N95 respirator masks are currently the best available masks for proper protection against coronavirus transmission. These masks have been approved by global health organizations and disease centers, so naturally, the demand for N95 masks has skyrocketed in the past few months.
But, even so, people still don’t know which sources and sellers of N95 masks are legit and sell certified masks. With great demand, there came numerous N95 masks counterfeits being sold as legit, certified ones. So, it is understandable that the general population may not have access to the actual N95 masks.
That is why we’ve comprised a list of certified and approved N95 mask sellers. In the following paragraphs, you’ll be able to choose from several companies, either from the USA or elsewhere, which sell NIOSH, OSHA, CDC and WHO approved masks and personal protective equipment. So, let’s get started!
N95 Masks – Quick Overview
About N95 Masks
N95 masks are respiratory protective devices intended to protect against airborne particles through filtration. The masks are used in healthcare settings but are also suitable for use by the general public. Before the coronavirus pandemic, N95 masks were used primarily in industrial settings, or settings where workers are exposed to harmful airborne particles or toxins.
Nowadays, these masks are high in demand because of their effective filtration and protection against COVID-19. N95 masks are regulated by the FDA as class II devices, as well as by the CDC and NIOSH under the CFR part 84 regulation. Here is some other useful info about N95 masks everyone should know before buying them;
- N95 masks are designed to provide at least 95% filtration efficiency and protection against airborne particles, viruses, bacteria, bodily fluids, etc.
- N95 masks are designed to have an airtight seal fit, which is further established through the use of the headbands and tight-fitting nosepiece.
- N95 masks are regulated by the FDA, as well as by NIOSH under the regulatory collaboration between FDA and NIOSH.
- N95 masks can be used by the general public, but the WHO and the CDC primarily recommend essential workers and healthcare personnel used these masks.
- N95 masks are the required protective equipment in cases of flights or movement around the airport premises.
- N95 masks can be used with other protective equipment, including goggles, face shields, protective gowns, etc.
- N95 masks can be used and reused up to 5 times, before being properly disposed of, according to NIOSH.
Things To Know Before Buying N95 Masks
Before buying N95 masks, there are some things you should look out for
- Fake N95 masks feature earloops, while legit, NIOSH evaluated and approved ones have headbands.
- The N95 masks should have a label on the packaging, usually that of NIOSH. If there’s nothing on the packaging, check the masks themselves for NIOSH abbreviation.
- Counterfeit N95 masks feature a misspelled NIOSH label (mostly spelled as NOISH).
- Legit N95 masks do not feature any kind of decoration, decorative fabrics, or add-ons, like sequins.
- N95 masks are not approved to be worn by children, just like other respirator masks. Children over the age of 2 are recommended for face masks, surgical masks, or tightly-woven cotton masks.
- People who experience breathing difficulties, increased skin temperature, skin issues, increased heart rate, and other mask-related issues should avoid wearing respirator masks like N95.
Best N95 Mask Providers And Sellers
1. Clinical Supplies
Best for: general indoor and outdoor protection, protection against virus transmission, pollution, dust, use for healthcare personnel as well as the general public, etc.
If you’re looking to buy American-made N95 respirator masks, that are made and shipped by an American, reliable supplier, then make sure to check out Clinical Supplies. They officially provide N95 masks to over 50,000+ customers across the country. Their masks are NIOSH evaluated and approved and made according to the current CDC guidelines. Clinical Supplies provide a choice for their customer between 3M N95 masks and regular N95 masks, which is a great way for everyone to choose the protective equipment they need the most. Among N95 masks, Clinical Supplies provides an array of other protective equipment, all made in the USA.
Mask Highlights And Features
- A variety of different N95 masks
- All masks are NIOSH evaluated and approved
- The filtering efficiency is at least 95% for the non-oil airborne particle as small as 0.3 microns
- Masks available in bundles from several dozens to several thousand pieces
- The majority of masks are American-made (clearly indicated on the site)
- Comfortable, flexible, and designed to fit all shapes and sizes of faces
- Versatile application; used for protection against virus transmission, pollution, dust, and different airborne particles, small or large
- Profit from the masks is provided to different charity organizations
2. Almond Shield
Best for: general indoor and outdoor protection, healthcare personnel, the general public, use with other protective equipment, etc.
If you’re looking to buy high-quality, NIOSH approved N95 masks, we recommend you start by checking out Almond Shield. Here you can find a variety of N95 respirator masks, where every mask is made from high-quality materials, in accordance with the CDC recommendations. The masks are comfortable and lightweight and are authentic NIOSH approved respirator masks. All of the masks are currently on sale (at the time of article publishing), where you can get 20 pieces on N95 masks for $98.90 instead of $109.90.
Mask Highlights And Features
- Disposable and foldable facial and respirator N95 masks
- Intended for the use by healthcare personnel but also the general public
- Guaranteed filtering efficiency of 95%
- Filtration efficiency against non-oil particles, down to 0.3 microns
- Evaluated, tested, and approved by NIOSH, per requirements in 42 CFR Part 84
- Comfortable, foldable, lightweight, and don’t cause red marks or rashes on the face
- Suitable for use with goggles, face shields, safety helmets, ear muffs, etc.
3. Cov Care N95 Masks
Best for: protection against airborne particles and infection transmission, healthcare personnel and the general public, etc.
Another place you can buy N95 masks from is Cov Care. Here, you can find NIOSH approved respirator masks that are made and designed in line with the CDC recommendations and guidelines. The masks are of premium quality and have a filtering efficiency of at least 95% against non-oil airborne particles. The masks are currently on sale, and come in packs of 3 to 5000 pieces per pack, depending on your needs. The masks can be used by the healthcare providers, essential workers as well as the general public, together with the other protective equipment.
Mask Highlights And Features
- Disposable respirator N95 masks
- Intended for use by healthcare personnel as well as the general public
- Filtering efficiency at least 95% against non-oil airborne particles
- Nose foam cushioning with adjustable metal nose piece
- High-efficiency electrostatic filter cotton and melt blown, non-woven fabric
- Glue-free and odorless
- NIOSH evaluated and approved
- CE certified masks, manufactured to EEA standards
4. N95MaskCo
Best for: general indoor and outdoor protection, healthcare personnel use, the general public, use by essential workers, etc.
Another seller of high-quality N95 masks is the N95MaskCo company. They sell some of the highest quality N95 masks on the market. The masks are NIOSH approved respirator masks that are made by the current industry standards. They are designed to have a filtering efficiency of at least 95% in regards to 0.3 microns non-oil, airborne particles. The masks are not currently (at the time of article publishing) on sale. However, clients can subscribe to the company, on their website and get 10% off for every purchase, which is a great deal.
Mask Highlights And Features
- Disposable, cup-style N95 respirator masks
- NIOSH and CDC evaluated and approved
- Intended for use by healthcare personnel and general public
- Filtering efficiency at least 95% against airborne particles of 0.3 microns
- Easy and flexible design, don’t leave red marks or cause skin rashes
- Comfortable head and neck bands for an easy and safe wear
- Cup design for a better and tighter fit around the face
- Pair well with other protective equipment
5. Well Before
Best for: general indoor and outdoor protection, essential workers and the general public, suitable for healthcare personnel as well, etc.
If none of the previously mentioned companies and brands meet your mask requirements, then you should check out Well Before. Here you can choose from a variety of N95 masks, and find the one that will fit your budget as well as provide high-quality protection in these testing times. The masks are incredibly affordable, and the majority of them are currently on sale (at the time of article publishing). At Well Before you can find the always reliable 3M N95 masks, as well as other regular variations, which are NIOSH approved, of course.
Mask Highlights And Features
- Disposable and flexible N95 respirator masks
- Some types are made in the USA, while others are made in China
- Filtering efficiency at least 95% for non-oil, airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns
- All masks are NIOSH evaluated and approved, while others are FDA evaluated as well
- Comfortable and suitable for all shapes and sizes of faces
- Practical headbands for better fit and security
- The masks fit snuggly around the nose, and under the chin
- Do not leave marks or cause skin rashes
- Breathable and easy to wear
Final Thoughts
N95 mask can be an exceptional piece of protective equipment if made properly and approved by the leading health agencies. We recommend that every adult wears a respirator mask, but also be aware of the fact that these masks are primarily intended for healthcare providers.
So, if you can, substitute a respirator masks for a surgical or tightly-woven cotton mask. If not, at least make sure to wear a legit and certified N95 mask, so you can keep yourself and others completely safe. If you suspect that a company or brand sells fake N95 masks, feel free to check the FDA DataBase for all registered and approved providers and sellers of personal protective equipment.