You’ll know about the Best N95 mask in India and also the price of best N99 masks etc. Keeping a couple anti pollution dust masks or respirators is crucial these days. Its an unwanted expense to need to buy pollution masks. On some days its the suffocating pollution levels due to dust, smog or vehicular fumes and now this Coronavirus pandemic. We all know how face masks protect us to become so essential. Its prudent to wear N95 masks or even plain cotton masks for saving self and sometimes others. A top pollution mask prevents spikes in pollution to impact you directly. Whether its the dust storms or broken roads or the poisonous fumes from nasty traffic jams, sources are pollution are so many. A N95 mask price is nothing in front of one’s health and well-being. We have compiled a list of the Best Pollution Mask in India.
#2 BESTSELLER CAREVIEW SET OF 10 N95 MASKS
There’s would hardly be any human who wouldn’t have to wear a face mask in the last one year! Masks are made from specialized materials which trap airborne pollutants. Special fabric technology gives the mask material the ability to arrest pollutants. N95 and N99 masks are popular ratings of masks certified by NIOSH. N95 masks give a slightly lesser protection from particulate matter than N99 masks. Surgical Masks can be considered for limited (max 60%) protection against dust.
BEST N95 And N99 POLLUTION MASKS
Which One Is Better N99 or N95 Masks?
This is a pertinent question every other person has. You are greeted with a choice to buy either N95 masks or N99 masks mostly. The answer is straightforward and let me explain it real quick. N99 masks provide a maximum 4% extra protection as compared to N95 masks. Note the word ‘maximum’ here. An N95 mask does not just stop 95% of all particulates. 95% is the minimum assured value. Most N95 masks have even more efficiency than just 95%. So, the merit of N99 masks is further diminished compared to N95 masks.
N99 masks are best pollution masks for those hellish days when the AQI nosedives. Burning of crop stubble whenever it starts in Punjab and Haryana, deteriorates the air quality too much. But, the wearer of N99 masks may face a greater breathing resistance. People who follow an active lifestyle like running, jogging or cycling may suffer due to this. For children, pregnant women or senior citizens using only the best N95 masks suffice. Patients of asthma, heart problems or COPD should never consider going for N99 or P100 masks.
QUICKLY CHOOSE BEST MASK FOR POLLUTION
#1 CHOICE IN INDIA → VENUS POLLUTION MASK
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I would have liked to rate 3M masks as the No.1 masks. But, these days they may be unavailable most of the times. Venus offers a wide range of PM2.5 masks. It offers N95 masks, N99 masks and FFP1 masks and a wide range of other masks with replaceable cartridges. There are masks with valves and without valves, whatever your need may be, options are available. Most importantly these masks are always in stock, unlike Honeywell masks or 3M masks.
Masks from Venus are originally NIOSH certified and even you can verify it. This is the agency which grants N95, N99 certifications to mask manufacturers. Without their approval no one can stamp or write “N95” or “N99” on their masks.
TEST FOR ORIGINAL VENUS MASKS
Chances are that the name Venus does not sound familiar to you. Most likely Venus is the only Indian mask maker which has been certified by NIOSH.
You can verify the authenticity (genuineness) of the mask using the markings printed on it. Visit this URL. You’ll see Venus masks feature in the official USA CDC (Center For Disease Control) website.
You’ll notice something like TA-84A-XXXX written over your Venus masks. Just go to this American CDC website, as can be seen in the screenshot above. If you locate the mask model number there, it is a genuine N95 mask. Similarly you can check whether other mask brands you see on Amazon or other online marketplaces. I bet you won’t find a trace of 99% of those brands which claim to be selling N95 masks.
#2 N95 MASK IN US & INDIA → 3M MASKS
There are a whole lot of masks from different brands, have you tried searching? Especially with the recent boom in demand, many fake masks are being sold. Its important to beware of counterfeit masks which otherwise give a false sense of security. When it comes to industrial supplies, 3M is a shining name. Really, 3M makes all classes of masks like N99, N95, P95, P100 and N100 to FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3. We have a separate post which explains what these ratings and classes mean. But, for you its important to know that 3M masks are trustworthy.
Masks without valves are recommended for protection against COVID19 infection. Specially for the Omicron variant which is very infective, cotton masks are useless.
CHECK 3M N95 MASK PRICE IN INDIA
There is an ongoing shortage of masks from well-known companies like 3M online. You may not find specific mask model which we recommend. Still, for combating the Coronavirus, even a dust mask is sufficient, so do not bother. If you can get your hands around genuine 3M mask India available online? Just buy it.
With the outbreak of Coronavirus, the demand for masks has risen exponentially.
There is a summary of features for each air mask for your convenience.
#1 CHOICE IN USA → ASTRO AI REUSABLE POLLUTION MASK
What I liked about this mask from ASTRO AI is its breathable fabric. Since its outer material is made from nylon, its very durable. You get atleast three filter replacements so that your protection is not compromised. Debrief Me N99 Masks are cool too. It is among the Best Reusable Pollution Masks With Replaceable Filters.
GOOD TO KNOW
✔ It has an activated carbon filter that removes 99% of dust, chemicals, fumes and particulates.
✔ The outer side is a nylon mesh which is strong and long lasting. This mask is ideal for wearing for long duration in warmer environments. Your skin does not become sweaty and hence no discomfort.
✔ The nose clip is adjustable and if worn correctly provides all-round seal.
✔ Hanging Ear Design keeps the mask from slipping.
✔ Adjustable hook & loop Strap get the perfect fit. Easy on, easy off.
✔ There are two valves and they open slightly when you exhale. This prevents fogging on your glasses and heat buildup inside mask.
✔ The mesh which is nylon and the valves can be washed safely. Its inner filter you already know are replaceable.
The below countdown lists some of the best pollution masks. Now, masks can be N99 as well as N95. First we have listed the N99 ones which provide ultimate protection against pollution. Then some of the better N95 masks have been reviewed. There’s nothing like a best mask for Delhi or best mask for Bengaluru. A mask made of the right material, correct fit and high NIOSH grade would work well everywhere!
Yes, for regions which are unusually hot, proper selection of mask is needed. One must be able to bear wearing the mask right!
BEST N99 MASKS
1. 3M 9332 AURA BEST N99 ANTI POLLUTION MASK
3M is an American company and offers a wide range of products, car owners would know. This Aura 9332+ mask from 3M may be not so easy to wear but once on, its one of the best N99 masks out there. 3M offers a wide selection of NIOSH-approved filtering face-piece respirators too. The company uses a variety of innovative technologies and features designed to enhance user comfort and help increase wear time. Independent tests have shown 3M Aura 9332 stops 99.8% of 0.01 – 1.0 micron sized particles. This is by far the Best N99 Mask In India and we mean it. Its ear bands are slightly cumbersome to wear. That’s the only reason why its fourth in the countdown.
As far as protection against PM2.5 is concerned, its the NUMBER ONE MASK IN INDIA. But, due to a great surge in demand it may not be available. A good 3M 1870+ N95 Mask must be available at this time.
3M MASK INDIA PRICE ON AMAZON
THE 3M COOL FLOW VALVE TECHNOLOGY
Most 3M disposable and reusable respirators have valves. These valves are designed to maximize breathing comfort and exhalation. Valves help releasing the user’s exhaled breath quickly. The 3M™ Cool Flow™ Valve helps to reduce heat and moisture build-up inside the face piece. Additionally, the valve cover helps direct exhaled air downward and away from the face. On average, disposable respirators with a 3M™ Cool Flow™ Valve are up to 7.5 degrees cooler inside the face piece than similar models without the valve.
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2. GrinHealth Best N99 Pollution Mask
The level of pollution that Delhi NCR witnessed in November 2019 and again in October 2020, is unseen and unheard of. GrinHealth masks are a bit costly but then N99 masks do come at an extra cost. It is one of the Best N99 Pollution Masks. Even an AQI of 700 and above can be fought well using this mask. Clean air has become a luxury which even the rich people are finding it hard to get!
GrinHealth Masks; you would see the difference in sophistication just by the looks of it. It has a HEPA filter layer to remove the smallest of particulates. The material is extremely comfy to wear. You can wear the mask in two ways. One, the normal way to cling it to the ears. The other and the more comfy way is to tie it around your head via its braided strings.
An activated carbon layer may be present out of the 4 or 5 layers in your mask. But, this make the mask non-reusable.
N99 MASK PRICE ON AMAZON INDIA
You may not find the GrinHealth N99 mask as it is often out of stock. In that case there’s a great GrinHealth P95 Mask which is better than N95 masks. P95 masks are oil resistant and protect from aerosols. GrinHealth is the best reusable N95 Mask since it is washable.
WHAT ARE PM2.5 PARTICLES?
Throughout the length and breadth of this article you see ‘PM2.5’ written. PM2.5 is the name given to particles with size less than 2.5 microns in diameter. Sometimes PM2.5 particles are also referred to as ‘fine particles’. These particles are 30 times smaller than your hair’s width. Such fine particles can easily make their way into the lungs and ultimately into the blood.
Fine particles need not be of only dust, they can even be harmful chemicals. The ill-effects of PM2.5 may take some time to show signs. But, whenever they do, they manifest as cancer, lung diseases, strokes and other illnesses. Children, pregnant women and old-aged people at a higher risk. Children, because it’s their growth years have to be protected the most. They have their whole life ahead of them. Senior citizens because of their age related bodily degradation face grater risks.
3. OXICLEAR Best N99 Mask in India
Oxiclear makes good Made in India masks. The good thing about them is that a set of 4 replaceable filters comes along with the mask. There are masks with and without valves. The mask material is brushed cotton. You can wash the outer cotton part of the mask but first remove the filter as wetting it reduces its efficiency. It is advisable to change the filter after 14 – 21 days of use. The filters contain not just activated carbon but also magnesium dioxide and copper oxide to remove even more pollutants. These are not certified by NIOSH but may have the same efficiency as N99 masks. Moreover, the company openly markets the name of DRDO to have certified its masks.
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FEATURES
- Oxiclear masks allegedly have 99.47% filtration efficiency as tested by the government body DRDO.
- These masks are 5-layered with a mix of cotton and non-woven fabrics.
- The ear loops and nose bridges are adjustable.
- The Oxiclear masks have a good user rating and reviews.
- Masks that come with a valve provide seamless outflow of exhaled air providing better comfort.
- There are multiple designs and colors to choose from. Like Military Combat, Lush Pink, Maroon, etc.
- It is made of ultra-soft fabric that’s gentle on skin and provides comfortable-fit.
The downside is that there is no size to choose from. A mask cannot be a one-size-fits-it-all thing. However, the adjustable ear bands in a way can be used to tighten the grip on the face.
4. Cambridge N99 Air Pollution Face Mask
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We have a detailed Review of the Cambridge Air Masks. It is a great product, though costly but definitely not inferior. Cambridge masks are military grade masks for very high deterrence against PM2.5 and even PM0.3 particles. These masks are imported so not price effective for India. Valves prevent moisture buildup and ensure easy breathing. Consider getting a mask with more valves for rigorous activities like cycling or sports.
Can Surgical Masks Protect Against Pollution?
The straight answer is No. Surgical masks, the green masks worn by doctors are of no use when it comes to anti-pollution use. These masks only shield the patient from the body fluids of the doctor/nurse. Surgical masks can provide only limited protection against dust. With their loose fit they definitely do not protection against Delhi dust storms. Surgical masks give just about 78% protection against dust which is not good enough.
N99 vs N95 Mask (Is N99 Better Than N95 ?)
An N99 Mask is always better to buy if you face severe pollution in your area. An N99 mask has a great 99% efficiency in stopping air pollutants. The material used to make N99 masks is denser. Hence, you may feel more breathing resistance with an N99 Mask.
The point to note here is that a pollution mask is useless unless it fits your face well. There should not be any any air leakages from the mask edges. Infact, to test it blow air while putting it on and observe whether it gushes out from any side. A well-fit pollution mask should blow up like a balloon.
An N95 mask as the name suggests has at least 95% success rate in stopping air-borne pollutants. Wearer of an N95 mask experiences lesser resistance to breathing than an N99 mask.
Caution
Do not think that wearing a N99 or N95 mask makes you immune to all kind of poisonous things. N99 or N95 pollution masks do not stop oil or aerosols. Aerosols are very fine droplets of chemical suspended in a liquid.
How To Know The Best Fit Size of Your Air Pollution Mask?
The most difficult part of buying an air mask is to spot the right size. An Air Mask which does not fit properly is of no use. Researches show that an ill-fit mask provides just 35% efficiency in stopping pollution. Rest 65% goes directly in your breath! There should be no gap or loose spots left which let the outside polluted air through. Half face masks cover the face from the chin to the top of the nose.
There’s a Size For You Out There!
Most brands offer Small, Medium and Large size masks. Generally the body weight and age of the user are the best indicators of size. Mask size which fits you well would be comfortable to wear. Even after prolonged use your ears, nose or face should feel comfortable if you have chosen the right size.
What’s The Mask Fitting Test For A Perfect Fit?
- Wear you mask normally.
- Apply pressure on the nose clips/bridge for the mask to bend and take the shape of your nose.
- Ensure that the head bands or ear bands are making a firm grip on your face. The mask should not move even when you are performing rigorous activity.
- Ensure that the Silicone covering inside the Valve is in its proper place.
- Blow air forcefully and in quick succession from your nose.
- If the mask inflates and deflates as you exhale and inhale and you do not feel any air leaking from the sides, the mask is the correct size.
How To Wash Your Air Pollution Mask Safely?
With time, the outer and the inner layers get dirty and naturally so. To not let the mask itself be a playing ground of harmful germs, its essential to wash it periodically. Below are the steps to clean your Anti Pollution Masks:
- Rinse outer and inner layer with water.
- Add a drop of liquid dish washing soap. Do not use harsh disinfectants or chemicals.
- Rinse again and hang to fully dry before storage.
- Contaminants cannot multiply on textile without moisture.
NOTE– Do not wash your mask which has carbon layer too often. The more you wash them, they lose their effectiveness against gaseous pollutants and odors.
BEST N95 MASK PRICE IN INDIA
How To Know When To Replace The Mask?
As you use your mask regularly, despite regular washing, the filtering media in the air mask gets saturated with pollutants. This reduces the breath-ability of the air mask. When it starts to feel that you have to put in extra effort for every breath, its time to change the mask. Don’t tolerate the inhalation resistance, as it means that your mask has lost its purification capacity.
Is It Normal To Experience Breathing Resistance With Mask ?
The answer is Yes! Its obvious that nothing can feel more relaxing than breathing from your nostrils unobstructed. All high efficiency anti pollution masks present this resistance. The feeling soon vanishes once you get used to wearing it or stop noticing. NIOSH has a set criteria for measuring this air resistance. If you are using a genuine N99/N95 mask, it should be good to go!
5. Honeywell Best N95 Anti Pollution Mask
Honeywell which has impressed one and all with its range of air purifiers, also produces air masks. Like its air purifiers, the air masks too are good quality products. There are 6 varieties available from Honeywell with 3 each with/without valve. The above pic is of H801V, the only Honeywell N95 mask with valve. anti pollution masks are economical to buy. Others are KN95 grade which is the Chinese equivalent of N95 but somewhat inferior.
The good thing is that they offer separate smaller masks for kids. This one is a good PM2.5 Mask for kids.
See Detailed Best Honeywell Masks Post
The Honeywell H801V N95 mask is cup shaped which is another USP. Why we say this is because it forms a good face-fit by default. The head band is without staples hence its comfortable to wear and does not pinch. As you can make out, an exhalation valve is provided. A valve facilitates that the exhaled CO2 laden air is let out. Plus the vapor and moisture in the exhaled air gets a passage.
HONEYWELL MASK PRICE ON AMAZON
6. Honeywell KN95 PM 2.5 Foldable Anti Pollution Mask
MASK PRICE ON AMAZON
Here’s a bestselling KN95 mask we talked of above. The best thing about this mask is that it is foldable. You can carry it in your pocket without any awkward bulges. This mask is KN95 which is a Chinese certification equivalent of N95. KN95 masks have a 95% efficiency to filter non-oily particles as small as 0.075 microns.
FEATURES
The Micro Fan is an externally placed fan which improves breath-ability and cooling. It helps remove the CO2 from the exhaled breath and can be charged 300 times.
BEST 3M N95 MASK
7. 3M Blazon BDM-8511 Best Anti Pollution Mask
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The 3M Blazon N95 mask provides 95% efficiency against non-oil based particles. The exhalation valve helps in heat dissipation. This is a disposable mask. This respirator is also suitable for protection against micro-organisms. It stops mold, bacteria causing anthrax and tuberculosis. Its braided ear loops provide a slip-proof fit. This mask is proper for wearing long hours in hot and humid conditions. Its shelf life is 5 years. This mask can be used in agricultural, building constructions, food processing, Mining, and transportation industries.
Color Options | White |
Included Components | Mounted on Ear and Head by Elastic bands, M-Noseclip |
Item Weight | 68 grams |
Material Type | Paper |
Model Number | 3M Blazon BDM-8511 |
N95 ? | Yes |
N99 ? | No |
Valve | Yes |
Washable | No |
Changeable Filter (Refill) | No |
Storage Box | Yes |
Comfort | Not very comfortable |
8. 3M N95 Mask 9004V Best Particulate Respirator
3M offers a large variety of pollution masks and this is one of the bestsellers. Easy on the pocket, you can give its masks a shot. 3M N95 masks are among the Top masks for pollution. The 3M 9004V is a disposable mask It provides good protection against dust and PM10. It is effective for medium pollution levels.
FEATURES
Color Options | White |
Included Components | Flexible Aluminium Nose clip, 2 bands |
Item Weight | 118.0 grams |
Material Type | Non woven fabric |
Model Number | 3M 9004V |
N95 ? | No |
N99 ? | No |
Protects Against | Dust, PM10 |
Layers | 3 |
Carbon Filter | No |
Valve | Yes |
Average Life | 30 hours approx |
Moisture Buildup | No |
Washable | No |
Travel Bag | No (Disposable) |
9. PUREME POLLUTION MASK WITH ACTIVATED CARBON FILTER
PureMe N95 Anti Pollution Mask is a relatively new entrant in this list. Its affordable and most users find it good. Other complain of difficulty in breathing and air leakages. You may give this one a shot too. This is a washable anti pollution mask. There are total 5 layers of fabric. However, some users complain of difficulty in breathing.
Bikers in Delhi find this mask especially comfortable. Know the BEST MASK FOR BIKERS IN INDIA
10. Vogmask N99 Air Pollution Mask
Vogmask masks were introduced in USA way back in 2011. Not only do the masks not look weird but provide great protection against pollutants as small as 0.3 micron or PM0.3 size. Vogmask brings an array of designer masks with a wide range of designs and colors. These are the best mask for pollution.
The Vogmask Head Strap is a useful thing which increases the comfort and seal. When one wears a mask for long duration, it may become uncomfortable. The Vogmask head strap is compatible with every mask from other brands too.
MASK MATERIAL
Vogmask outermost layer is printed with designs which improve the wearer’s looks as compared to hideous looks of ordinary masks. Its outermost layer is microfiber. The next inner layer is the nano-fiber N99 particle filtering media followed by the carbon filter. Its carbon filter has been derived from coconut shells and thus from organic sources. The inner most layer is a woven microfiber inner layer.
VALVE COUNT
Vogmask anti pollution masks have one valve to prevent moisture buildup. A valve also acts as an exit for carbon dioxide exhaled.
CERTIFICATIONS
Vogmask has achieved regulatory certifications from all around the world. Certifications boost trust in a product. It also means that each Vogmask is created following a strict plan and quality control standards. Vogmask is CE Certified and as it is designated as a N99 mask conforms to NIOSH efficiency standard of filters.
MASK LIFE
In Very Poor air, a Vogmask can serve you well for 3-5 months. You should follow the maintenance guidelines to prolong the mask life. Vogmask are reusable which means that the wearer can wash them and reuse them. The thing to be noted here is that the washing will help keep the outermost and innermost layers fresh. Washing will not remove the PM0.3 or PM2.5 particles which stick to the filters of the mask.
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HOW TO IDENTIFY FAKE MASKS?
The demand for best N95 masks and facepiece respirators is constantly seeing an upward trend. The Coronavirus pandemic has seen the demand spiraling. This is the perfect opportunity for shady distributors and sellers to sell fake and counterfeit masks. For the sake of your well-being you must pay heed to this aspect. A fake mask would not provide even a fraction of protection which you believe its giving.
It is for this reason I recommend masks from 3M. They give you ways to determine the genuineness of its masks. Any original 3M mask would come in proper packing and would have safety features. There may be holograms on the box and/or markings on the mask to check for them on 3M site.
Know that you may see various class of masks like – N95 (NIOSH certified in US), FFP2 (certified in Europe & Brazil), KN95 (China), BIS P2 (India) or P2 (Australia). NIOSH specifically lets you check the authenticity of the masks and companies it authorized to sell its class of masks.
HOW TO TEST FOR A GENUINE 3M MASK
- If your 3M respirators are delivered to you loose without any 3M packaging or box, there’s a problem. Genuine 3M masks come well packed with user instructions according to the model.
- 3M respirators would have stamps on it. The stamps would clearly show the type (like N95/N99). The popular 8210 mask has TC number (eg. TC-84A-0007) and Lot Number (like A1C078).
- Masks from 3M are quality products. Discard your mask or check with the seller if you find your mask has poor finish which reeks of low quality. 3M maintains high quality control standards.
- A genuine mask would not have any spelling mistakes in what is printed.
- If your mask gives out foul or strange smell, has poor quality or missing ear loops/bands, it may be a fake mask.
- The mask material would feel rigid and should fit the face well without side leakages.
3M 8210 Mask – N95
3M 8210 is one of the most widely known and worn N95 masks in the world. Its around since decades and has many distributors across nations. We’ll let you know how to test your 3M mask is genuine or fake ahead in the article.
3M 8210 PRICE CHECK
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Which Particles 3M 8210 Protects Against?
3M 8210 is an N95 respirator. This means it is proven to be effective at stopping a minimum 95% of all particles sized 0.3 microns or larger. Furthermore, N95 respirators are good at filtering not just dust particles, but many other non-oily particles. It can stop particles generated from-
- Grinding flour, coal etc.
- Sanding
- Sawing wood
- Gagging
- Processing minerals
- Pollen, etc.
Beside these particles, 3M 8210 mask can be used as a protection against biological particles. Micro-organisms like bacteria, mold can be stopped from entering the wearer’s breath. In epidemics or pandemics, N95 masks from 3M are what WHO recommends.
Is P95 Better Than N95? Read N95 Vs P95 Masks
Lets Look At 3M 8210 Closely
As you can see the 3M 8210 is cup-shaped. This is purposeful as this provides a close fit and good seal. A mask however good quality it may be, it is of no use if it does not fit the wearer well. You see many good looking masks with designs and colors printed on them. 3M masks do not have too good looks because they are a serious deal. All that glitters is not gold!
3M 8210 masks have advanced electrostatic media technology. Infact, all masks use electrostatic charging to arrest the particles. The material is light-weight and offers little breathing resistance. The straps are welded to the mask for a firm and durable hold. The straps are stretchable.
Often, the noseclip is which makes or breaks a mask. If the nose clip is not well-designed, the mask would not have a good seal. 3M 8210 has soft nose pads with a foam touching the nose. The noseclip is adjustable and molds into the shape of the nose. The noseclip is so designed that it evenly distributes their pressure points. So, there is no pinching or discomfort in wearing the mask.
HOW TO CHECK 3M MASK IS GENUINE OR FAKE
Unfortunately, many unscrupulous and shady people have started misusing the popularity of 3M masks. You can save your money by not falling for fake products and returning them in the nick of time. The first thing you should do when a 3M mask is delivered to you is to check its genuineness.
You should do a preliminary check like this-
- How was the mask delivered? If you get it loosely without any product box, chances are strong that its fake! 3M masks come in proper packaging and plastic wrapped.
- What is the first impression you get after opening the respirator? If you find the finishing of the mask is poor then check further.
- Are the straps not welded properly or in the worst case, any of them is missing?
- Wearing the mask feels smelly and uncomfortable.
- The mask material seems thin and unimpressive.
- The stamping is poorly done and has spelling mistakes. There cannot be spelling mistakes in original 3M masks.
- Incase of masks with nozzles, see from the inside of the mask. A genuine mask would have a orange color as against a yellowish hue in a fake mask. Although this is not a fool-proof way anymore. The cheaters are now making even better looking masks than the original!
If your mask fails the above checks, remind at what cost did you purchase the mask/masks. Dirt cheap masks should spark suspicion as standard masks do not come so cheap.
What To Do Next?
If you have the new packaging box, you are somewhat lucky. 3M has recently changed the packaging and introduced some safety features. There is a seal tape which changes color when the box is tilted. There’s a website from 3M under the 3M Safe Guard Program. Each box of 3M 8210 masks now have a Secure code and a Lot Code. These codes can be seen at the bottom of the box.
https://safeguard.3m.com/Guest#/Validation/
STEP ONE
Check for the Secure code and Lot no on the mask package. Enter these details in the website.
STEP TWO
Review the result and proceed accordingly. If the test passes, you can be assured of the efficiency and quality of your mask. If the mask fails the validation test, then ask your seller for a return.
Note that I had reused the Secure Code more than once, that’s why this test failed. For your new mask, it would indicate a counterfeit N95 mask.
HOW TO CHECK FOR EXPIRED 3M N95 MASKS
Like anything else that is sold, masks too have a shelf life. The mask material may degrade if unused for many years. Mostly, masks have a 5 year shelf life. 5 years when the mask is in safe storage and away from direct exposure to dust and chemicals. Here’s how to test mask expiry.
- Look at the “Lot Number” printed on the mask to know its date of manufacturing.
- For example – Lot# A15157 may be printed on your mask.
- Ignore the first alphabet (A in this example).
- The following 2 digits denote the Year of manufacturing. “15157″ in the lot number means the mask is made in 2015.
- The next 3 digits denote the day of the year (out of 365 days). “15157” means the mask is mode on 157th day of the year. This means the date is 6th June.
- So, now you know the complete date of manufacturing – 6th June 2015.
This CDC website URL is a good resource to find out fake masks and sellers.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
What Are PM10 Particles?
PM10 particles are those whose size ranges between 10 microns and 2.5 microns. Common dust, pollen and mold constitute PM10 particles. PM10 is less worrisome than PM2.5 due to larger size. You can stay safe from PM10 by keeping dust under control. Also, on roads steer clear from old vehicles which exhaust black smoke.
Which N95 Mask Is The Best?
There is no fixed answer to this. Like you can see we’ve listed some of the Best N95 masks in this post. Try to get hold of original masks from 3M, Honeywell or other brands. Our list and various posts on masks would surely help you.
Can I Wash The N95 N99 Or Other Pollution Masks?
Yes, if the pollution mask is without any carbon layer. You can surely wash your N95 or N99 mask a few times before discarding. There are also masks with changeable filters which can be replaced while the mask cover can be washed.
How To Wash A N95 Respirator Mask?
Remember ideally you should discard your face mask after wearing it for the recommended time. You may feel smell coming out of it or it may visibly look dirty. It doesn’t need education on how to identify a fresh mask from a dirty one. Still, if your mask is washable then here is the way to wash it. Washing a pollution mask 2 -3 times like this is OK. Doing it anytime more would only spoil its pollution-stopping effectiveness.
- If the mask has a replaceable filter, remove it.
- Dip the mask in warm soap water. Let it soak for a few minutes to loosen up the dirt.
- Gently rub the surface and ear loops with hands (do not use brush or any harsh chemicals to clean).
- Rinse and let the mask to dry preferably in the Sun.
How To Maintain Your N95 Mask?
You should try to store your pollution mask in its box if it came in one. Otherwise, place the mask in a dry and clean place without distorting its shape. It doesn’t harm to put the mask out in the Sun to sterilize it.
Sore Throat After Wearing Mask For Long Time
Yes, this is a possibility too. The mask stops us from pollutants from the inside. But, its inner surface is in continuous contact with our skin, sweat and breath. All this may cause contamination of the mask without proper maintenance. People tend to overuse their N95 masks and I’ve seen that myself. The mask is visibly dirty but they don’t care!
CONCLUSION – BEST N95 MASK FOR POLLUTION
I am sure you must not have read such a detailed and informative post elsewhere? This post on the Best N99 pollution masks in India has been prepared with much effort. The pollution in Delhi NCR often reaches horrible levels of AQI in November or December months. You can save yourself from a guaranteed heath catastrophe by using a good N99 pollution mask.
Pollution masks are an ample defense against Coronavirus too. Allergens and pollen grains can be kept at bay when you venture out. So, you can avoid those incessant sneezes and watery eyes if you use a mask wisely. Be social and share it on social media if you found it worthy and helpful. 🙂
DUE TO UNEXPECTED SURGE IN MASKS DEMAND, MANY POPULAR MASKS MAY BE OUT OF STOCK.
BEST MASK FOR CORONAVIRUS, is a requirement for preventing your respiratory track from not just this virus but pathogens in general. This disease has proven to be a major upheaval in everyone’s life. Scientists say that the virus is airborne which makes it more contagious.
The worldwide Coronavirus infection count is climbing fast and stood at 306,122,920 today. The 3rd wave has already started with the Omicron variant hitting India now. This is again because of the fear of Coronavirus had subsided and the virus mutating as usual. You should not take chances against a disease which has already claimed 5,502,890 lives worldwide.
ashish says
Add PureMe Reusable Mask in the list. It is now besting selling N95 pollution mask in Flipkart