These KN95 masks are in stock—and on sale—at Amazon
Yahoo Life is committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. We may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Pricing and availability are subject to change.
By now you’ve probably heard that N95 masks are the most effective face masks you can buy—but they should still be reserved for frontline medical personnel. Their cousins, KN95 masks, are readily available to purchase, however. And these Wenime KN95 masks are on sale for $31 (pack of 10), down from the original price of $33.
The mask’s six layers include an activated carbon filter to improve filtration, a moisture-wicking layer to keep you cool and a dual-engine filter. The one-way breathing valve helps with exhaling and minimizes moisture buildup. The masks also have an adjustable V-shaped clip for a custom and comfortable fit. Plush-like, they feel soft against your skin, and the contoured shape is designed to cause less pressure than other masks on the market, according to the company.
Shop it: Wenime KN95 Masks, 10-Pack, $31 (was $33), amazon.com
The biggest difference between N95 and KN95 masks are the authorizers. N95 masks are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) while KN95s are cleared by Chinese regulators.
“The basic difference is regulatory,” says Dr. Kavita Patel, managing director of clinical transformation at The Brookings Institution’s Engelberg Center for Health Care Reform. “KN95 masks are approved by Chinese regulators, and in theory they are similar to N95 masks, which are approved by the FDA but also likely to be manufactured in China. This means they keep out 95 percent of particles, which is essentially the highest filtration you can get.”
High-quality KN95 masks can prevent the spread of coronavirus as effectively as N95 masks. However, the FDA has removed its emergency use authorization for KN95 mask manufacturers after they were unable to filter out up to 95 percent of particles. Some are still authorized for use, and while it’s unclear if the Wenime KN95 masks fit within the FDA emergency use guidelines, they have six layers of protection and claim to effectively separate fine particles.
Of course, these masks should be used in conjunction with other COVID-19 prevention best practices, like social distancing, washing and sanitizing your hands, and staying at least six feet apart from others.
Shop it: Wenime KN95 Masks, 10-Pack, $31 (was $33), amazon.com
Want to weigh your options? We found other top-rated KN95 masks on Amazon:
SupplyAID KN95 Masks, 5-Pack
We scoured Amazon for reliable KN95 masks and found these Amazon’s Choice versions. They’re three-dimensional, thick, durable and you get five for just $18. Plus, over 3,300 reviewers depend on them to stay safe.
A reviewer who bought several types of KN95 masks on Amazon is pleased with the quality. “They seem pretty reliable and good quality compared to another brand I had bought,” says the shopper. “Much better than cloth masks and doctor masks I'm sure.”
Shop it: SupplyAID KN95 Masks, Pack of 5, $18, amazon.com
Feradyne KN95 Masks, 10-Pack
Made from five layers, including filtering polypropylene meltblown cloth and a skin-friendly non-woven fabric, these Amazon’s Choice masks have you covered—and they’re on sale.
“Skip the others—this is your product,” writes a five-star reviewer. “As far as masks are concerned, these have been the best investment thus far. As long as you follow the directions, they’re primo. I was worried I wouldn’t be able to breathe properly, but I’m happy to report that I can breathe just fine since I can adjust the nasal strip while still covering my entire nose and mouth area. I will be purchasing more.”
Shop it: Feradyne KN95 Masks, 10-Pack, $29 (was $31), amazon.com
COVAFLU KN95 Masks, 10-Pack
With a soft and flexible four-ply polypropelyne fabric, these disposable masks are a #1 new release at Amazon and already have a 4.4-star rating from over 900 reviewers.
“Comfortable, reduces fogging in glasses, individually wrapped,” writes a satisfied shopper. “I bought these due to the reported similar standard to N95s. Overall, better than most products on the market.”
Shop it: COVAFLU KN95 Masks, 10-Pack, $35, amazon.com
Purism KN95 Masks, 20-Pack
The most affordable KN95 masks on Amazon, these three-ply versions ring in at under $2 a pop.
Shop it: Purism KN95 Masks, 20-Pack, $38 with on-page coupon (was $40), amazon.com
The Unknown Store KN95 Face Mask, Pack of 5
Featuring five layers of protection and a near-perfect rating, these masks are a safe bet.
“I have lots of different mask types. This one is a good size, easy to breathe, comfortable fit,” writes a five-star reviewer. “My new favorite mask. I have to wear it on construction sites so breathability and comfort weigh in heavy on my review. Thicker than the blue surgical [masks] but not as thick as my old N95 from 3M that I can't get any longer.”
Shop it: The Unknown Store KN95 Face Mask, Pack of 5, $15, amazon.com
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
Read More from Yahoo Lifestyle:
Over 50? Here's how to boost your immunity and keep viruses away
Amazon's No. 1 bestselling hand sanitizer — Suave hand spray — is finally back in stock
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day
Want daily pop culture news delivered to your inbox? Sign up here for Yahoo Entertainment & Lifestyle's newsletter.
