# N95 Masks and Respirators

## NIOSH Approved N95 Masks and Respirators

N95 surgical respirator masks provide top-of-the-line protection against contaminants and germs. They're ideal for healthcare workers, frontline workers, and anyone looking for highly efficient respiratory protection.

## What Is the N95 Mask?

The [N95 filtering facepiece respirator (FFR)](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/personal-protective-equipment-infection-control/n95-respirators-surgical-masks-face-masks-and-barrier-face-coverings#:~:text=N95%20respirators%20and%20surgical%20masks,NIOSH)%20also%20regulates%20N95%20respirators.) is a disposable respirator where the filtration media is also the respirator. The term N95 refers to a designation created by NIOSH and approved by the FDA.

To earn the N95 designation, a respirator must filter out at least 95% of non-sticky airborne particles greater than 0.3 microns. N95 must filter out most airborne water droplets, bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants.

You may also see [KN95 masks](https://wellbefore.com/collections/kn95-masks), which have comparable protective qualities but a different certification process and are not approved for healthcare settings in the US.

## The Protection of NIOSH-Approved N95 Respirator Masks

The N95's adjustable nose clip, soft shell, multiple nonwoven layers, and lightweight construction deliver 95% filtration efficiency. Each mask has five layers of non-irritating, nontoxic, moisture-resistant fabric.

The N95 provides effective protection for workers exposed to:
- Asbestos
- Paint fumes
- Harsh chemicals

KN95 respirators are a good choice for nonmedical workers. Pair N95 respirators with [face shields](https://wellbefore.com/products/mckesson-face-shield?pds=search-page), [protective gloves](https://wellbefore.com/collections/gloves-gowns), and [isolation gowns](https://wellbefore.com/products/cardinal-health-impervious-plastic-gown-with-thumbhooks-universal-size-blue?pds=search-page) for comprehensive PPE protection.

## Why Choose an N95 over a Surgical Mask?

N95 respirators offer [far more protection](https://blogs.cdc.gov/niosh-science-blog/2009/10/14/n95/) than cloth masks or other [disposable face masks](https://wellbefore.com/collections/masks). A disposable surgical face mask is a protective barrier but does not provide an efficient filter. N95 masks are made of tightly woven synthetic polymers and offer a tight fit necessary to protect against airborne particles.

## Where to Buy N95 Masks Online?

WellBefore offers NIOSH-approved N95 masks that are FDA-cleared and sourced from reliable manufacturers. Orders ship within 24-48 hours.

### Why Buy N95 Masks from WellBefore?

WellBefore offers a wide selection of NIOSH-approved N95 face mask options, including:
- N95 face masks tested and approved for medical use
- N99 masks with up to 99% filtration efficiency
- A variety of styles, including ear loops and head loops
- [Adjustable N95 masks](https://wellbefore.com/products/kn95-mask-3d-style?variant=39257716949121) for extra comfort

WellBefore is a family-owned, US-based supplier of personal protective equipment. Each mask is individually wrapped. Complete your PPE kit with [hand sanitizer](https://wellbefore.com/collections/sanitizers), disinfecting wipes, and other protective masks.

Bulk discounts and special pricing are available for hospitals, schools, and frontline workers. Contact [support@wellbefore.com](mailto:support@wellbefore.com) for documentation on N95 masks made in USA or other certifications.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What's the difference between N95 and KN95 masks?

N95 respirators are certified for healthcare use in the United States, while KN95 ones are not. Both capture 95% of tiny 0.3-micron particles and are made of multiple layers of nonwoven polymer fibers.

### Are N95s washable?

No. Never wash or sanitize your N95 respirator with water, soap, bleach, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or other chemicals. Getting the mask wet can degrade its protective materials.

### What are N95 Masks made of?

N95 respirators are made of multiple layers of synthetic plastic fibers, like nonwoven polypropylene. Elastic bands can be made of rubber or latex; staples and nose bar are metal. Some N95s have valves to reduce exhalation resistance.

### Are N95 masks hard to breathe in?

Yes, wearing an N95 respirator can make it harder to breathe because it needs to form a seal. Consult your healthcare provider if you have heart or lung problems.

### When is an N95 mask required?

An N95 mask is required in healthcare settings for airborne infectious diseases and aerosol-generating procedures. Some industrial workplaces also require N95 respirators for protection against hazardous dusts, fumes, or chemicals.

### What's the most comfortable N95 mask for travel?

For travel, the most comfortable N95 mask has adjustable ear loops and a cushioned nose bridge. Individually wrapped N95 masks are convenient and hygienic for packing.

## Products in this collection

- [N95 Respirator | NIOSH Approved](/products/n95-cup-mask)
- [N99 Respirator | NIOSH Approved](/products/wellbefore-n99-respirator-mask-niosh-approved)
- [Harley L-188 N95 Folding Mask - NIOSH Approved](/products/harley-n95-niosh-l-188-folding-mask)
- [RespoKare N95 Surgical Respirator Mask With Antimicrobial/Antiviral Agent - FDA Cleared NIOSH Approved](/products/respokare-n95-respirator-surgical-mask-fda-niosh-approved)
- [Makrite SEKURA N95 - NIOSH Approved](/products/makrite-n95-sekura-niosh)
- [Makrite 9600 N95 - NIOSH Approved - Respirator Face Mask](/products/makrite-n95-9600-niosh)
- [Halyard 46727 N95 Surgical Mask - FDA Cleared NIOSH Approved](/products/halyard-46727-niosh-fda-approved-n95-mask)
- [Harley S-108 N95 Surgical Mask - NIOSH Approved](/products/harley-s-108-n95-surgical-mask-niosh-approved)
- [Harley L-108 N95 Folding Respirator - NIOSH Approved](/products/harley-l-108-n95-folding-respirator-niosh-approved)
- [Moldex 1513 N95 Respirator Surgical Mask - FDA Cleared NIOSH Approved](/products/moldex-1513-n95-respirator-surgical-mask-fda-niosh-approved)
- [Harley S-188N N95 Surgical Mask - NIOSH Approved](/products/harley-s-188n-n95-surgical-mask-niosh-approved)
- [Moldex 1511 N95 Respirator Surgical Mask - FDA Cleared NIOSH Approved](/products/moldex-1511-n95-respirator-surgical-mask-fda-niosh-approved)
- [Moldex 1512 N95 Respirator Surgical Mask - FDA Cleared NIOSH Approved](/products/moldex-1512-n95-respirator-surgical-mask-fda-niosh-approved)
- [Moldex 1517 N95 Respirator Surgical Mask - FDA Cleared NIOSH Approved](/products/moldex-1517-n95-respirator-surgical-mask-fda-niosh-approved)
- [N95 Flat Fold Respirator Mask | NIOSH Approved](/products/n95-mask)