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Here is how to find a mask that meets industry fit and structure standards.

Officials from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continue to advise unvaccinated people and fully vaccinated Americans to wear masks in indoor spaces that may be poorly ventilated. And since COVID-19 continues to spread and cause breakthrough cases due to the virus Delta variant, it is more important than ever to upgrade your mask collection in public for maximum protection.

Earlier this year, federal health officials put forward a proposal for dual masks to help Americans make safer masks-disposable surgical masks are very suitable for single use when you shorten the ear loops. "The fit is very important. There are some techniques to make these masks fit better, such as adding a new parallel line to the nose strap," said Dr. Steven Rogak, a professor of mechanical engineering at the University of British Columbia, who conducted field tests. The effect of mask fabric. "Earrings can also be tied close to the mask attachment. These things are not generally effective, but for everyone, it is important to find a way to make the mask fit better."

Research published by the CDC shows that tightly fitting disposable medical masks (sometimes called surgical masks!) can greatly reduce the spread of COVID-19 through airborne particles and infectious respiratory droplets. It also provides more protection: the study’s laboratory results show that if everyone wears a tight-fitting mask in public, the risk of transmission can be reduced by as much as 96%. However, especially for medical masks, data shows that compared to cloth-based sewn masks, ordinary disposable masks can provide more protection-when the knots are tightly fitted, the effectiveness of reducing transmission is increased by 25% .

Textile Director Lexie Sachs explained that if you are looking for a disposable mask that has been tested and can provide you with similar protection as outlined in the CDC-sponsored study, you need to look for a label that shows that it meets certain standards. Place.

These guidelines come from ASTM, a group of industry professionals who develop testing standards for countless products (including entire masks!). ASTM F2100-20 outlines the standards for disposable masks. This is a set of standards that guide manufacturers to design to create first-class medical masks related to structure and fit. Sachs explained that ASTM standards require filtration efficiency testing and testing for protection against any fluid in the medical environment. Manufacturers submit disposable medical masks to laboratories that follow the ASTM protocol for testing. Brands can use one of three levels of certification based on the results; levels 1 to 3 indicate how rigorous the test it has undergone (level 3 is the most Protective!).

In addition, the standard focuses on:

Sachs recommends that you should look for a language that says "ASTM F2100" on any mask page you encounter from a retailer. The manufacturer should also clearly state the level of certification it has, with level 3 being the most protective. Although the standard is not required for the sale of medical masks, it is the easiest way for shoppers to know which masks have actually been independently tested.

Below, we will share disposable medical masks. The labels of these masks comply with ASTM standards and have won the highest ratings from shoppers. If you are interested in inserting a filter layer under your favorite cloth mask, these will be good choices. Here are 10 well-made disposable masks available for purchase now:

Hygenix's mask structure allows for a full fit, allowing you to knot earrings if necessary-or expand the folds of the mask to fit a larger face. Thanks to their nearly perfect design, these masks can be worn effectively on their own or under the fabric mask of your choice. Although batch options are not available, these 50-piece packages are very useful for small offices or spaces where individuals need to wear masks on a regular basis.

According to the manufacturer, these 3-layer masks are manufactured in North Carolina and are designed to satisfy customer feedback while maintaining ASTM classification. You can also check the classification results of masks by scanning the QR code on the box. The 50 pieces are sealed in a reusable bag, which may be useful for those who are outside and need to change their wet masks throughout the day. They come in several different colors, including this lavender hue, suitable for those who are looking for a little sparkle when they are cover up.

Although its structure is designed as 4 layers, almost all top reviews left by shoppers mention the breathability of this mask. The price point makes them an excellent choice for any environment where people frequently move in and out, from businesses to offices and more. These masks can be worn under another cloth-based option, or they can be worn individually. "The earrings and the mask are very firmly combined, there is no chemical smell," shared a comment.

These surgical masks have been tested for combustion and electrostatic charge, and are made of 3 layers of non-woven fabric, which are very strong. The outer layer is specially made to repel moisture or liquids, while the other side of the mask facing the skin is designed to be soft and comfortable. If needed, the elastic earrings on the mask can be shortened and work well with the extra fabric mask on the front. "Tested under the kitchen tap, they seem to be the same as advertised," a shopper shared.

It is difficult to find disposable masks specifically designed for children; this competitive option may or may not be ASTM certified. But Vaxxen Labs manufactures disposable masks of various sizes to ensure a true fit. According to reviewers, the small features of this mask make it more suitable for school-age children and teenagers, especially.

If you have a large head or face, this disposable medical mask may be best for you. Shoppers said that the front face of the 4-layer mask is larger than other models, and the ring of the mask is large to avoid ear fatigue. There is a plastic clip that can be fixed above the bridge of the nose, if you choose to wear two, it can fix a cloth-based mask.

This 3-layer disposable medical mask comes in more than 10 different colors and will surely make any child excited. The bulk option makes it easy to put them in any backpack or sports bag for afternoon activities; they are made of an absorbent non-woven inner layer, making them comfortable during sports activities. "It's perfect for my 2 and 4 year old toddlers," shared one critic.

These dark disposable masks are manufactured in North Carolina and are designed with a 3-layer scheme in mind, mixing a non-woven outer fabric with a softer facial lining. Nylon spandex ear hooks are designed to fit faces of all shapes and sizes, especially for those who may have difficulty finding a comfortable choice. One commenter shared: “There are not too many gaps on the sides of the mask and there is no smell, just like all other masks I have tried.”

Made by manufacturers who design PPE for dental professionals, these vibrant disposable masks are designed to be as soft and comfortable as possible. The mask is designed to fully fit the top of your nose and under your chin. It is equipped with a nose clip to fix the mask on your face.

Surgical masks are technically designed to be tied to your dental crown, but these masks can be tied anywhere on the nape of the neck to ensure a tight fit. The added benefit of a surgical mask is that it can reduce the pressure you may feel due to ear hooks, especially when you are in a place where you need to wear a mask all day. The manufacturer puts 10 masks into three separate sealed packages for ease of use.