7 Best N95 Respirator Face Masks [2023] | Vitality Medical (2024)

The 3M 1860 is a well known N95 mask. Its use includes surgery, patient care, industrial respiratory protection, and a host of everyday utilization. The construction of this disposable mask consists of an advanced electrostatic material to collect and trap harmful particles. It is resistant to fluid spatters and airborne biological particulates. This cup-shaped respiratory filter comes with a braided comfort strap to secure the device in place. The construction includes moldable foam around the nose for a comfortable fit and a good seal. Its design supports personal and patient safety.

Product Specifications

• Product Numbers: 1860, 1860S
• Lightweight
• Color: Teal
• Design: Cup Shape
• Collapse Resistant
• OSHA: 1910.134 Compliant
• NIOSH: Approved
• CDC Approval: 84A-0006
• FDA: Cleared for Surgical Use
• Fluid Resistance: 120mm Hg
• ASTM F1862 Fluid Resistance: Yes
• Flammability Rating: Class 1
• CDC Clearance: Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Exposure Control
• Applications: Clinics, Operating Rooms, Patient Care, TB Wards, Infection Control, Laboratory, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT), Pandemics
• Headband: Braided
• Nose: Foam Cushioning
• Latex-free
• Packaging: Bulk
• Made in USA
• Manufacturer: 3M

Fitting Instructions

3M 1860 and 1860S Respirator Fitting Instructions Video (4.40 minutes)

The 3M 1870 is a top-selling N95 particulate respirator mask that offers protection during surgeries. Like the 1860, its construction includes an advanced electrostatic material. An embossed top panel helps to reduce fogging of eyeglasses and magnification instruments. This respiratory device is fluid-resistant and an excellent filter for airborne contagions and infectious particles. Its flat fold design and individually packaged containment provide for safer storage and distribution. A chin tab offers easier donning, positioning, and adjustment. The sculptured top panel provides more room for eyewear.

Product Specifications

• Product Numbers: 1870
• Color: Off-White
• Design: Flat Shape
• NIOSH: Approved
• CDC Approval: 84A3844
• CDC Clearance: Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Exposure Control
• FDA: Cleared for Surgical Use
• Fluid Resistance: 160mm Hg
• ASTM F1862 Fluid Resistance: Yes
• ASTM D2859-96 Flame Resistance: No
• Flammability Rating: Class 1
• Headband: Stapled Attachment
• Nose: Foam Cushioning
• Applications: Labor and Delivery, Clinics, Operating Rooms, Patient Care, TB Wards, Infection Control, Laboratory, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT), Pandemics
• Latex-free
• Packaging: Individual
• Manufacturer: 3M

Fitting Instructions

3M Cool Flow Valve Face Masks offer the user a more comfortable experience with less moisture buildup. The nose has a foam cushion for a comfortable fit. A flexible noseband or nose clip on the outside aids in forming a tight seal. A good seal reduces the fogging of glasses. Like the other two 3M products above, this respiratory device employs an advanced electrostatic construction. Although this mask protects the user and is more comfortable, it can pass contaminants from the user to other nearby personnel through the value.

Product Specifications

• Product Number: 8210V
• Color: White
• Design: Cup Shape
• NIOSH: Approved
• OSHA: No
• CDC Approval: 84-5410
• FDA: Not Cleared
• Fluid Resistance: 160mm Hg
• ASTM F1862 Fluid Resistance: N/A
• ASTM D2859-96 Flame Resistance: No
• Flammability Rating: N/A
• CDC Clearance: None
• Headband: Stapled Attachment, Double Straps
• Nose: Foam Cushioning
• Applications: Sanding, Grinding, Sweeping, and Other Dusty Conditions
• Latex-free
• Packaging: Bulk
• Manufacturer: 3M

Fitting Instructions

Dust Mask with Valve Video (0:30 minutes)

The Harley L-188 N95 Mask is a foldable mask with a cup shape while worn on the face of the user. Its construction is with non-woven cotton fabric. The manufacturing uses electrostatic processing of the material to offer high efficiency. It does not provide a liquid barrier, nor is it for surgical use. These tight-fitting masks conform to the user's face and nose, forming a good seal. This respirator stops up to 95% of airborne particles of .3 microns or larger. The straps are elastic and manufactured from a more comfortable material compared to many other masks. Instead of stapling, the manufacturer fuses the elastic bands to the respirator.

Product Specifications

• Product Number: L-188
• Color: White
• Design: Foldable Cup Shape
• NIOSH: Approved TC-84A-6973
• CDC: 84A-6973
• FDA: Not Cleared
• Fluid Resistance: N/A
• ASTM F1862 Fluid Resistance: N/A
• ASTM D2859-96 Flame Resistance: No
• Flammability Rating: N/A
• CDC Clearance: Meets CDC Modified Testing Statement https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/respirators/testing/results/MTT-2020-192.3_International_GuangzhouHarley_L-188_TestReport_Redacted-508.pdf
• Headband: Fused Attachment
• Nose: Foam Padding
• Applications: Sanding, Grinding, Sweeping, and Other Dusty Conditions
• Latex-free
• Packaging: Bulk
• Manufacturer: Harley Commodity

Fitting Instructions

Harley L-188 N95 Face Mask Respirator Video (0:46 minutes)

The FluidShield N95 Respirator Face Mask has four-layer construction that includes a fluid-resistant layer, a skin-friendly soft lining, and a large pouch-type breathing chamber. This large chamber allows more air to pass through for easier breathing and less fog for eyewear. It offers an effective facial seal and is NIOSH-approved. Two polyurethane headbands bond to the mask instead of stapling like many other masks. This method provides a more lasting and secure fit. It is easily identifiable with its duckbill appearance.

• Product Numbers: 46727, 46827
• Color: Orange
• Weight: 11.2 Ounce
• Design: Duckbill Shape
• Four Layers
• Large Breathing Chamber
• Volume: 5-Cubic Inch
• NIOSH: Approved
• CDC Approval: 84A-0010, 84A-0005
• FDA: Cleared as Medical Device
• ASTM: Level 3 Fluid Protection
• Headband: Bonded to Mask
• Nose: Malleable, Adjustable Nose Wire
• Applications: Patient Care, TB Wards, Infection Control, Laboratory, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT), Pandemics, Clinics, Operating Rooms
• Latex-free
• Packaging: Bulk
• Manufacturer: Kimberly Clark
• Brand: Halyard

Fitting Instructions

How to Wear Duckbill Masks Video (3:34 minutes)

The Harley L-288 N95 Mask is a molded, semi-rigid mask approved by NIOSH as an N95 respirator. The inner layer construction consists of non-woven, synthetic polyester material. A melt-blown polypropylene filter fabric forms the middle layer, while the outer layer construction is a non-woven, synthetic polyester. Medical and industry workers highly respect the Harley respirators worldwide.

Product Specifications

• Product Numbers: L-288
• Color: White
• Design: Cup Respirator
• High Filtration Capacity
• NIOSH: Approved TC-84A-7228
• CDC Approval: 84A-7228
• FDA: 878.0404
• Headband: Bonded to Mask
• Nose: Malleable Aluminum Clasp, Adjustable Nose Piece, Padded
• Applications: Smog, Dust
• Durable
• Hypoallergenic
• Latex-free
• Packaging: Bulk
• Manufacturer: Guangzhou Harley Commodity Company

CDC Findings for Model L-288
Fitting Instructions

Harley L-288 N95 Face Mask Respirator Review Video (0:30 minutes)

3M 8210 N95 particulate respirator masks offer lightweight protection against dust. Its construction is with advanced electrostatically charged microfibers, making breathing more comfortable and cooler. This respirator offers a custom fit and an effective seal against harmful contaminants. Its design wards-off eyewear fogging. This facial filter meets the FDA's Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for COVID-19 for healthcare professionals; however, it is not fluid-resistant and requires a face shield for adequate protection.

Product Specifications

• Product Numbers: 8210
• Color: White
• Design: Cup Style Respirator
• Lightweight Construction
• Accommodates Long-Wear Times
• NIOSH: Approved TC-84A-0007
• CDC Approval: 84A-0007
• FDA: 878.0404 (Not For Use As a Surgical Mask)
• OSHA: 29 CFR 1910.134
• Not Fluid Resistant
• Headband: Two Straps with Welded Dual Point Attachment to Mask
• Do Not Use For Paint Spray, Asbestos, Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead, or Sandblasting
• Nose: Cushioning Nose Foam
• Applications: Sanding, Grinding, Sweeping, Bagging, Woodworking, Foundries, Food Processing
• Latex-free
• Packaging: Bulk
• Manufacturer: 3M

Use Instructions

3M N95 8210 Respirator Mask Fitting Video (1:19 minutes)

An N95 mask is a designation from the FDA that a respirator product meets specific filtering and protection guidelines. The FDA does not test or certify masks. Instead, they authorize N95 masks for sale after reviewing the manufacturer's test data and proposed marketing and advertising claims. Manufacturers test their protective products for particle filtration, fluid resistance, flammability and submit the results along with their marketing claims to the FDA for clearance.

Government Approval and Recommendations

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have set guidelines for the manufacture of personal protective equipment (PPE) that effectively removes hazardous airborne particles. These organizations also make recommendations to healthcare workers and the public in wearing protective gear that will help ensure healthier outcomes.

CDC Mask Recommendations

COVID viruses spread through aerosol droplets that commute by coughing, sneezing, talking, and singing. People who are asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic can spread these viruses to others. The CDC released information on the protective mask used to protect against pandemics and airborne illnesses. Any mask is better than no mask. Some masks are better than others. It is essential that the mask completely seal the area around the nose and mouth. Any gaps can allow harmful particles to enter the respiratory system. N95 masks are particularly good at forming the proper seal and filtering out at least 95% of the harmful particulates.

CDC Mask Guidelines
FDA Mask Guidelines

Top N95 Respirator Mask Brands

Three Top Selling Brands

1. 3M
2. Kimberly Clark
3. Harley