Now that we’ve been in the pandemic for over a year, we’ve seen it all when it comes to face coverings, but the N95 mask remains the gold standard.
Thankfully, many Americans have gotten both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, but with the new Delta variant of the virus gaining traction, the WHO has now said that the vaccine may not offer enough protection against this strain — so masks are back on the table and need to be back on our faces.
A Duke University study published last August tested the effectiveness of 14 different mask types and found further proof that the N95 is the most effective for stopping transmission of respiratory droplets during regular speech.
For those working on the pandemic’s front lines, the FDA recommends wearing N95 respirator masks. But for non-health care workers, the CDC recommends sticking with cloth face coverings.
When looking for a mask, making sure you have the proper fit is also of the utmost importance, taking into consideration face size as well for children and those with smaller faces. Also, making sure your mask has a moldable nose bridge and adjustable straps is another key factor when shopping around.
All of the options below, from K95 to KN95 masks, fit the above criteria, and are made with care to cover the nose and mouth securely. The only real difference between the two types is where they originally came from and were manufactured.
“The difference between an N95 and a KN95 mask is where the mask is certified,” the Oklahoma Department of Health wrote on its website. KN95s are certified in China while N95s are certified in the US.
Here are some online retailers selling N95, KN95 and 3M masks, that you can buy in bulk to protect you and your family from the new Delta strain, other viruses and even for allergies and the upcoming flu season.
Where to buy N95 masks
WellBefore
WellBefore sells the coveted N95 masks at a great discount, selling this white foldable version for just $1.99 each. They are sold in denominations of 10, with 10 being the least you can buy and going up from there to suit your needs. The masks feature adjustable head straps, keeping ears comfortable for all-day wear.
The RespoKare N95 Surgical Respirator is also a great option for an N95, also sold on the WellBefore site. Sold for $2.99 each, the masks really to take face shape and size into account, offering a small, medium and a large option in the blue-colored face covering.
Amazon
The Harley N95 NIOSH Certified Respirator Mask is sold on Amazon in a pack of 20 for $36.99, perfect for larger families or to last you a while before your next restock for cold and flu season around the corner.
The masks meet all the requirements for safety, such as the nose bridge and face-fitting design, but also take comfort into account with extra foam padding along the nose to reduce any irritation.
Where to buy 3M N95 mask and respirators
Amazon
From 3M, this pack of 50 respirators are sold on Amazon for $37.44. They were designed for wood working, sanding, sweeping, sawing, bagging, or other dusty operations as well as to prevent wildfire smoke inhalation, according to the product page, but have been worn by many during the pandemic as a go-to mask option.
The Home Depot
The Home Depot is another place with 3M branded masks in stock, coming in packs of various sizes. This pack of 15 masks is only $34.97, or just $2.33 per mask. They also sell single packages, 5-packs, 10-packs and 15-packs, all on the Home Depot site.
Where to buy KN95 masks
WellBefore
WellBefore’s KN95 offering starts at $1.49 each and are sold in a minimum quantity of five. They also come individually wrapped for ultimate safety, perfect for taking on the go and keeping sanitary before use.
The 3D Style (KF94) KN95 Mask is another option that provides top-notch protection and is comfortable enough to wear all day with the more 3D nature of the design. It gives you more room to breathe, however it still provides five layers of protection and has a tight fit, sealing off your nose and mouth from any outside droplets that may be carrying disease.
Amazon
The Hotodeal KN95 Face Mask is actually a hot deal. Sold in a pack of 20 masks for just $19, the masks are made with a whopping five layers of protection. They also come in fun colors to match your scrubs or outfit, including pink, light blue, navy and gray. Stock up with one of every color and never have a boring mask day again.
Living | New York Post
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