Mask Fit & Style Updates
In addition to choosing the right mask, wearing it correctly makes a big difference in efficacy. A well-fitting mask is one that fits snugly against the sides of your face AND covers your nose and mouth and can be secured under your chin.
Here are some reminders:
- Wear a mask correctly and consistently for the best protection.
- Be sure to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before putting on a mask.
- Do NOT touch the mask when wearing it. If you have to touch/adjust your mask often, it doesn’t fit you properly, and you may need to find a different mask or make adjustments.
- How to Improve Fit
- Follow the user instructions for the mask or respirator. These instructions may show how to make sure the product fits properly.
- Wear two masks (disposable surgical mask underneath AND cloth mask on top) can provide great protection. Do not double mask with a N95 or similar style.
- A cloth mask can be combined with a fitter or brace
- Knot and tuck ear loops of a 3-ply mask where they join the edge of the mask. Then fold and tuck the unneeded material under the edges. (For instructions, see this video.)
- Cord locks for ear loops - to make ear loops adjustable
- Nose bridge adhesive pads - helps mask stay in place and prevents glasses from fogging
- Aluminum nose pieces - stick to outside of mask to help mask stay in place
- N95 vs KN95 vs KF94 vs Surgical Masks: What to know
- NIOSH-approved N95 respirators are the gold standard mask in the US. Surgical N95s are still prioritized for healthcare workers.
- KN95s were emergency approved in the US in 2020 and are regulated by the Chinese government. According to the CDC, about 60% KN95 respirators in the United States are counterfeit (fake) and do not meet NIOSH requirements.
- KF94 masks similar to KN95s in look and fit, filtering out about 94% of airborne particles. They’re regulated by the Korean government, not by NIOSH. There are often more sizes for this type of mask.
- ASTM Level 3 Surgical Masks are also good alternatives
- You may also want to check out N99, N100, P95, P99, P100, R95, R99, and R100 masks that offer protection like a N95.
- The CDC also has a page dedicated to Factors to Consider When Planning to Purchase Respirators from Another Country.
Where to Buy
Here are some places you may find masks, but please be mindful as many companies are delays due to the volume of orders.
- Armbrust: Austin company with N95 and Level 3 surgical masks in childrens and adult sizes.
- Well Before: Also has kids masks
- Bona Fide Masks: Level 3 surgical masks in adult and children sizes
- Amazon
- Home Depot
- CVS
KN Flax: Via Amazon and offers adult and child size KF94s
Here are some spots you may find masks for children:
- Evolve Together: KN95
- Check out Aaron Collin’s (known as “The Mask Nerd”) for his database on kids masks at this link
Springs Campus
18 months to Pre-K