N95 Face masks made in the USA were a rare gem during the first quarter of 2020. They got sold out within minutes and were not available in any stores. However, compared to how difficult they were to obtain back then, they're now readily available in stores and online.
The CDC recommends everyone wear a mask - whether it's an N95, KN95, or a cloth mask. But as the N95 is an approved mask with the capability of filtering out the Covid-19 virus, it's still a relatively rare and expensive commodity. This post will list down the places where you can buy these masks.
What's So Special About N95 Face Masks made in the USA?
N95 is so sought-after and recommended for the ones on the front line because it's very effective at filtering particles.
According to a study, it can filter out 95% of particles that are 0.3 microns in size.
This not only means that it'll keep bigger particles like dust at bay but also prevent droplets from coughs and sneezes from entering you.
Even though the Covid-19 virus is much smaller than 0.3 microns, it's not airborne on its own. The virus is usually stuck to aerosols or water droplets in the air. This means that it's much bigger in actuality and can easily get trapped within the fibers of the N95 mask.
Moreover, this mask is the most tight-fitting mask out there. It doesn't leave any gaps and has a snug fit, blocking any air from entering or escaping from the sides. This is also why it's approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
Places You Can Buy N95 Face Masks made in the USA
Initially, only the front liners were able to wear N95 masks for maximum protection. Now, however, they are available for the general public. They're still relatively costly, but senior citizens and workers exposed to large crowds should use them.
Here are a few places where you can purchase N95 masks:
First Aid Survival
One easy way to get N95 masks is to order them from a reliable online store. The masks from First Aid Survival have NIOSH approval and are one of the few in the CDC's list of N95 Particulate Filtering Facepiece respirators. Hence, you can rest assured you're getting what you're paying for.
These masks have the signature tight-fit that all N95 masks should have and have latex-free elastic straps. For quick and free shipping within two days, First Aid Survival is one of the most reliable online stores to purchase N95 masks.
Pharmacies
If you want to buy and use an N95 mask instantly, your best bet is to check with your local pharmacy. They sell out fast, but there's a good chance you might get your hands on a few pairs.
Home Depot
Most Home Depot outlets across the US have all sorts of masks available, including approved N95 masks.
Finder.com
The KN95 is second best at filtering out aerosols, although they don't have approval from the FDA and aren't as effective. Currently, Nomad Goods offers low priced KN95's with fast shipping. These masks have four layers of filtration, an adjustable nose bridge, and a tight-fitting form.
No matter what mask you choose, make sure you don't expose yourself to people without wearing one.
