Our initial focus was offering performance and comfort over form, said Rob Hughes, vice president of PPE at Kimberly-Clark Professional. Its adjustable headbands help prevent gaps, but they arent so snug as to be uncomfortable. Store Finder; Truck & Tool Rental; . Suitable for respiratory protection, filtering droplets/particles &a. . together with For masks sold on Amazon, we confirmed with the manufacturer that we had a legit link to the product it was selling, and if we couldnt reach the manufacturer (and if the mask was sold out everywhere except Amazon), we checked that the mask was both sold and shipped directly by Amazon. 2. there is an Anti-fake Label (sticker) pasted to each carton of the powecom KN95 protective masks. I also sent the masks to a panel of Wirecutter staffers with different face shapes, and collected their feedback. Surgical masks with proof of high-filtration efficiency typically dont cost less than $10 for a box of 50 (before tax and shipping), so we were elated to find this box of Medline ASTM Level 1 masks, which are capable of blocking at least 95% of 0.1-micron particles (when worn with a good seal). See at Bona Fide Masks WWDoll. 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). But a few things have stayed the same namely, the fact that we need to wear face masks when were around others. The ear loops are slightly wider than most weve seen, so they easily fit on larger faces or knot and fold (video) for a more secure fit on smaller faces. Powecom KN95 Respirator Masks , model GB2626-AA, are FDA approved non-NIOSH KN95 face piece respirators that protect against airborne bacteria, germs, viruses, and other particulates that are 0.3 microns or larger in size that have been authorized for use by medical professionals as per the May 7th, 2020 Appendix A update. With pandemic-related recommendations and regulations continually evolving along with the coronavirus itself, masks will likely remain a part of peoples lives for some time. The surgical N95 is a NIOSH-approved N95 respirator that has also been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration as a surgical mask. 6. 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. EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTORforthe The CDC tested Powecom masks in 2020 and found that they had an average of 98.8% filtration efficiency. Avoid high temperature over 40C and humidity over 80% . 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). A caveat: The same mask sold by the same company can differ depending on the retailer. (This doesn't mean Powecom masks are NIOSH- or CDC-approved.) Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing so you can make quick and confident buying decisions. 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. (The colorful variations have not undergone the Korean Ministry of Food and Safety approval process, though the materials are similar.) In all, Ive so far assessed 25 respirators and 14 surgical-style masks. Discard this face mask when it gets quite dirty or breathing resistance increase remarkably. Please click just only one time. Its construction features multiple breathable layers of filtration. Multiple Filters Included. The masks have five inner layers with adjustable ear loops and come from an EUA-authorized Chinese manufacturer. Proper fit is critical. This mask can be found in the FDAs Establishment Registration and Device Listing by the owner/operator number 10068674. This may not be the case for people with higher nose bridges, thoughso, as weve mentioned, well continue evaluating this mask with a diverse panel of testers and update this guide accordingly. As the CDC notes, a mask can be reused after it has been stored in a paper bag for a few days. However, the emergence of new COVID-19 variants has resulted in updated guidelines and mask mandates. The DemeTECH NIOSH N95 respirator face mask has been highly rated as a protective N95 mask that can be worn daily with comfort and ease. Do not use the face mask when oxygen concentration is less than 19.5%, because this product does not supply oxygen. 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. CovCare is your #1 shop to buy FDA/EUA approved POWECOM KN95 face masks online. 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). For a more affordable, similarly shaped mask, consider the Powecom KN95 (sold in a headband option at about $1 per mask). The Makrite 910 is a duckbill-shaped N95 like the Kimberly-Clark mask we recommend, but it is not nearly as comfortable. However, it usually costs more than twice as much as our other respirator picks. Each mask features ear loops, a nose wire and five layers of fabric. We like that the NIOSH-approved DemeTech respirators come in two designs (cup and foldable) and each in regular or small size. Powecom KN95 masks since November 18th, 2021, (2) previous direct importers of factory Guangzhou Powecom Do not use the face mask when the concentration of dust, or particles are immediately dangerous to health or life. 3. 4. will continue well serving the dealers and dear Customers in U.S. Add Floor 1, 3 and 4, Building 1, No.43, Tuanjie Road, Xinya Street, Huadu District, GuangzhouCity,Guangdong Province.P.R.China, Guangzhou Powecom Labor Insurance Supplies Co., Ltd. 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. The Powecom . $12 for 10. We dont know how they made the mask or what materials they used.. We independently review everything we recommend. Its KN95 was FDA-cleared under the agencys emergency use authorization during the N95 shortage. 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. A KN95 mask filters out 95% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. Wearing the mask on a cold winter day, weve also noticed it collecting more condensation at the inner layer than our picks. . 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. Back then, they were on the. Look for the KN95 standard printed on the mask In 2020, the FDA. ) will continue well serving the dealers and dear Customers in U.S. (1) within the territory in USA , Sturdy headbands and ample clearance over the nose and mouth create a snug fit that still allows for easy breathing. Powecom has been around since 2009 and is a recognizable name in China for making masks, even before the pandemic. 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. 10.Do not steam the face mask, and do not put it in Microwave oven. Heres what to look out for so you dont waste money on fakes. The CDC says that the easiest way to determine if the mask youre eyeing is NIOSH-approved is to search for it on the NIOSH Certified Equipment List. 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). What we dont like: Except for their larger ear loops and FDA clearance, the Medline masks are fairly run-of-the-mill. MedicPro NIOSH-Approved N95 Masks. For additional options, have a look at our selection of Kn95 Mask Niosh Approved Powecom or use the search box. 11. 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. R95 . The, WellBefore WB-N-200 N95 Respirator Mask we recommend, the signs that suggest you have a fake N95, KN95, or KF94, WellBefore WB-N-200 N95 Respirator Mask (flat fold), A flexible surgical mask with gentle ear loops, Medline ASTM Level 1 Procedure Face Mask with Ear Loops. 60% of respirator masks sold in the U.S. are counterfeit, specific labeling printed on the facepiece, running list of counterfeit respirator masks, online version of an executive authenticity statement, CDCs list of NIOSH-approved N95 particulate-filtering facepiece respirators, Establishment Registration and Device Listing, FDAs Establishment Registration and Device Listing. What we like: This duckbill-shaped mask is a NIOSH-approved N95 respirator manufactured in the US. (This mask is currently out of stock on Costcos site but may be available in some locations when you purchase from Costco via Instacart. KN95 masks are not. So we checked out each companys e-commerce site and confirmed that each respirator or surgical mask of interest is included in one of the following: The same mask sold by the same company can differ depending on the retailer. 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. 10 pack Powecom KN95 Masks at Bona Fide Masks$9.50; The masks have an. You might also find promotions as a first-time buyer on the DemeTech site. What we dont like: This is a lot of mask, several testers commented, noting the WellBefores plastic and foam features, wide headbands, and girth. We like that the masks fasteners are sturdily attached (more so than most) and that they knot easily for adjustment. Its also somewhat thicker overall. The 4CAir AireTrust Nano Mask is one of the thinnest KN95-type masks weve tried, thanks to its patented nanotechnology. Generally speaking, if youre fogging up your glasses, its not a perfect seal. Hana Akselrod, George Washington University School of Medicine. Unlike N95 masks, these other respirator masks typically have ear loops instead of headbands. In our experience, the BYD Care KN95 Respirator sealed well, thanks to its more easily adjustable headband fasteners, but the nose-bridge wire could slide down the nose and block the airway a bit. This article was edited by Tracy Vence and Kalee Thompson. NIOSH N95 Foldable Masks $59.99 (originally $79.99) Buy Now. 1. is the NO.1 direct importer and the Largest authorized Distributor of *At the time of publishing, the price was $12. PFE over 95% ( at least) Our face mask provides comfort and protection against pollution and particles. When Chinese authorities updated the KN95 standard this summer, we commissioned Colorado State Universitys Center for Energy Development and Health to verify that the Powecom mask sold by Bona Fide Masks maintained its high filtration efficiency. A piece of foam cushions its sturdy, pliable nose-bridge wire. Its also NIOSH-approved. The product page includes photos of multiple NIOSH documents, including the test report and proof of approval. At about $20 for 50 masks (at this writing), the pricing isnt a notable bargain for a non-FDA-cleared box of masks. This product filters at least 95% of airborne particles but is not resistant to oil-based particles. Yes, theres the counterfeit issue. Powecom KN95 Disposable Masks, $19.99; amazon.com. www.bonafidemasks.com 2023 BuzzFeed, Inc. All rights reserved. We didnt include this mask in our filtration testing, nor did we investigate it further, because too many panelists complained of fit issues (it didnt grasp the chin very well). They are white, have a pouch design and two blue headbands to secure the mask. . 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. Once we tracked down several masks that we concluded were actually medical-grade, our job had only just begun. Its around-the-head bands are easy to knot for a good seal, assuming the mask fits your face. Both versions come in black, while the ear-loop masks also come in gray, pink, dark blue, light blue, and red. We also like that it comes in a small size, which might work for some bigger kids, and in a tie version, which may be especially helpful for people who wear hearing aids. What we dont like: As some readers have pointed out, the Powecom designs ear-loop elastics can feel uncomfortably snug. When in doubt, throw it out. 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 They're designed for kids ages 4 and up and feature. #1 Home Improvement Retailer. BUY. With the proper fit, masks approved by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) can filter up to 95% of particles in the air. Do not touch the rear side of the face mask. 2023 Wirecutter, Inc., A New York Times Company, Powecom KN95 Respirator Masks we recommend, are fully restocked and now come in a variety of additional colors. Some have exhibited a mere 20% filtration rate on small particles (about the same as many of the filterless cotton masks we tested for our guide to cloth face masks), though most of them have demonstrated a slightly less shocking 70% to 80% rate. We have six to recommend that are high-performing, breathable, and fit a range of ages. After an assignment forced her to sleep eight hours a day for a month, she realized that she is, in fact, a smarter, nicer person when she isnt sleep-deprived. You can play around with the bands for a better seal, but overall we found this mask to be quite restrictive and suffocating. 5. Because they dont fit close to the face, theyre not designed to protect the wearer from inhaling small, potentially infectious particles. Were continuing to test these masks for fit and comfort, and we will be trying other options as they become available. We also perused business-news articles online about US-based companies that are manufacturing or selling masks, or both. We bought: Powecom KN95 masks, 10-pack . 1. Ball Chain Mfg. These N95 masks are NIOSH-approved and have a secure two-strap design instead of an ear loop design, plus an adjustable nose wire. Thanks to its soft, flexible construction, the Kimberly-Clark N95 Pouch Respirator should fit most people. If you go through N95s on a regular basis (like my husband, who wears one to teach in-person classes every day), the Dobu masks can get pricey (at this writing, theyre nearly $40 for a pack of 25 on Amazon). Whats more, there are sizing issues. in USA, We, the manufacturer of authentic Powecom KN95 masks, are Scrape the coating of the anti-fake label, visit www.powecom.com and click the navigation "ANTI-FAKE CHECK" guide to verify. Still, were doing our best by distributing masks to a diverse group of nine panelists (two of whom are my husband and me). Store the mask in clean and cool place. Yet each one fits differently depending on how its angled around the nose and chin, how pliable the material is, and whether the fasteners are ear loops or headbands. Considering that its sold only in bulk (100 masks), we thought it was cost-prohibitive for people whod like to make sure their mask fits before going all-in. (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.). 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. It also costs less (around $45 for 20 masks) than most other bifold-style N95s, which typically run about $3.50 or more per mask. At around $12 for 75 masks, the FLTR General Use Face Mask, sold at Costco, is one of the least-expensive surgical-style masks weve seen. Hold the face mask to cover nose and mouth, and pull each ear loop with each hand to wear. What is a medical-style mask, and do you need one? You can also do both. KN95, KF94, and FFP2 are internationally sourced respirators and therefore dont undergo the NIOSH approval process. Our panelists agreed, however, that it felt lightweight. Co., Inc.) With so many fake COVID face masks being sold online, it's important to pay attention to a few details when you order. Vida. 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. There are many varieties of KN95 masks available, but only a handful have been previously approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency usage in healthcare settings. Co., Inc.). Measuring just 5 inches vertically from top to bottom, the Korean-made and NIOSH-approved Dobu Mask 500 N95 is likely best for people with smaller faces; it barely covered my husbands mouth, and other testers on our panel equated it to wearing a bra cup or hamburger bun on their face. 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. Decontaminating an N95 mask for multiple wears could reduce the amount of pandemic-related environmental waste by 75% or more compared with disposing it after each use, the authors add. The supply chain "factory Guangzhou High Protection Recyclable Kn95 Masks 10-pack. Winner Medical confirmed to us that it designs masks according to a clients specifications while still ensuring the same protective effects. 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. NIOSH-approved N95 respirators are recommended for preventing transmission of the omicron variant of the coronavirus. This cup style N95 respirator mask has a foldable design that makes it easy to store. (Note that many masks were authorized before the FDA revoked their emergency authorizations in June 2021 following an increase in access to N95s). Stay tuned for future updates. 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. These useful baby and kid items were among the most-purchased Wirecutter picks in 2022. Co., Inc. Prices and availability are subject to change. The cup style N95 . KN95 and N95. Co., Bona Fide Masks ---(wholesale to)--- Dealers in U.S. and Canada or Sometimes cross-checking wasnt possible until we received the masks and found the product qualification certificatethe small slip of paper in the packaging that includes the details about the product and its manufacturer, which is usually half written in the language of the country the mask comes from. This odd-looking, oddly comfortable N95 is a NIOSH-approved respirator meant for nonmedical use. By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you're agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. People often encounter good filtration but a bad fit when shopping for a KN95. I can breathe better in it, though, since the nose portion (complete with a nose pad) has a less-steep slope. Part of HuffPost News. Try the orange or the navy for a welcome change from black, white, and. If you need just a few, a pack of five is available for less than $20. Input the serial numbers shown at bottom of the sticker. Bona Fide Masks: Powecom. Weve vetted the sellers and manufacturers to confirm that youre getting the genuine article. If you prefer a KF94 mask and have a narrower chin or smaller face, you might have better luck with masks from Dr. Puri, Blue, or Etiqa. 1. What we like: Were always down for a bargain, and this box of 50 is available for the best price weve seen so far for an FDA-cleared surgical mask. 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. N95. The N95 masks, which come from BYD Precision Manufacture Co., have been recalled due to not meeting the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health's particle filtration efficiency standards, according to the state Department of The company redacted the manufacturers name in the paperwork, again for proprietary reasons. 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. Levels 2 and 3 indicate at least 98% for the same particle-size range. 2. Powecom KN95 Respirator Face Masks (10 Pack) |. After two minutes, I forgot it was there. Because this mask hasnt yet undergone FDA clearance, we did our own filtration testing in collaboration with researchers at Colorado State and confirmed that, as advertised, it has a filtration efficiency of 99% for particles as small as 0.5 micron. in the whole USA. As its name indicates, the Medline ASTM Level 1 Procedure Face Mask with Ear Loops meets ASTM Level 1 standards, which means it blocks at least 95% of particles measuring 0.1 micron in diameter or larger. When dealing with a respiratory virus like. 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. As the CDC recommends, you can knot the ear loops and tuck the sides (this CDC video shows you how) or add an adjustable cloth face mask (like one of our picks) on top. 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. Keep the face mask clean before use. If its the right size for your face, youre likely to get a decent seal with the ridged, sturdily affixed, elastic headbands. Ball Chain Mfg. 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. 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. Another option is to wear disposable masks more than once. Masks Corp.(founded by The thick material proved much less breathable for our testers, and the headbands looked and felt like thick, albeit smooth, rubber bands. But also, KN95 and surgical-style masks dont always fit very well. If a retailer or manufacturer claims the KN95 masks are NIOSH-approved, you've most likely encountered a counterfeit product. KN95. Inc.with As a result, experts told us, it often makes sense to reuse disposable masksbut carefully, taking cues from what health-care workers did during the N95 respirator shortage earlier in the pandemic. Besides the typical box of 50, the masks are available in small batches of 10, in both regular and small sizes, and with ties instead of loops. Do not wash the face mask with water. Constructed with multiple layers of nonwoven fabric, an N95 respirator blocks out at least 95% of particles as small as 0.1 micron in diameter. 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. But they are a tad longer horizontally and come only in an ear-loop option. Do not use if the face mask is broken or with hole or leakage. Some N95 masks, like Wirecutters picks for dealing with smoke and dust, have valves for easier exhalation, but because they let unfiltered air escape, they are not useful in preventing the spread of communicable respiratory diseases.