N95, KN95 and 3-Ply Masks: Find Out Which Mask Is Right For You

Wearing masks and other forms of personal protective equipment (PPE) when in public is a great way to help protect you and your loved ones and stop the spread of COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It’s also important to continue to mask up even after you’re fully vaccinated.

However, not all masks and PPE products offer the same levels of protection. With so many items on the market, it can be difficult to weed out low-quality products, and figuring out which PPE setup is right for your individual needs is often a challenge. That’s why we put together this short list detailing some of the most common masks and how to use them.

N95 And KN95 Masks

These masks filter out at least 95 percent or more of airborne particles including large and small particles, and reduce the wearer's exposure to small-particle aerosols and large droplets, according to the CDC. Additionally, when they are properly fitted and worn, minimal leakage occurs around the edges of the N95 and KN95 masks, even when the wearer inhales.

When shopping for N95 masks and KN95 masks (the Chinese equivalent of the N95), it’s important to look for ones that have been evaluated, tested, and approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). The CDC also recommends that you don’t double up on masks when using an N95 or KN95.

3-Ply Disposable Masks

Three-ply disposable face masks, also known as surgical masks, are looser-fitting face coverings that are designed to be discarded after each use. They’ve also been cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These fluid-resistant masks protect the wearer protection against large droplets, splashes or sprays of bodily or other hazardous fluids, according to the CDC, but do not provide the wearer with the same reliable level of protection from inhaling smaller airborne particles and are not all considered respiratory protection. The CDC suggests knotting and tucking the ear loops of a 3-ply mask where they join the edge of the mask, since that can help provide a more secure fit.

Cloth Masks

Cloth masks are pretty ubiquitous these days and can be made from a variety of fabrics. Cloth masks are widely available, and the CDC recommends you look for cloth masks that feature multiple layers of tightly woven, breathable fabric. Many are reusable and should be washed regularly. When shopping for a cloth mask, it’s important to look for models that include a nose wire, since having a snug fit is critical. Make sure you don’t buy cloth masks that have exhalation valves or vents, and stay away from single-layer masks or masks with fabric so thin that it doesn't even block light.

Because cloth masks don’t provide superior protection, wearing a 3-ply disposable mask underneath a cloth mask is a great idea and allows the user to have a more personal or stylish look without compromising protection. Doing this can help add another layer of protection, according to the CDC. The cloth mask should push the edges of the disposable mask against your face, and you should be able to see and breathe easily.

The Bottom Line

N95 & KN95 are the gold standards of protection, though the slight adjustments listed above can help you integrate other masks into your PPE rotation. Keeping yourself and your loved ones protected is of the utmost importance — which is why your PPE should be of the highest quality. It’s important to continue to socially distance and wear masks, even after you’re fully vaccinated. Picking the best PPE setup for your needs is critical, and knowing the difference between different types of protective equipment is key to helping slow the spread of COVID-19.

Learn More About Which Mask Is Right For You And Purchase Quality PPE Today

Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated.html
https://n95medicalsupplies.com/
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/pdfs/UnderstandingDifference3-508.pdf
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/types-of-masks.html