By Joal Ryan, carolin lehmann
CBS Essentials is created independently from the CBS News staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.
Nearly two years into the COVID-19 pandemic , rising cases and recent headlines, such as the Biden administration's plan to distribute 400 million free N95s to Americans, have put renewed focus on masks – and perhaps raised as many questions as ever. What masks are best to help slow the spread of the Omicron variant ? Does it matter if you wear a KN95 instead of an N95 ? Can your cloth mask still be trusted to keep you safe?
To help you sort through your options, especially in the wake of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's updated mask guidance , we've put together a mask-by-mask explainer. What's the difference between the N95, the KN95, the surgical mask and the cloth mask? Read on. And no matter what mask you opt for, make sure it's a tight-fitting one!
Not all masks are N95s. The N95 is a respirator mask that's been tested in the United States for effectiveness. It filters the air you breathe in, rather than, as with a common mask, merely catching droplets of what you breathe out. In order to be certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), an N95 must filter at least 95% of particles greater than 0.3 microns in size.
Please note: If you run across an N95 mask that does not bear the initials of the NIOSH, then beware: It's not a genuine N95; it's a counterfeit. For more information on face mask fakes, read our guide to spotting counterfeit N95 masks .
Early in the pandemic, and for a long time after, you probably heard federal officials discourage the wearing and purchasing of N95s . That was because the government believed well-fitted and readily available cloth masks would do the trick for the average American – and, at the same time, preserve the nation's N95 stock for the medical professional. But that was then, this is now: As noted, at the direction of the White House, 400 million N95s will soon be available for average Americans to pick up – for free – at pharmacies and health centers; the nationwide effort will begin to roll out next week. Supplies of free N95 masks will likely be limited, though there's no shortage of N95 masks available for sale, some of which we've shared below.
At the same time, the CDC's mask guidelines now note that the surgical N95, a subcategory of the N95, is the respirator that should be reserved for workers in medicine and healthcare. As for non-surgical N95s, like the ones that'll soon be shipped by the feds to a CVS or Walgreens near you? Go for it, the CDC says: Among all the masks on the market, per the agency, N95s and other NIOSH-certified respirators "offer the highest level of protection."
If you don't want to wait for the free N95s, or you just want to have extras on hand, here are some highly rated N95s we found available for purchase today.
If you're willing to purchase 50 masks, these, from Kimberly-Clark, have a large breathing chamber for comfort and soft but strong headbands. Note, however, that these N95 face masks may not ship immediately -- at last look, Amazon notes these masks can be delivered in as few as two days.
Kimberly-Clark professional N95 pouch respirator (50 pack), $57
These 3M masks prevent eyewear fogging and have a foam cushion for maximum comfort on your nose.
These disposable N95 masks by 3M feature an adjustable nose clip, chin tab and a low-profile design that directs air away from the nose panel to reduce eyewear fogging.
3M Aura N95 respirator (10 pack), $21
Home Depot has several N95 face mask options, including this 10-pack. These N95s have an adjustable nose clip and head strap.
HDX N95 respirator mask, size M/L (10 pack), $19
Like the N95, the KN95 is a respirator mask. Unlike the N95, the KN95 is not vetted by the NIOSH or any other U.S. agency. (And, if while shopping for masks, you happen to see a KN95 with NIOSH markings? Skip it. It's another counterfeit.)
KN95 is an international designation, and while the CDC says filtration standards vary, the agency considers the KN95 the next-best masking option to the N95, so long as the mask is genuine. Genuine KN95 will filter at least 95% of particles, just as N95s do. But KN95 masks are more frequently counterfeited -- the CDC estimates that roughly 60% of KN95 masks are fakes.
For parents, the KN95 may be the best option for the youngest members of the family. That's because some KN95s are available in sizes suitable for children – and no genuine N95s are.
Like KN95, KF94 is an international designation. As the number suggests, genuine KF94 masks will filter at least 94% of particles.
Here are recommendations for KF94 and KN95 face masks you can purchase or check stock on today:
These masks, with four layers, come individually packaged, are made of an eco-friendly material, and claim to meet Korea's KF94 standard (94% filtration efficiency). Reviewers recommend this size for older children.
Happy Life kids KF94 (20 pack), $31
These individually wrapped face masks are only $1.49 each, or $1.19 each with a regular shipment subscription. They're made of five layers (for kids for ages 5 to 12), or four layers (for ages 2 to 4). Their earloops are adjustable, and they have a moisture-wicking inner layer. Find them in three sizes for kids.
This multi-layer, breathable KN95 mask can be purchased in a 10 pack (or more).
Powecom kids KN95-SM respirator mask (10 pack), $13
When we talk about surgical masks in terms of COVID protection, we're talking about what the CDC calls disposable procedure masks. They loop around your ears, they feature multiple layers of non-woven material and they each feature a wire that you can bend and shape at the ridge of your nose for a tight fit. And, yes, they're disposable – or, rather, you should be disposing of them regularly. Surgical masks that get wet or dirty should not be worn, the CDC advises.
In terms of effectiveness in preventing the spread of COVID, the CDC puts surgical masks on the same level as KN95s – the agency says both offer more protection than cloth masks, but less protection than N95s.
Here's a rundown of highly rated disposable procedure or surgical masks that we found in stock and available via Amazon:
These three-layer masks feature the standard ear loop design, non-woven, layered material and all-important nose wire. They're available in that hospital shade of blue that we've become so familiar with over the past two years.
HDFK disposable earloop face mask (50 Pack), $14 (reduced from $19)
Tired of that familiar hospital shade of blue? These four-layered disposable masks from Biwisy come with all the safeguards you need, plus all the variety you crave. Available in black, gray and, yup, blue. Prices vary.
Biwisy 50 Pcs Disposable Face Masks Comfortable Mask 4-Layer Grey Masks, $14 (reduced from $18)
Don't run out of masks again. Get 100 three-ply disposable masks in fashionable black.
Black disposable 3-ply face masks (100 pack), $12
A cloth mask is the least defined of the masks covered here. Some cloth masks feature multiple layers (good!), a pocket for disposable N95 filters (good!) and nose wires (good!). Some consist of nothing but a thin, single layer of fabric that'll keep you on the right side of, say, travel requirements, but won't do much else. "Loosely woven cloth products provide the least protection…," the CDC says.
Still, a cloth mask is better than no mask at all. For a more effective cloth mask, the CDC suggests pairing it with a disposable mask. The cloth mask should be worn as the top (or, outside) layer.
Here are some cloth face masks that you can buy (and pair with your disposable mask!) today:
Pick up these face masks from Madewell, currently on deep discount at Nordstrom. These cotton masks feature three-layer construction with a filter and adjustable ear loops. They're also available in another color and print combination.
Madewell assorted adjustable adult face masks (3 pack), $9.90 (reduced from $24)
These dual-layer pastel masks from Caraa come in a cheery confetti print. They're washable, have a nose wire and can be used with a filter. There are other prints available too.
Caraa printed universal adult masks (4 pack), $25
These sweat-wicking masks from Lululemon, available in nine colorways, are a comfortable-to-wear choice for working out. While this mask is designed for exercise, note that it is not a medical-grade mask and is not ideal for day-to-day use.
Lululemon ear loop face mask (3 pack), $38
These washable, double-layer masks from Nordstrom, made out of jersey cotton, feature a tie dye print and a built-in cotton filter pocket. Adjustable ear loops with sliding straps help secure it in place on your face.
The four pack of masks is currently 76% off -- that's less than $1.50 per mask. For each package of masks purchased, Nordstrom will donate a mask to "help protect kids and families in our communities."
Assorted adult face masks (4 pack), $5.90 (reduced from $25)
These Herschel masks, available in eight colors and prints, currently have a buy one, get one free discount. They're made with three layers and have a sleeve that fits an air filter. They have an adjustable nose bridge and ear loops. They also come with a connection lock that you can wrap around your head and attach to both loops to ease the pressure of the loops on your ears.
Herschel classic fitted face mask, $15 (buy one get one free)
If you struggle with your glasses or sunglasses fogging up when you wear a face mask, try this no-slip Oakley mask, which promises to solve this issue. It fits snugly on the face and has adjustable straps. It has an aluminum nose bridge that allows for easy adjustments around your glasses, and a semi-rigid mask body that promises to keep the mask slightly off your face for improved breathability. Replacement filters are available for purchase.
Oakley MSK3 anti-fog face mask, $58 (Amazon)
Oakley MSK3 anti-fog face mask, $60 (Oakley)
First published on January 24, 2022 / 1:09 PM
He was was one of 28 people indicted in Georgia. Also among them, rapper Gunna.
The lawsuit says the defendants "squandered" more than $20 million in money from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families anti-poverty program.
A pre-sale estimate suggested the auction could raise $50,000 to $80,000.
Coroner Steve Lockyear said in the statement that White died at 7:06 p.m. local time, adding that an autopsy is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Tuesday.
Democrats had hoped it would Ukraine aid and COVID aid would be linked, but it likely wouldn't attract sufficient Republican support.
Investors balanced a strong U.S. jobs report against worries the Fed's plans to bring down inflation may cause a recession.
Women who are turned away from abortion access are more likely to suffer from financial distress and health problems.
A pre-sale estimate suggested the auction could raise $50,000 to $80,000.
Groups that fund abortions and related costs like travel are bracing for their own expenses to skyrocket if Roe is struck down.
At retailers across the U.S., 40% of the top-selling baby formula products were out of stock as of late last month.
A pre-sale estimate suggested the auction could raise $50,000 to $80,000.
CBS News has obtained multiple state law enforcement bulletins and analysis reflecting increased vigilance since the leak.
Democrats had hoped it would Ukraine aid and COVID aid would be linked, but it likely wouldn't attract sufficient Republican support.
In West Virginia, redistricting has led to a primary between two incumbents in the 2nd congressional district.
Esper has been accused of saving explosive allegations about his interactions with Trump for the publication of his book – some two years after the events transpired.
The law, which went into effect Sunday, bans puberty blockers and hormone treatment for transgender children under 19.
Women who are turned away from abortion access are more likely to suffer from financial distress and health problems.
At retailers across the U.S., 40% of the top-selling baby formula products were out of stock as of late last month.
Groups that fund abortions and related costs like travel are bracing for their own expenses to skyrocket if Roe is struck down.
Finding mental health care can be frustrating and overwhelming. Senior clinical psychologist Jamie Howard joins "CBS Mornings" to share advice on starting the search for mental health care, what questions to ask insurance companies and what families can do if they don't have financial means.
"There is no doubt that climate change is playing a role here," a climate scientist told CBS News.
Patron, a Jack Russel Terrier, has helped detect more than 200 explosive devices.
Japan had its largest population drop on record last year – the eleventh consecutive year that population has decreased.
"For steel mills to continue as an economic lifeline for the people of Ukraine, they must be able to export their steel," Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said.
Kelly Meafua's club said one of his teammates "tried to rescue him, without success."
Actors from the Oscar-winning movie speak about the push for disability portrayal on the big screen and accessibility for the Deaf community.
The season - with a whopping 34 new productions - represents a full return to theaters after nearly two years of a pandemic-mandated shutdown.
The Irish rock band was also joined by a Ukrainian band, Antytila.
"CBS Mornings" is revealing one of the newest "Sesame Street" puppets. Mecha Cookie is a robot hero-in-training who uses STEM superpowers to save the day on the new show "Sesame Street Mecha Builders."
Bono and The Edge, the legendary members of Irish rock band U2, made a surprise appearance in a subway station in Kyiv to lift Ukrainians' spirits amid the war with Russia.
Twenty internet service providers have agreed to either cut costs or increase speeds to provide millions of households with affordable high-speed internet.
Top consumer brands and deep-pocketed investors are staking a claim to the next phase of the internet.
A new CBS Reports documentary entitled "Are the Kids All Right?" The Internet" explores the toll the online world is taking on kids and teenagers' self-esteem. Emma Lembke, a digital wellness youth activist featured in the documentary, sits down with CBS News' Mola Lenghi and Tanya Rivero to discuss why she launched a movement encouraging people to "log off."
"Technology is baked into the DNA of our generation," one teen activist said — but they don't always like it.
The Crew-3's return to Earth will close out a 176-day mission spanning 2,832 orbits and 75 million miles.
The first showcase images from the $10 billion telescope will be unveiled in mid July, after instrument checkout is complete.
Up to 6,000 tons of sunscreen end up on coral reefs every year, according to the National Park Service – and it's taking a deadly toll on vital ecosystems.
Western states are experiencing the worst drought in at least 1,200 years, and scientists say climate change has made conditions significantly worse. Dartmouth College assistant professor of geography Justin Mankin joined CBS News' Mola Lenghi and Tanya Rivero to discuss the historic drought and how it's forcing communities to make an impossible choice.
The Crew-3's return to Earth will close out a 176-day mission spanning 2,832 orbits and 75 million miles.
The California condor -- the largest native North American bird, with a wingspan of nearly 10 feet -- were last spotted in the area around 1892.
He was was one of 28 people indicted in Georgia. Also among them, rapper Gunna.
The lawsuit says the defendants "squandered" more than $20 million in money from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families anti-poverty program.
Coroner Steve Lockyear said in the statement that White died at 7:06 p.m. local time, adding that an autopsy is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Tuesday.
The celebrity chef is accused of groping a woman at a restaurant in 2017.
Vicky White and Casey Cole White, who are not related, have been missing for more than a week, despite a massive manhunt to locate them.
The first showcase images from the $10 billion telescope will be unveiled in mid July, after instrument checkout is complete.
The splashdown went according to plan, marking the end of the crew's 176-day mission and the maiden voyage of the SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule.
Three earlier attempts to load the giant rocket with 730,000 gallons of propellant were only partially successful.
The Crew-3's return to Earth will close out a 176-day mission spanning 2,832 orbits and 75 million miles.
The fireball disintegrated 34 miles above a swampy area, generating "an energy equivalent of 3 tons of TNT," NASA said.
If it glittered or dazzled, it was likely being worn by a celeb at fashion's biggest party of the year
Looking for something fresh to watch? Here are the top films available on the streaming platform.
One of these shows could be your next binge obsession.
A look at the evidence in "The Dexter Killer" case; plus, newly revealed letters from the man police say wanted to be like fictional serial-killer Dexter Morgan.
Bizarre clues and evidence in the investigation into the Colorado mother's disappearance include a spy pen, plastic needle cap, and a chipmunk alibi.
Renowned filmmaker Tyler Perry becomes personally involved in a case that has sparked outrage, when 27-year old Terrance Williams disappears after he was last seen getting into the back of a police car in Naples, Florida. The cop denies any wrongdoing or knowledge of the young man’s fate. Terrance’s mother receives a chilling phone call from another family with an eerily similar story. 30-part series coming soon to Paramount+.
Gen Z is the first generation to go from birth through adolescence completely connected. This episode of the CBS Reports documentary series "Are the Kids All Right?" reveals the toll the online world is taking on kids’ self-esteem and self-control, as well as how some intrepid teens are trying to reshape their generation's relationship with technology.
The stock market continued its downward trend Monday, as Americans face the highest inflation in decades. John Leer, chief economist for Morning Consult. joins Elaine Quijano on CBS News to discuss.
We share the stories of student-athletes, educators and researchers who are leaving a mark on their communities. First, we visit a company in Colorado that is reducing stress without reducing productivity with a shortened workweek. Then, in search of family history, we travel to Texas to see how a restoration project is working to identify and digitize records of nearly 200,000 people registered as slaves. Watch these stories and more on "Eye on America" with host Michelle Miller.
Celebrity Chef Mario Batali went on trial Monday after a Massachusetts woman accused him of kissing and groping her in a Boston bar in 2017. Batali's lawyer denied the allegations and claims the accuser has a financial incentive to lie. Joseph Tully, a criminal defense attorney in California, joins CBS News' Elaine Quijano to discuss the trial.
Copyright ©2022 CBS Interactive Inc. All rights reserved.