N95, KN95, KF94: The best masks to help avoid COVID-19 now

As a result of the  variant’s startling spread, face masks have made a comeback, including local and federal . This variant is even , which was already twice as contagious as earlier COVID-19 strains. 

Before discussing masks, it’s important to underline that the best way to protect yourself against severe COVID-19 disease is to , including getting your as soon as you’re eligible. The omicron variant may be more successful at evading vaccine protection and causing , but vaccines are still highly effective at . 

Experts agree that wearing a face mask is an effective way to slow the spread of COVID-19 infection by way of virus particles, regardless of your vaccination status. And because the omicron variant is so contagious, many experts have cautioned that cloth masks don’t cut it anymore. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Jan. 14, clarifying that “loosely woven cloth products provide the least protection.” Surgical masks and KN95s provide more protection, while approved and well-fitting respirators such as N95s provide the most protection, the CDC says.

We talked to two infectious disease specialists to determine the best face mask and face covering to protect yourself against the coronavirus in 2022, given the rapidly changing landscape. Their advice is below, followed by some updated recommendations based on their expertise.

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Disposable N95, KN95, KF94 masks vs. cloth masks

According to the CDC’s updated guidance, a well-fitting respirator that is approved by the the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health offers the “highest level of protection” out of any face covering. These include N95 respirators, a disposable face covering that filters out at least 95% of airborne particles. 

“An N95 is the best, if you can get it,” said Dr. Bob Lahita, director of the Institute for Autoimmune and Rheumatic Disease at St. Joseph Health and author of . The CDC recommends  for health care personnel.

One popular alternative to the N95 is the KN95 respirator, which is the Chinese equivalent of the US standard. KN95s are made from the same material as N95s and are also designed to filter at least 95% of airborne particles. Another alternative is the KF94, the South Korean equivalent to an N95, which has a slightly different shape and 94% filtration efficacy. (Neither KN95s are KF94s are NIOSH-approved.)

“I would recommend a high-quality KF94 or KN95 for high-risk situations,” said Dr. Bob Bollinger, professor of infectious diseases at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and founder of .

Whether you’re wearing an , it won’t be effective unless the face mask fits your face properly and you can wear it consistently, the CDC says. “Make sure it fits snugly, without gaps around your nose, face and mouth,” Bollinger said. This is why these masks typically have an adjustable nose wire for a better fit.

Then there are surgical-style masks — the disposable kind of protective mask that you can find in every convenience store these days. These surgical mask-style coverings offer less protection than respirators, leading some  amid the highly contagious omicron variant. According to the CDC, a respirator such as an N95 “has better filtration, and if worn properly the whole time it is in use, can provide a higher level of protection than a cloth or procedural mask.”

That said, a well-fitting surgical mask is still effective at filtering respiratory droplets, and it’s useful in lower-risk situations or when it’s all you can find. Look for a mask with at least three layers of material and a snug fit around the mouth, nose and face. Further, if the elastic ear loops aren’t tight enough, try tying a knot or twisting the loop to make the fit tighter.

Whatever you do, don’t rely on a fabric mask alone any more. They’re good at protecting others from your respiratory droplets, but not at protecting you against theirs, even with a filter pocket. “I would say people should choose disposable masks, not cloth,” Lahita said. “A cloth face mask is better than no mask if you don’t have access to the disposable ones. It helps protect others if you sneeze or cough — but it’s less effective than the disposable version or the N95 face mask, especially because many people don’t wash their cloth masks often.”

Another way to maximize protection is to double mask with a combination of cloth, surgical masks and respirators. If you can’t find an N95, KN95 or KF94, Bollinger said, “a good-quality disposable mask under a cloth mask is a reasonable alternative, as long as the fit on the face, nose and mouth is tight.” You can also put an N95, KN95 or KF94 under a regular disposable mask for a tighter seal.

Different masks for different tasks

Different types of face masks offer varying amounts of protection. But not everyone needs the exact same level of protection, and specific situations may call for more or less caution. 

In the context of the omicron surge, for example, there’s a higher risk of transmission, so it’s a good idea to upgrade your face covering accordingly. That means wearing a well-fitting N95, KN95 or KF94 if you can, or double masking. 

The CDC says that “a respirator may be considered in certain situations and by certain people when greater protection is needed or desired.” Some of the situations that call for a respirator include: 

• Crowded indoor or outdoor public settings

• Workplaces that involve interacting with the public
• Caring for someone who has COVID-19
• If you’re not up to date on your COVID vaccinations (including boosters)
• If you’re immunocompromised or have underlying medical conditions

Opting for higher protection is also a good idea whenever you’re in a riskier public setting, like traveling on public transportation or visiting a health care facility, no matter your health status. “Certainly, if you’re in a nursing home or a hospital, you must wear an N95,” Lahita said. “If you’re in a classroom with kids, the teacher should be wearing an N95.”

If you’re up to date on your shots, low-risk and in a region with less transmission, a well-fitting surgical mask is fine for regular, daily use. And when you’re outdoors, masking is less necessary, Lahita said. That’s unless you’re in a crowded area, or will be in close contact with unvaccinated people.

How to avoid counterfeit face masks

In the US, N95s by NIOSH, as well as by the US Food and Drug Administration in order to qualify for medical use. 

Because the KN95 and KF94 aren’t regulated by US authorities, it’s a bit trickier to know you’re getting the real deal, and counterfeit masks have proliferated throughout the pandemic. The FDA approved under an Emergency Use Authorization in 2020, and while that authorization has expired, the list of FDA-approved face mask manufacturers is still a helpful resource. The CDC also of non-NIOSH-approved masks that have gone through filtration testing. 

When it comes to KF94s, your best bet is to buy from a manufacturer in South Korea, which has its own strict testing associated with the KF94 label.

Another important note: Ignore the term “FDA registered” when shopping for masks. As the , facilities “involved in the production and distribution of medical devices intended for use in the United States are generally required to register annually with the FDA.” But, importantly, the “FDA’s registration and listing database does not denote approval, clearance or authorization of that facility or its medical devices.”

Our current best face mask suggestions

Below, is a list of N95, KN95, KF94, surgical-style and cloth masks (which, again, are recommended when doubling up). While CNET hasn’t expressly “tested” most of these masks, they conform to the expert mask recommendations above.

Bear in mind that prices and availability change often because of supply and demand for masks. We do our best to ensure our information is up-to-date, but the prices at the retailers below may differ.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.