Though many of us have acquired a drawer-full of reusable woven-cloth face masks over the last couple of years, the CDC says that the efficacy of those masks is still “under debate.” While cotton masks can provide “reasonable” protection, they say, woven fabrics have tiny holes that potentially allow for more particle transmission than non-woven materials do. 

If you’re looking for maximum protection, here are some popular multi-layer disposable masks made of non-woven materials that have received positive reviews for comfort, durability, and even eco-friendliness. 

How Do I Know Which Masks Are Best?

When shopping for masks, make sure you read the labels. As new information becomes available, the CDC updates its recommendations. It recently released new standards for appropriate workplace masks. Masks labeled “ASTM F3502,” “Workplace Performance,” or “Workplace Performance Plus” will meet those requirements, specifically that the mask is made of multiple layers of non-woven material and meets the latest professional standards.

Also, make sure that whatever mask you buy fits you as well as possible while still being comfortable. The mask should cover both your nose and mouth at all times, and the edges should fit as closely to your skin as possible to keep foreign droplets out, and yours contained. 

Some Face Mask Options – Different Strokes for Different Folks

Demetech 3-Layer Face Mask – This U.S.-made mask meets ASTM Level 3 standards and offers 98% particle filtration. 

Kimberly-Clark Professional N95 Pouch Respirator – Noted by reviewers for its comfort and breathability, this mask has a head-wrapping strap instead of ear loops, and is approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. 

ZVerse Aries Work Week Mask – This mask has an adjustable nose piece to optimize fit, and is designed to be worn for up to five days or 40 hours per week before disposal, making it more eco-friendly than most other disposable masks. 

Ecoguard 4-Ply Face Masks – The Ecoguard mask is ASTM Level 3 compliant. It has four layers of non-woven material and latex-free ear loops that are snap-resistant. It comes in only one color: black. 

3M Aura Particulate Respirator N95 – The Aura has a three-panel design that accommodates facial movements while minimizing eyeglass fog.  

Armbrust USA The Better Mask High Filtration System – A mask brace holds your mask in place, helping it fit securely, especially if it’s oversized. This mask provides 98% filtration of small particles.

WeCare Individually Wrapped 3-Ply Face Masks -These triple-layered masks are sterile and comfortable. One Amazon reviewer wrote that the mask is “non-irritating” and that even after many hours of wear, “the inside didn’t fray” or tear. 

NIOSH N95 Foldable Mask – This CDC-approved mask is foldable for convenient storage and has a cup-style fit for breathability and head and neck loops instead of earloops for added comfort.

ApePal Pink 3-ply Disposable Face Masks – Made of three layers of non-woven material, this inexpensive, lightweight pink mask has been called “breathable” and “durable” and did not fog up the reviewer’s eyeglasses.  

EvolveTogether Amazonia Face Masks – These masks are produced in an FDA-registered PPE factory and are shipped in 100% plant-based, biodegradable packaging. To reduce its footprint, the company donates 10% of each sale to One Tree Planted, a nonprofit that supports global reforestation efforts.

The CDC recommends that you continue to wear a mask indoors in public or if you are in an outdoor area that carries a high risk of transmission.

Much about the novel coronavirus, i.e., COVID-19, is still not fully understood. As research progresses and our knowledge of the virus increases, information can change rapidly. We strive to update all of our articles as quickly as possible, but there may occasionally be some lag between scientific developments and our revisions. 

*Prevention. (2021, Dec. 15). The 10 Best Disposable Face Masks to Help Protect Against COVID-19 and the Omicron Variant.    https://www.prevention.com/health/g38462007/best-disposable-face-masks/