There are many types of masks you can use to protect yourself and others from getting and spreading COVID-19. When choosing a mask, choose one that fits snugly. Learn more about how to choose a mask that fits well and offers the best protection.
Cloth Masks can be made from a variety of fabrics, and many types of cloth masks are available.
Look for
- Multiple layers of tightly woven, breathable fabric
- Nose wire
- Mask should block light when held up to bright light source
Do NOT wear
- Masks with exhalation valves or vents
- Single layer or masks made of thin fabric that don’t block light
When to wear
- Anytime you are indoors or outdoors with people who don’t live with you.
2 Ways to have better fit and extra protection
- Wear two masks (disposable mask underneath AND cloth mask on top)
- Combine a cloth mask with a fitter or brace
Disposable face masks are widely available.
Look for:
- A description indicating multiple layers of non-woven material
- Nose wire
Do NOT wear
- Masks with gaps around the sides of the face or nose
- If wet or dirty
When to wear
- Anytime you are indoors or outdoors with people you don’t live with.
Ways to have better fit and extra protection
- Wear two masks (disposable mask underneath AND cloth mask on top)
- A cloth mask can be combined with a fitter or brace
- Knot and tuck ear loops of a 3-ply mask where they join the edge of the mask
- Fold and tuck the unneeded material under the edges (See: https://youtu.be/UANi8Cc71A0external icon).
KN95 masks are a type of filtering facepiece respirator that are commonly made in China and similar to N95 masks commonly used in the United States.
Look for
KN95 masks that meet requirements similar to those set by CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for respirators
Do NOT wear
- If you have certain types of facial hair
- Counterfeit (fake) KN95 masks
- If hard to breathe
- With other masks; wear KN95 alone only
BE AWARE: About 60% KN95 masks in the United States are counterfeit (fake) and DO NOT meet NIOSH requirements.
