N95 Masks and Respirators

N95 surgical respirator masks provide top-of-the-line protection against contaminants and germs. They're ideal for health-care workers, frontline workers, and anyone looking for highly-efficient protection. If you and your team need face masks with high filtration efficiency, it's time to switch to N95 respirators. 

What Is the N95 Mask?

The N95 filtering facepiece respirator (FFR) is a disposable respirator where the filtration media is also the respirator. The term N95 actually refers to a designation created by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (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 for effective disease control and respiratory protection.

You may also see KN95 masks, which have comparable protective qualities but have a different certification process and are not approved for use in healthcare settings in the US.

Why Choose an N95 over a Surgical Mask?

N95 respirators offer far more protection than cloth masks or other types of disposable face masks.

A disposable surgical face mask is simply a protective barrier that prevents you from inhaling or exhaling germs, but it's simply a baseline. It does not provide an efficient filter.

An N95 face mask is made of tightly woven synthetic polymers designed to add extra protection against contaminants. And unlike typical surgical masks, N95 masks offer a tight fit necessary to protect against airborne particles. 

The Protection of NIOSH-Approved N95 Respirator Masks

The N95's adjustable nose clip, soft shell, multiple nonwoven layers, and lightweight construction delivers 95% filtration efficiency thus the 95 in its name.

Each mask has five layers of non-irritating, nontoxic, moisture-resistant fabric, giving you a protective outer layer and multiple inner layers for maximum filtration, no matter what environment you work in.

The N95 is best known as protection for frontline healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, but it can also provide effective protection for workers exposed to the following:

• Asbestos
• Paint fumes
• Harsh chemicals

KN95 respirators are a good choice for nonmedical workers. They provide almost the same protection as an N95 respirator but are not specialized for a medical setting.

Purchasing a NIOSH-Certified N95 You Can Trust

WellBefore offers a huge variety of NIOSH-approved N95 face mask options, including the following:

• 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

If you're figuring out where to buy an N95 mask online, you're in the right place. Essential workers across the country rely on WellBefore when they need N95 respirator options they can count on during their busiest work days. Consider a bulk order to keep masks on hand and the entire team safe.

Why Source Your N95 Masks from WellBefore?

At WellBefore, we provide a wide range of NIOSH-approved, FDA-cleared original N95 face masks in stock, including adjustable N95 masks for extra comfort. Each mask is individually wrapped to maintain safety and sterility.

We understand the importance of protecting your people and your community. WellBefore is a family-owned, US-based online supplier of personal protective equipment to the general public. We have multiple brands and products that are aimed at taking care of your individual needs.

We offer bulk discounts and special pricing for hospitals, schools, and other critical frontline workers. WellBefore is proud to provide discounted rates to police, military, healthcare, and frontline personnel.

Our masks are sourced from reliable suppliers that uphold rigorous testing and manufacturing standards. Contact us at support@wellbefore.com for certification and documentation relevant to our top-of-the-line, NIOSH-certified, FDA-approved N95 respirators. We align our product availability and guidance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations on respiratory protection.

Keep you, your family, and team safe with NIOSH-approved N95 respirators you can trust. WellBefore is here to help you stay protected every step of the way. Choosing the right mask is a crucial part of workplace and personal safety—one we take seriously.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between N95 and KN95 masks?

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

Are N95s washable?

No, they're not washable. Never wash or sanitize your N95 respirator with water and soap, bleach, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and other chemicals. Getting your mask wet can degrade its protective materials, rendering it ineffective.

What are N95 Masks made of?

N95 respirators are made of multiple layers of synthetic plastic fibers like nonwoven polypropylene. The elastic bands can be made of rubber or latex, while the staples and nose bar are made of metal. Some N95s have valves to reduce exhalation resistance, making it easier to breathe.

Are N95 masks hard to breathe in?

Yes, wearing an N95 respirator can make it harder to breathe. This is because it needs to form a seal for a secure fit and proper protection. Consult your healthcare provider about wearing an N95 if you have heart or lung problems.