Shields Anti-Fog

face shieldThe half face shield’s wrap-around design provides the wearer with great peripheral vision while acting as a protective shield against non-hazardous liquid splash and light particles in a Lab or Controlled Environment.  The Coverall® half face shield is not ANSI Z87 rated for eye protection.  You can wear the lightweight shield comfortably for long periods and it fits easily over prescription glasses or protective eyewear.  A double-sided anti-fog coating reduces the possibility of fogging in high humidity environments.  For safe working conditions, the face shield is low distorting and 100% optically clear while a soft polyurethane foam headband securely positions the device on the wearer.  Individually packaged.

  •  Latex free elastic foam headband fits snugly against the forehead comfortably
  • Fits easily over prescription glasses or protective eyewear

25 Per Box

Find more products like this in our Personal Protective Equipment category

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Wear A Half Face Shield?

Face shields basically involve curved plastic that protects your eyes or face from infection. They are typically used by healthcare workers for certain procedures where “splash or splatter is likely,” as is the case when a dentist performs a teeth cleaning, explains David McKnight , MD, a clinical professor in primary care and population health at Texas A&M University. Shields are also often used for safety in hardware and home improvement projects. (nbcnews.com)

Face shields do not prevent spread of COVID-19 , but can help reduce transmission. Face shields can block large particulates from getting into your eyes and mouth, said McKnight. (nbcnews.com)

“The goal is that if you sneeze or cough, a face shield minimizes the distance that the aerosol travels,” he said, adding that, in doing so, you’ll be “hopefully lowering the risk of transmitting it to someone in the vicinity.” Wearing a face shield may make you less likely to touch your face with unwashed and potentially contaminated hands, too. Typically, face shields are single use, but can sometimes be cleaned with plain soap and warm water and recycled for future use, said Joe Suyama , MD, chief of Emergency Medicine at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital. (nbcnews.com)

Face shields are valuable in protecting the wearer from inward inhalation of aerosol droplets that may be carrying the virus. While they offer some level of source control, since particles emitted through coughing and sneezing would be somewhat contained, they are less effective than masks when it comes to preventing the wearer from transmitting viral droplets outwards. (institute.global)

With this mind, the main purpose of face shields is to protect the wearer. Their effectiveness in this regard is enhanced because they are more likely than masks to be worn properly, and to be kept on for long periods of time. They are particularly useful, therefore, for those who are likely to have a lot of contact with the public. This is especially the case for those in jobs where nonverbal communication using facial expressions is important, such as teaching young children. (institute.global)

$43.75
face-shield

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