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The Biden administration officially ended the national and public health emergency for Covid-19 in May of 2023, and mask mandates have been dropped in every state throughout the country. But with the virus still mutating (the current strain being SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant JN.1) and cases ongoing, it's still acceptable to continue masking (and testing) if you're feeling symptoms or considered high-risk—especially in public indoor spaces or while spending time with people outside of your household. Whether your stock is running low or you're looking to upgrade your go-to mask, we've looked into some good options (some of which we've tested), and here's what we found.
Updated April 2024: We've removed the Opecticid KN95 mask. We also added the latest information on the current Covid-19 subvariant and masking protocols and included a new section on mask expirations.
Table of ContentsDo New Variants Change Mask Requirements?When Should I Wear a Mask?Wait, Which Kind of Mask Should I Get?What Are Workplace-Performance Masks?N95 Respirator MasksKF94 MasksKN95 MasksChildren’s MasksHow Do I Avoid Counterfeit Masks?Can I Reuse Disposable Masks?Do Disposable Masks Expire?Get Free Masks From the Government
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Do New Variants Change Mask Requirements?
Omicron is a highly transmissible variant, so health experts suggest N95 or KN95 masks. According to the Infectious Diseases Society of America, the current Omicron JN.1 subvariant doesn’t appear to cause more severe disease than other Covid variants, but it “does appear to be more transmissible.” CDC Nowcast also estimates it accounts "for more than 95 percent of all Covid-19 illnesses in the US.”
In the past, there have been concerns that cloth or even surgical masks aren't effective at blocking the transmission of the virus. In fact, some health experts have advised against using cloth masks altogether. And, while those masks are better than nothing, N95s are your best bet.
As per the American Medical Association, a study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in February 2022 found that “N95 and KN95 masks were found to be 48 percent more effective than surgical or cloth masks” and “wearing an N95 or KN95 mask reduces the odds of testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 by 83 percent. This is compared with 66 percent for surgical masks and 56 percent for cloth masks.”
A report from spring 2021 showed that if an infected and noninfected person were both wearing cloth masks, it would take around 27 minutes for an infectious dose of Covid-19 to reach the noninfected person. If both were wearing surgical masks, that time would rise to about an hour. If both were wearing non-fitted N95s, it would take 25 hours to receive an infectious dose. This was before the Delta or Omicron variants, but it should offer an idea of the masks’ relative effectiveness levels.
When Should I Wear a Mask?
In March, the CDC announced that “Covid-19 remains an important public health threat, but it is no longer the emergency it once was, and its health impacts increasingly resemble those of other respiratory viral illnesses, including influenza and RSV.” Instead of Covid-specific guidance, the CDC is now pointing people to Respiratory Virus Guidance.
According to that guidance, the CDC recommends those experiencing respiratory virus symptoms “that are not better explained by another cause” should stay home and isolate for at least 24 hours after their fever breaks and their symptoms subside. From there, the agency suggests masking for five additional days after that.
Wait, Which Kind of Mask Should I Get?
Back in January 2022, the CDC's guidance on masks was updated to say that N95 masks offer the “highest level of protection.” However, the agency still says that the best mask is one you'll wear correctly and consistently.
The best kinds of disposable face masks to wear haven't changed a lot:
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It's incredibly important to get a mask that fits your face. A big part of the reason cloth or even surgical masks can be less effective is due to the gaps between the mask and the face. These areas can allow unfiltered air to get through and enter your nose and mouth. N95 masks are generally designed to fit snugly, which is why they're safer. However, the CDC advises those with heart or lung problems to talk to their doctor before using an N95 since wearing these masks can make it harder to breathe.
What Are Workplace Performance Masks?
Most of the CDC and Food and Drug Administration's mask guidance and standards were initially designed with medical settings like doctors' offices and hospitals in mind. However, the pandemic has made it much more common and necessary for people to wear masks in nonmedical contexts. To help with this, the ASTM International standard makes it easier to classify masks for everyday work.
Under this standard, masks can be labeled as either Workplace Performance or Workplace Performance Plus. The NIOSH recommends using these masks in a workplace environment but, crucially, does not recommend them as a replacement for N95 or other respirators. If you or someone you interact with regularly is a high-risk individual, or if you work in a medical setting, you should stick with N95s.
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This standard rates masks based on filtration, breathability, and an optional leakage ratio. The CDC has a list of masks here, and it tells which masks pass enough of these criteria to qualify for either of the Workplace Performance labels (as of writing, there are only three that earned the label), but this is all based on data reported by suppliers and manufacturers. If you can't find N95 masks but don't work in a high-risk setting, these are also decent masks to pick up.
Also, note that ASTM refers to the agency that classifies standards, but this workplace standard is not the only ASTM standard that governs masks. This standard is technically ASTM F3502-21, which only has the two Workplace Performance levels mentioned above. You may also see other masks that use labels like “ASTM Level 3,” which refer to different ASTM standards for medical masks. For our purposes, all of this means that if you're looking for low-risk masks for the office, look for the Workplace Performance labels.
N95 Respirator Face Masks
The CDC has a giant list of approved N95 masks. Unfortunately, the supply of many brands is constantly fluctuating (even in 2024), so you may need to check back regularly to see which are in stock. Many stores also have regional stock based on in-store supply, so be sure to check your local zip code at different sites where applicable.
Kimberly-Clark N95 Pouch Respirator Masks (50 Count) for $42Amazon
If you need a large number of N95s on the cheap, this pack from Kimberly-Clark is one of your best bets. While these are NIOSH-approved N95 respirators, they're not intended for medical use. If that's not an issue for you, then the horizontal-fold pouch and bendable nosepiece should provide a solid seal on your face, while still costing less than a dollar per mask.
DemeTech Folding N95 Respirator Masks (20 Count) for $75DemeTech
This fold-style mask uses two over-the-head straps to keep the mask snug on your face, while still allowing a fair amount of breathing room in front of your mouth and nose. These are among the pricier masks on our list, but members of our team have used these and found them comfortable and sturdy.
3M Aura N95 Respirator Masks (10 Count) for $10AmazonHome Depot ($23)
3M's N95 respirators are individually wrapped and have two horizontal folds that create a decent-sized cup in front of your nose and mouth. The masks come with two straps that go over your head and neck to keep a tight seal. This is one of the smaller packs on our list, but you may have an easier time finding it in stock at some stores.
Honeywell Safety DF300 N95 Disposable Respirator (20 Count) for $21HoneywellAmazon
The DF300 N95 from Honeywell is a more affordable option on this list. With this mask, you'll get multilayer absorption (including a humidity- and moisture-resistant filter), a soft inner lining, and latex-free head straps. The nose clip is also adjustable and hidden underneath the mask. It comes complete with a soft foam nose cushion as well, which should make it more comfortable to wear for longer periods of time.
KF94 Masks
Vida Adult KF94 Mask (10 Count) for $25Vida
Vida's KF94 mask is both protective and stylish. It's FDA-listed, CE-certified (and manufactured in South Korea), and offers a 94 percent filtration efficiency. The four-layer mask comes in adorable colors including Blush, Seafoam, and Glacier Blue. It's also available in a variety of pack sizes, from 10 to 10,000.
BOTN KF94 Masks (10 Count) for $24Amazon
The BOTN KF94 masks only come in large and extra-large for adults, so those with smaller faces should look into the youth size, which also comes in a variety of color options including beige, dark gray, pink, and yellow. The mask has ear loops and a nosepiece that are both adjustable, so it should help ensure a tight fit if you go for the bigger size. I (Brenda) prefer these when wearing makeup, because the nosepiece stays put and doesn’t ruin my foundation as much as other masks do.
LG Airwasher KF94 Disposable Face Mask (10 Count) for $20Amazon
This one dips in and out of stock. LG's Airwasher mask is a standard KF94 with a three-dimensional design, four-ply fabric, an adjustable nose clip, and rounded ear loops. If you want a slightly more elevated option, it also comes in a Black Style design that'll likely pair well with fancier outfits for more formal occasions.
KN95 Face Masks
★Evolvetogether Rio de Janeiro Masks (5 Count) for $15Evolvetogether
Evolvetogether's masks are trendy among celebrities because they're both protective and stylish. The Rio De Janeiro is made of six-ply fabric (complete with activated charcoal to reduce odors), double filtration, and a water-resistant exterior. Each mask also has an adjustable nose bridge and gentle ear loops, making it ideal to wear for long periods of time. Of all the KN95s we've tested, this is our favorite one for smaller faces. While pricey, these masks are not only lightweight and comfortable but super durable as well.
Halidodo Individually Wrapped KN95 Mask (60 Count) for $18Amazon
This mask from Halidodo comes in several color sets—one of the options includes eye-catching orange—and is similarly affordable.
Wwdoll Multicolor KN95 Masks (50 Count) for $25Amazon
We’ve tested this mask and found that, while comfortable and super durable, the size is best for those with smaller faces.
Bona Fide Masks White Powecom KN95 Mask (10 Count) for $11Bona Fide Masks
The white Powecom masks come with a multi-filtration system and an adjustable metal nosepiece. You can also choose between the standard KN95 ear loops or the N95 headband style, depending on what you find more comfortable.
Masks for Kids
Once kids are over the age of 2, you can consider putting a face mask on them. We recommend anything they'll actually wear. We have a suggestion below, and our Best Face Masks for Kids guide has more.
AirPop Kids Reusable Mask (4 Count) for $20AirPop
Kids' masks are a bit more difficult since health agencies don't regulate them in quite the same way, but this pack of KN95s is one of our favorites. It's reusable and can be worn by children 3 to 12 years old. It comes in blue, white, or pink. It has been independently tested by several international product-testing and quality-assurance companies, and it is the mask that WIRED editor Adrienne So's kids used for school.
Dr. Puri KF94 Kids Mask (20 Count) for $28Amazon
Our mask reviewer, Adrienne So, had her kids test these. She said they fit them well, and well-fitting masks for kids are hard to find. They come in three sizes, for different ages, and should provide protection similar to a KN95—more protection than a standard surgical-style mask. There's frequently a coupon on the page you can clip to knock a few dollars off.
If You Can’t Find a Mask, Try Project N95
Project N95 isn't a specific mask but rather a nonprofit devoted to connecting personal protective equipment (PPE) supplies with the people and health care organizations that need them. During the height of the pandemic, it offered the ability to browse the organization's marketplace to find more masks and respirators as well as testing kits and other protective gear.
Now that the national and public health emergency has ended, Project 95 still offers access to previously vetted authentic and highly protective masks. But now each mask links to a third-party website (that isn't controlled or operated by the nonprofit) to purchase them. The organization says these links are up to date as of January 31, 2024.
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How Do I Avoid Counterfeit Masks?
There are several ways to spot counterfeit N95 masks, such as by looking for markings on the mask itself or by avoiding N95 masks marketed to children (since the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health doesn’t approve any type of respirators for kids). These markings include the manufacturer's name, TC (testing and certification)-approval number, model number, lot number, and filter designation. The CDC offers much more thorough guidance on how to avoid N95 counterfeits on its site.
We don't recommend buying just any mask you see on Amazon, since Amazon allows third-party sellers on its platform that may not vet products as well as those sold by Amazon.com. You should know that Walmart, Target, and other retailers may also sell third-party masks—make sure you always look at the seller. The masks on this list are legitimate, as are many masks you'll find in major retail chains, like CVS, or from US manufacturers.
Earlier in the pandemic, the CDC authorized the emergency use of KN95, KF94, and other non-N95 masks in health care settings, and that order was revoked in June 2021. Still, many KN95 or KF94 masks are more than adequate for everyday use for low-risk individuals, and they're far better than no mask at all. When shopping for a mask, keep in mind what your needs are and how you plan to use the masks you buy.
KN95s must be stamped with GB2626-2019 if the masks are made after July 1, 2021 (which means they're in accordance with new quality control standards by the Chinese government). If the mask is stamped with a GB number ending in 2006, it was made based on the previous standard and is still fine to use so long as the expiration date hasn't passed. KF94 masks, on the other hand, won't have the stamp but should include “Made in Korea” on the packaging, along with the product name, manufacturer and distributor name, expiration date, and lot number.
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Can I Reuse Disposable Masks?
If you walk into a coffee shop for two minutes on your way to work with a brand-new N95 on, do you need to throw it out and use a new one when you arrive? Not exactly.
For specific instructions and information on your N95 mask, you should check the manufacturer's instructions. But if you can't find data from your mask manufacturer on how many times you can take a mask on and off, the CDC's guidelines state that N95 masks will become less effective the more times they're taken on and off. Part of the reason for this is that the elastic bands wear out and result in a less tight fit. You should throw away your N95 mask when the straps are stretched out and no longer fit snugly on your face, or when the mask becomes dirty, wet, or damaged. You also shouldn't put your N95 in the oven or microwave to sterilize it.
Removing a mask also requires touching it, which can mean particles transfer from the mask to your hands and then back to your face. It's a very good idea to wash your hands effectively after removing or replacing a mask. Try to avoid touching the mask itself and use elastic bands.
Do Disposable Masks Expire?
Yes. According to WellBefore, “many N95 masks have a shelf life of [of] 2-5 years, but you should check the expiration dates on them to be sure.” That’s because, with time, the materials and elastic bands used in the mask can deteriorate. The expiration date is typically printed on the mask or the filter. However, according to the CDC, the Occupational Safety and Health institute doesn't require the shelf life to be printed on the product packaging. You should contact your manufacturer for more information if it's not printed on the mask or you can't find it. All KN95 and KF94 masks, on the other hand, should have the expiration date printed on the packaging (otherwise, they're counterfeit).
Get Free Masks From the Government
Thanks to a White House initiative, around 400 million N95 masks were distributed to pharmacies and community centers across the country in 2022—with up to three masks available per adult. Many of the distribution locations were the places where you may have gotten your vaccine. It's unlikely these facilities have any left in stock after two years, but it's worth checking your local vaccine centers, community health centers, a Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program medical provider, or any major pharmacy chain, to see if they still have any available. The masks are N95s. Notably, surgical N95 masks are held back for health care workers. We recommend calling ahead to double-check inventory.
