While the large size was too large for many panelists (it might be good if youve determined that most masks are too small for you), the medium size was much smallerand, in fact, too small for me. Whats more, there are sizing issues. P95. Generally speaking, if youre fogging up your glasses, its not a perfect seal, said Hana Akselrod, assistant professor of medicine in the division of infectious diseases at George Washington University School of Medicine. These useful baby and kid items were among the most-purchased Wirecutter picks in 2022. 1. Aside from navigating retailers that have long sold out or are price-gouging, youre also contending with fraudulent sellers, fraudulent products, or both: The CDC reports that about 60% of KN95 masks sold in the US are fake. I can breathe better in it, though, since the nose portion (complete with a nose pad) has a less-steep slope. Its headbands are soft. The intended use of the KN95 protective masks is to protect the wearers against non-toxic solid, particulates, powder, PM2.5 smog, dust, saliva, suitable for Non-oil particles. The CDC tested Powecom masks in 2020 and found that they had an average of 98.8% filtration efficiency. While health-care workers are typically advised to throw out their masks after a single use, thats not always necessary for everyone else. The Dr. Puri Micro-Dust Protection Mask isnt NIOSH-approved, but a June 2020 filtration test run by NIOSH (PDF) on samples sent to the agency reported that it blocked more than 99% of 0.3-micron particles. It's still highly effective, thanks to six layers of protection, including two melt-blown cotton filters, a hot air cotton filter, and a non-woven cellulose inner lining. Level 1 indicates that the mask blocks out 95% of particles at 0.1 to 5 microns in diameter at certain flow rates following another set of challenges. With so many fake COVID face masks being sold online, it's important to pay attention to a few details when you order. Do not use the face mask when oxygen concentration is less than 19.5%, because this product does not supply oxygen. Despite its weird duckbill shape, the Kimberly-Clark N95 Pouch Respirator is the real deal. These masks stood out from the rest of the competition because of the positive response we received from a relatively broad swath of panelists, as well as their high performance in our filtration-efficiency testing. #1 Home Improvement Retailer. The product page includes photos of multiple NIOSH documents, including the test report and proof of approval. This KN95 had been listed under the FDAs now-revoked emergency use authorization Appendix A. BYD Cares nonmedical N95, sold at Office Depot, is NIOSH-approved and is no longer flagged as reserved for healthcare workers and first responders. Compared with the brands KN95 respirator, this mask has shorter fasteners, which make for a more snug fit, and a somewhat stouter profile, which allows for more room above the nose and mouth. All NIOSH-approved respirators have a testing and certification approval number that must be printed on the items. Proper fit is critical. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is addressing questions related to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 through CDC-INFO and on their webpage. N95 masks fasten snugly to your face with two bands that go around the back of your head. Assuming the mask fits well and its filtration has been rigorously tested, these masks are some of the most protective face coverings you can buy. NIOSH-approved respirators, like N95 masks, will have an approval label on or within the packaging of the respirator, and an abbreviated approval is also on the respirator. A foam strip over the nose-bridge wire provides some cushioning. Bona Fide Masks as the Exclusive Distributor in U.S.A. Ball Chain Mfg. The CDC reports that about 60% of KN95 masks sold in the US are fake. 5. The WellBefore WB-N-200 N95 Respirator Mask we recommend is now available in black. This is especially true given the presence of additional layers of protection (such as vaccines, social distancing, and good ventilation). only genuine numbers of authentic Powecom masks can be verified. Powecom ---(Only export to)--- Exclusive Distributor Look for the KN95 standard printed on the mask In 2020, the FDA. Fortunately, these disposable masks, made with nonwoven materials, are now much easier to find compared with early on in the pandemic. 1. What we like: This formerly FDA-emergency-authorized KN95 mask offers some varietyyou can choose from ear loops or headbands, as well as black or white. ) will continue well serving the dealers and dear Customers in U.S. (1) within the territory in USA , Open face mask. You can do so by double masking (the correct way) or by wearing an approved N95 or KN95 mask, which get their names because they filter out at least 95% of airborne particles. 7. Thanks to its soft, flexible construction, the Kimberly-Clark N95 Pouch Respirator should fit most people. Scrape off the coating of the anti-fake label (sticker), visit www.powecom.com and click the navigation "ANTI-FAKE CHECK" Ball Chain Mfg. It measures about a quarter-inch greater vertically, from tip to tip, compared with the 6-inch Powecom KN95so it hits the corner of my eyes. The more expensive option is from N95MaskCo and is NIOSH approved. A respirator labeled as a KN95 respirator is expected to conform to China's GB2626 standard. Bona Fide Masks has a variety of KN95 face masks for sale online . Another option is to wear disposable masks more than once. Not everyone feels the same way about an ultra-snug fit.). Advertisement - Continue Reading Below 7 Kids KN95 Disposable Face Masks Now 20% Off Searching for a reliable respirator or surgical-style mask for a decent price, particularly earlier in the pandemic, has been the most difficult shopping experience Ive ever had. It sells for a rather pricey $4 a mask and is currently out of stock. Because they dont fit close to the face, theyre not designed to protect the wearer from inhaling small, potentially infectious particles. Because of KF94 masks more structured boat shape (a horizontal rectangle that tents up to secure itself over the nose bridge and chin), theyre somewhat harder to adjust, and our panelists had different opinions on which fit best. These masks are designed to prevent fluid from penetrating the mask (from, say, splattering as a result of a medical procedure) and potentially harming the wearer. Please read the cautions before use. Powecom KN95 Protective masks, their website Store the mask in clean and cool place. For reusable options, consider the picks in our guide to the best cloth masks for adults. My husband and I tried the regular-size foldable masks, and they stood up slightly less high off our faces, especially near the nose, compared with other masks we tried. The strikingly soft ear loops on the DemeTech DemeMask Surgical Mask are gentle on the ears. Hana Akselrod, MD, assistant professor of medicine in the division of infectious diseases, George Washington University School of Medicine, phone interview, February 23, 2021, Kathy Cummins, head of marketing and overseer of research and data analytics, Hinge Global, phone interview, February 24, 2021, Loretta Fernandez, PhD, associate professor of civil and environmental engineering at Northeastern University, phone interview, February 23, 2021, Christian LOrange, PhD, associate director of the Center for Energy Development and Health, and assistant professor of research in mechanical engineering, Colorado State University, phone interview, February 3, 2021, Linsey Marr, PhD, professor of civil and environmental engineering, Virginia Tech, email interview, February 9, 2021, Nikki McCullough, PhD, global technical services and regulatory director, 3M Personal Safety Division, phone interview, January 19, 2021, Bryan Ormond, PhD, assistant professor of textile engineering, Textile Protection and Comfort Center, Wilson College of Textiles, North Carolina State University, phone interview, June 12, 2020, Kristen Picard, product marketing director, Honeywell, phone interview, February 11, 2021, Chris Plotz, director of education and technical affairs, INDA (Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry), phone interview, March 2, 2021, Nura Sadeghpour, health communications specialist, CDC/NIOSH, email interview, February 24, 2021, Ron Shaffer, PhD, former research branch chief, National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory, NIOSH, phone interview, June 29, 2020, Shirley Simson, press officer, FDA, email interview, February 24, 2021. We also like that you can choose to buy as few as 10 masks in a pack (though you can order as many as 10,000). The omicron variant that is currently circulating is highly contagious, and although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent severe illness, hospitalizations and death, you should still mask up. 3. Very Scrape off the coating of the anti-fake label, visit www.powecom.com and click the navigation "ANTI-FAKE CHECK" . N95. Water will destroy filtering ability and protection. Yes, theres the counterfeit issue. In addition to being FDA-approved, the masks have the stamp of approval from over 7,000 Amazon shoppers who left a five-star rating. However, an N95s elastics tend to be tighter than those on cloth masks, which helps with the seal but may be uncomfortable. The Powecom KN95 Protective Mask The intended use: for protection against particulate, PM2.5 smog, powder, dust, Non-oil particles, Non-toxic solid 10 PCS/ Poly Bag 120 BAGS/Carton ( regular ) 1200 PCS/Carton ( regular ) PFE over 95% ( at least) Gross Weight: 6.5KG (white earloop)to 7.2 KG /carton Volume Weight:15.9 KG/carton PFE over 95% ( at least) We bought: Powecom KN95 masks, 10-pack . Fernandez, who has been assessing masks (PDF) since the start of the pandemic, noted an easy fix that a dentist shared with her: By cutting the ear loops on a KN95 mask and reattaching them to form headbands, the dentist was able to achieve a secure enough fit to nudge the filtration back up past 90%. Even a bit of extra fat in the chin or a few millimeters in the width of the nose can have an impact on a respirators fit, the authors noted. As the CDC notes, a mask can be reused after it has been stored in a paper bag for a few days. Virginia Techs Linsey Marr suggested buying directly from a reputable supplier whenever possible, not just grabbing whatever you find from a third-party seller (the fewer middlemen, the smaller the chance of mischief). Stay tuned for future updates. I also sent the masks to a panel of Wirecutter staffers with different face shapes, and collected their feedback. Winner Medical confirmed to us that it designs masks according to a clients specifications while still ensuring the same protective effects. Since the pandemic started, our lives have changed, adjusted and readjusted. P100. In contrast, headbands provide a snugger fit, though one tester found that the headband version of this mask was too tight for comfort (and strongly preferred the ear-loops version). However, one tester described it as actually painful to wear, though thats also the reason why she trusts it for doctors appointments at a hospital. Below are five N95 and KN95 masks that had at one point been approved by either NIOSH or the FDA. The Kimberly-Clark mask closes absolutely flat without the need for you to pinch the nose wire closed, as you have to with many other foldable masks, and at around $1 a mask, its also the least expensive NIOSH-approved N95 weve seen so far. POWECOM KN95 Respirator Face Mask | Breathable Face Mask (10 Pack) |White| Headband Style $15.00 ($1.50 / Count) Available on Amazon Breatheze KN95 face masks made in the USA Breatheze. These masks have a strong vinegary smell out of the package, and they cost considerably more than our picks. Co., Inc.) Powecom Non-Medical Disposable KN95 Respirator Face Masks, Adult Size, Pack Of 10. . The supply chain "factory Guangzhou www.bonafidemasks.com ) as the Leave the contaminated area immediately if breathing gets difficult or dizziness or distress occurs. Similar in size vertically to the Harley Commodity mask (about 6 inches), it hits my lower eyelids. You can do so by double masking (the correct way) or by wearing an approved N95 or KN95 mask, which get their names because they filter out at least 95% of airborne particles. (You know, the strings of metallic beads that keep keys together, switch lamps on and off, and hold military dog tags.) 1. But masks worn by most people in relatively low-risk situations could probably be worn for considerably longer. We would make this mask a pick except that, at more than $3 apiece, its much pricier than our picks from Powecom and Kimberly-Clark (each around $1 per mask). Weve tried 39 models and confirmed the filtration claims of our favorites with government agencies or our own lab testing performed in collaboration with Colorado State University. The Makrite 910 is a duckbill-shaped N95 like the Kimberly-Clark mask we recommend, but it is not nearly as comfortable. $25.00. Not only do these masks come in pleasant colors like Seafoam, Denim, Blush, Coral, and Lavender, but they're . But also, KN95 and surgical-style masks dont always fit very well. For genuine Powecom KN95 masks, the security numbers can be found at our databank of verification system. He advises throwing away a mask when its soiled or worn out, when it no longer fits well, or when its difficult to breathe through. Their KN95 masks, which are FDA registered though not approved, are available individually wrapped for $2.95 Because of their limited use, extreme requirements, and price, it is advisable to. Best face masks for COVID-19 in 2022. Check the air sealing of mask. Its around-the-head bands are easy to knot for a good seal, assuming the mask fits your face. Early in the pandemic, with N95 respirators in short supply, some of these masksif they met certain criteriawere FDA-cleared for workers in health-care settings under an emergency use authorization (EUA). The Powecom . We elected not to send the Blue mask out to Colorado State for filtration-efficiency testing because, besides lacking broad fit appeal, it costs more than the Dr. Puri and Kyungin Flax KN94 masks we preferand it is considerably more expensive than our picks. Not NIOSH Rated. Thanks to its ball-chain business, the company already had reliable sources in China, who helped it get in touch with a reliable mask maker, Guangzhou Powecom. A piece of foam cushions its sturdy, pliable nose-bridge wire. We confirmed that the mask sold via this Amazon link (labeled sold by Dr. Puri Official) is legitimate, and its at a slightly lower price than weve seen elsewhere. The Kimberly-Clark Professional N95 Pouch Respirator is NIOSH-approved and comes with 50 per package. Carton Size: 68 x 36.5 x37 cm L x W x H, -----------------------------------------, Bona Fide Masks as EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR Armbrust Surgical Masks are FDA 510(k)-cleared and come in a fun range of color options typically not seen in masks, such as denim, orange, and green. The CDC guidance, intended for health-care personnel in situations much riskier than what I experience in my day-to-day routine, notes that masks shouldnt be used more than five times. Its also our favorite because its the only one of its type that actually fit our testers well, and it felt surprisingly comfortable. Weve tried 14 surgical-style masks over the past few months, and for the most part, the differences have been barely discernible. Anyone with sensitive skin will appreciate how soft and lightweight this KN95 mask is. Soft headbands that easily knot and stretch over various positions on the head form a good seal and are plenty comfortable for long-term wear. (The colorful variations have not undergone the Korean Ministry of Food and Safety approval process, though the materials are similar.) This level of filtration on medical-style masks (assuming theyre genuine) is better than what you can get from almost all masks made from only cloth, said Linsey Marr, a professor of engineering at Virginia Tech who is an expert in the science of aerosols. 10 pack Powecom KN95 Masks at Bona Fide Masks$9.50; And according to Bona Fides website, all respirators manufactured after May 20, 2020 are affixed with an anti-fake sticker that can be used to verify authenticity.. All legitimate N95 masks are approved by NIOSH as respirators; surgical N95 models have undergone additional NIOSH testing to meet specific FDA requirements. Still, from an economic perspective, its pointless to spend the extra money on a KN95 only to have it work as effectively a much cheaper mask. Volume Weight:15.9 KG/carton Powecom Children's Sized KN95-SM Respirator Mask Buy Now Powecom was another mask maker that used to have emergency use authorization for its KN95 masks. These masks. In fact, Colorado State Universitys Christian LOrangewho has tested thousands of masks, including our pickstold us that the most egregious fails have come from surgical-style masks as opposed to respirators. The Waste-Not Mask. anti-fake sticker for Each bag of CE certified FFP2 NR masks, Copyright 2021 Guangzhou Powecom Labor Insurance Supplies Co., Ltd - ?ICP?8068938?1. For this guide, I tracked down legitimate respirators and masks, as well as reliable retailers that sell them. Theres no time limit for how long a filter will work, explained Ron Shaffer, former research chief at the National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory at NIOSH. Do not use the face mask when the concentration of dust, or particles are immediately dangerous to health or life. Its also somewhat thicker overall. As with our guide to cloth face masks, well continue to add to this list of trusted respirator and surgical-style masks as new and better options become available. The N95 respirator is the most common of the seven types of particulate filtering facepiece respirators. The masks in this section have either undergone the stringent NIOSH testing required to earn an official N95 designation or submitted the necessary testing results and paperwork for FDA clearance, whether via a now-revoked emergency use authorization or the 510(k) process. Ive spent the past several months scrolling through scores of masks online, poring over documents from the CDCs National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the FDA, and puzzling over little certification slips half-written in Chinese (a childhoods worth of Saturday morning Chinese school has not helped). KN95 masks (Chinas N95 equivalent) should block out 95% of 0.3-micron particles; KF94 and FFP2, 94%. For further details, see our additional guidance on safely reusing masks. Yes, outside of the health-care setting, most people can safely reuse some disposable face masks. A caveat: The same mask sold by the same company can differ depending on the retailer. When weve come across masks that fit and feel great but arent NIOSH-approved or FDA-cleared, weve sent samples to Colorado State Universitys Center for Energy Development and Health for filtration efficiency and breathability testing. But they are a tad longer horizontally and come only in an ear-loop option. Our panelists agreed, however, that it felt lightweight. The company redacted the manufacturers name in the paperwork, again for proprietary reasons. This mask is also more than twice the price of our other respirator picks, the lighter but odd-looking Kimberly-Clark N95 and the easy-on, easy-off but less-adjustable Powecom KN95. What we like: Most disposable pleated masks feel and function about the same, but the DemeTech DemeMask Surgical Mask is FDA 510(k)-cleared and meets ASTM Level 3 standards, as its capable of blocking 98% of particles as small as 0.1 micron (assuming a good seal). The intended use of the KN95 protective masks is to protect the user against non-toxic solid, particulates, powder, PM2.5 smog, dust, saliva, suitable for Non-oil particles. We also spotted boxes on Amazon, but those are from third-party sellers we havent vetted.). On the product page, youll also find an online copy of the certification from the FDA and the owner/operator number that can be searched in the FDAs database of Establishment Registration and Device Listing. Get the Powecom KN95 Respirator Face Mask in White (Conforms to GB2626-2019 Standard) - 10-Pack from Bona Fide Masks for $12. The FDA. That authorization has since been revoked (PDF) due to a replenished supply of N95s, but the FDA suggests that these previously authorized respirators (such as our pick, the Powecom) be redistributed for use in nonmedical settings. The dimensions were neither too large nor too small for most of our testers, yet the mask also accommodated one tester who has a beard (though, of course, facial hair inherently lessens a masks seal). Our face mask provides comfort and protection against pollution and particles. Prices and availability are subject to change. Product valid for three years, we use anti-counterfeit technology & anti-fake label for authentic POWECOM brand KN95 masks, starting since the middle of May,2020 Masks (together with They're designed for kids ages 4 and up and feature. Note, too, that this mask is truly for one-time use: With too much wear and tear or rough usage, the bands can rip, and the nose-bridge wire on top can become unstuck. Powecom Non-Medical Disposable KN95 Respirator Face Masks $12 for 10 We have been recommending Powecom KN95 masks since as early in the pandemic as summer 2021. The sturdily constructed flat fold WellBefore WB-N-200 N95 Respirator Mask also felt large on some of our panelists, but a bit less so, and more important, it didnt feel suffocating despite creating a good seal. You can confirm that its other overseas manufacturing partners are indeed FDA 510(k)cleared by typing the company name (found on the Certificate of Conformity, a slip of paper enclosed in the box) into the FDAs device database. Co., Inc. The KF stands for "Korean . Gross Weight: 6.5KG(white earloop)to 7.2 KG /carton The Powecom KN95 personal respirator, which ships from stock directly from our Mount Vernon, NY warehouse, is a respirator face mask made of a multi-layer filtration system of non-woven breathable fibers and is . The Honeywell DF300 N95 Particulate Disposable Respirator is similar to the BYD KN95: It too offers a more snug fit for small faces than the Harley Commodity and United States Mask models. The security numbers are unique for each label. N100. Here we recommend legitimate N95, KN95, and surgical masks you can buy from trusted retailers now. Unlike N95 masks, these other respirator masks typically have ear loops instead of headbands. One way to detect a fake is to hold it top side up under a dripping faucet: If the droplets soak in instead of completely beading up, its not a real surgical mask, which by definition should have some level of water resistance. This N95 mask comes with head and neck loops instead of ear loops, plus it has a foldable design that makes it easy to store. With its soft edges, the DemeMask is easy to knot at the ear loops and tuck at the sides (video) for a secure fit. This mask doesnt feel the easiest to breathe throughbut that suggests some degree of filtration efficiency. According to the CDC, 60% of respirator masks sold in the U.S. are counterfeit and do not meet NIOSH requirements, so youll want to make sure that your N95 and KN95 masks have the correct approvals. KN95, KF94, and FFP2 are internationally sourced respirators and therefore dont undergo the NIOSH approval process. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing so you can make quick and confident buying decisions. As with many K94s we tried, the Blue KF94-3D Mask fit some of our panel testers well but left gaps on others. Others have appeared to be missing layers altogether, he said. Powecom KN95 Disposable Masks, $19.99; amazon.com. Click the button "Verify". You can play around with the bands for a better seal, but overall we found this mask to be quite restrictive and suffocating. Powecom KN95 masks since November 18th, 2021, (2) previous direct importers of factory Guangzhou Powecom (Pre-vaccination, my husband wore this N95 to the New York City public school where he has been teaching in person; he arrived home to find reassuring imprints on his face. As expected, the extra hardware makes for a more expensive mask (10 for $40) compared with most weve considered. KN95 and N95 masks also fit more snugly on your face than cloth or surgical masks, preventing gaps that further expose your mouth and nose to airborne droplets. All are made with similar layers of high-filtration, nonwoven materials. What we like: Many NIOSH-approved N95s and headband-style KN95s weve tried were either too large or too tight. Go To Homepage Before You Go Highly Rated KN95, N95 And Surgical Masks The 4CAir AireTrust Nano Mask is one of the thinnest KN95-type masks weve tried, thanks to its patented nanotechnology. For advice on the best disposable and cloth face masks for children, see our buying guide to kids face masks. Back then, they were on the. A bracket keeps the fabric off the face, and a ring of soft, cotton-tee-like material surrounds the nose and mouth while somehow creating a comfortable seal without a nose-wire bridge. What is a medical-style mask, and do you need one? Still, separating the good options from the bad can be tough. Get a 20-pack for $54.99. WWDOLL KN95 Face Masks $ 19.74 WellBefore KN95 Face Mask WellBefore offers KN95 masks in multiple colors and allows a choice between standard ear loops and head straps. Its also NIOSH-approved. For everyone besides health-care workers, whose risk of exposure is generally far less, there are more sustainable choices, including reusable cloth masks with high filtration efficiencies such as the Enro Tech or Happy Masks Pro, both picks in our guide to the best cloth face masks. Please click just only one time. Respirators more often than not come in one size, so we like that this one comes in three: small (for kids), medium, and large. Authentic KN95 respirators provide equivalent protection of an N95 respirator. On March 24, 2020, the FDA issued an umbrella EUA for certain imported disposable filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) that are not approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety. Keep the face mask clean before use. Our face mask provides comfort and protection against pollution and particles. Consisting of high-efficiency filter layers, all of these mask types are designed to protect the wearer in high-risk situations. Powecom Non-Medical Disposable KN95 Respirator Face Masks. Heres what to look out for so you dont waste money on fakes. What we dont like: This is a lot of mask, several testers commented, noting the WellBefores plastic and foam features, wide headbands, and girth. 2. Ensure the face mask fit to face, by adjusting the nose piece, keeping mask edge close to face. Slightly rounded, as opposed to flat, theyre somewhat gentler on the ears, too. The nose-bridge wire is cushioned by a foam strip, however, and this model is NIOSH-approved. Surgical masks are medical devices regulated by the FDA. Nevertheless, in order to gain FDA clearance, either through 510(k) or the agencys emergency use authorization, surgical masks undergo testing to meet voluntary consensus standards set by ASTM International (formerly the American Society for Testing and Materials)and those standards include achieving a level of filtration efficiency. This KN95 mask comes in a box of 20 and claims to effectively resist fine particles. Safety comes first during a pandemic, which is why experts are urging people to opt for disposable masks with high filtration efficiency when possible. Ball Chain Mfg. We like that the NIOSH-approved DemeTech respirators come in two designs (cup and foldable) and each in regular or small size. Try the orange or the navy for a welcome change from black, white, and. The United States Mask Particulate Respirator N95 is manufactured domestically and NIOSH-approved. (Those with incorporated filters, however, such as the Enro Tech and Happy Masks Pro, filtered similarly to N95s, though machine washing and drying diminished their efficacy.). 2. there is an Anti-fake Label (sticker) pasted to each carton of the powecom KN95 protective masks. This product filters at least 95% of airborne particles but is not resistant to oil-based particles. We use anti-counterfeit technology & anti-fake label for genuine POWECOM brand KN95 masks, starting since early May,2020 Its estimated to be three times more transmissible than the delta variant, she said, referring to the variant that was previously the most more prevalent in the U.S. If we can upgrade our masks, it may help with that.. EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTORforthe Faces differ, but these masks straps can be knotted and stretched to help them stay put on a range of sizes while providing ample breathing room. In our experience, a long, sturdy nose-bridge wire helped minimize glasses fogging, too. And many testers noted that it had a strong scent out of the package that didnt fade quickly. 1. there is an Anti-fake Label (sticker) pasted to each polybag of the powecom KN95 protective masks Do not wash the face mask with water. manufacturer Guangzhou Powecom in the U.S. since 2020. Some testers said the masks smelled funny (dusty, described one panelist); wed take these masks out of the packaging and let them air out before wearing. Respirator masks that earn NIOSH approval will also have specific labeling printed on the facepiece. This product cannot be applied to prevent against harmful gases. Frequently on sale, these masks are a good choice if you cant get ahold of the DemeTech or Medline masks, or if you just want to add a burst of color to your mask wardrobe. Our initial focus was offering performance and comfort over form, said Rob Hughes, vice president of PPE at Kimberly-Clark Professional.