FDA Approved N95 Face Mask Respirator

FDA Approved N95 Face Mask Respirator is a respiratory protective device designed to achieve a very close facial fit and very efficient filtration of airborne particles.

The 'N95' designation means that when subjected to careful testing, the respirator blocks at least 95 percent of very small (0.3 micron) test particles. If properly fitted, the filtration capabilities of N95 respirators exceed those of face masks.

Although recommended as a single use item there's 2 ways to disinfect and reuse N95 masks.

1) You can use a steam iron. Set the temperature to high and steam all around the mask for about 3-5 minutes.

2) Steam it in a pot. Fill about a quarter or two thirds with water, place the mask on a tray above (about 2-3 inches) the water level and steam for about 5 minutes.Add a pinch of salt and some disinfectant (liquid or tablet type; Important: read the instructions given because different brands have different concentrations) to the water in the steam iron or pot. Let it dry indoors for a day or overnight. Do NOT use bleach for it can break down the N95 mask filter membrane. However; these procedures can only be used for about 10-15 times.

Another way to prolong the use of your N95, use a 3-ply surgical mask over your N95; this way you don't have to disinfect your N95 so often (disinfect after about 5 times of use).