Buzz
As COVID cases remain elevated and more transmissible variants emerge, upgrading your mask is essential. While layering masks is an option, N95s and similar high-filtration masks remain the gold standard for protection.
Initially, cloth masks were advised due to shortages of surgical masks and respirators. While they’re better than no mask, cloth masks fall short compared to higher-quality alternatives. Here’s a breakdown of mask effectiveness, ranked from best to worst:
Respirators such as N95, KN95, and KF94
A surgical mask (with earloops) paired with a cloth mask for a snugger fit
A properly fitted surgical mask by itself
A well-fitted cloth mask alone
A bandana or similar loose covering (strongly discouraged)
As previously detailed, respirators and surgical masks offer several benefits over cloth masks. They provide a tighter fit, feature finer material pores, and utilize an electrostatic charge to block particles that might penetrate the mesh.
While any mask is preferable to none, retaining old cloth masks as a backup—ideally layered over a surgical mask—is wise when higher-quality options are unavailable. Cloth and surgical masks are also practical for children, as NIOSH-approved respirators aren’t available in kids’ sizes, and the best mask for a child is one they’ll consistently wear. With this in mind, here are some high-quality mask options to consider.
N95 masks
If you manage to find N95s, that’s excellent, but be cautious of counterfeits. Genuine N95 masks display a NIOSH logo and an approval number, which can be verified on the NIOSH website. Additionally, review the CDC’s guidelines for identifying fakes. Authentic N95s never include ear loops, decorative elements, or claims of being child-approved.
KN95 masks
KN95 masks, approved in China, closely resemble N95s, but finding authentic ones has been challenging. A 2020 ECRI institute study revealed that 70% of masks labeled as KN95 failed to meet the required standards.
The FDA compiled a list of masks authorized for healthcare workers during the pandemic, including certain KN95 brands. While these authorizations have expired for healthcare use, they remain suitable for general purposes.
KF94 masks
KF94 masks, a South Korean standard, are comparable to N95s and designed for public use. They are often more accessible and affordable than N95s.
FFP2 masks
The FFP2 mask is Europe's counterpart to the N95. In Germany, these masks are mandatory in certain settings, such as public transportation.
Reusable elastomeric masks
Elastomeric masks are more commonly associated with DIY projects than healthcare. They feature a flexible facepiece and interchangeable disc-shaped filters.
The CDC approves these masks for healthcare workers, confirming their effectiveness against the coronavirus. While the filters must remain dry, proper care allows for repeated use without disposal.
