Types of Masks
There are different types of masks that serve different purposes. When you breathe, especially through your mouth, everything in the air goes straight to your lungs. Choose the most protective mask that you can wear comfortably. It should completely cover your nose and mouth while fitting tightly to your face. To reduce the spread of illness, and for emergencies and disasters, N95 masks offer the best protection when worn correctly.
N95 Masks
- Offer the best protection.
- N95 respirators (often called N95 masks) filter out fine particles.
- When worn correctly, it offers protection from respiratory infections, wildfire smoke, mold and other respiratory hazards.
- Should fit snuggly against your face with no gaps. For this reason, they do not properly fit children or adults with facial hair.
- N95 size small may fit older children. There are no child-size approved N95 masks available.
- Do not protect against chemical vapors or gases.
- Are available for purchase at most major retailers and pharmacies.
KN95 Masks
- Both KN95 and KN94 respirators (often called masks) meet international standards.
- Provide good protection, but less protection than N95.
- Most have ear loops, which may provide a less snug fit than head straps used with N95s.
- Are not approved by NIOSH to be used in workplaces where respirators are required.
- Available in ‘child’ and ‘extra-small’ sizes.
Disposable Face Masks
- May block droplets and offer some protection to those around you if you are sick.
- It is difficult to know how much protection these masks provide because there are no standards or regulations for disposable masks.
- Do not provide protection from particles that result from a disaster, such as a wildfire.
Cloth Masks
- May block droplets and offer some protection to those around you if you are sick.
- It is difficult to know how much protection cloth masks provide because they are not regulated.
- Cloth masks, like disposable masks, do not provide protection from particles that result from a disaster such as wildfire smoke.
When should I wear a mask?
Who Should NOT Wear a Mask?
Some people with lung disease or breathing issues may have a hard time breathing through a mask. Individuals with sensory, cognitive or behavioral issues may find wearing a mask difficult. People who are hard of hearing may struggle when others wear a mask because they aren’t able to read lips. In these instances, it is recommended to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
Masks are not recommended for:
- Children under two years of age
- People who are unconscious or unable to remove the mask themselves
Page last updated: May 7, 2025
