In theory, any mask worn correctly is better than no mask. In covering the mouth and the nose, it prevents, to some extent, the exchange of respiratory droplets. However, the level of prevention largely depends on the type of mask. It is important to first differentiate between a non-surgical face mask and a surgical mask. Surgical masks are tested to meet certain standards and approved for clinical use.

Surgical face mask are made in different thicknesses and with different ability to protect you from contact with liquids. These properties may also affect how easily you can breathe through the face mask and how well the surgical mask protects you.

If worn properly, a surgical face mask is meant to help block large-particle droplets, splashes, sprays, or splatter that may contain germs (viruses and bacteria), keeping it from reaching your mouth and nose. Surgical face masks may also help reduce exposure of your saliva and respiratory secretions to others.

It is important to note that not all cloth masks are created equal. If you are using a cloth mask, consider the fabric, number of layers, and fit. The most effective cloth mask will have a fabric with a tight weave, multiple layers, and one that cups tightly around the face. This will most securely block your respiratory droplets from contaminating other individuals and surfaces.

While a surgical face mask may be effective in blocking splashes and large-particle droplets, a face mask, by design, does not filter or block very small particles in the air that may be transmitted by coughs, sneezes, or certain medical procedures. Surgical masks also do not provide complete protection from germs and other contaminants because of the loose fit between the surface of the face mask and your face.

To make sure that you’re adequately protected, you need to choose the best disposable face mask. That means selecting the right type, closure style, and other features that ensure the utmost protection and safety. Our buying guide has all the details to consider when shopping for disposable face masks. When you're ready to buy, please consider our highlighted favorites.

Medical face masks like the 3M™ N95 Respirator are carefully designed and manufactured to ensure that they provide optimal protection and help to prevent the spread of disease. How effective your face mask is will depend on the material that it constructed from. Some medical face shields are designed to reduce the spread of germs from the wearer only. They do not filter out harmful particulates but instead trap infected air from spreading past the material of the mask. The N95 mask both traps germs within the mask and filters out germs in the air that the wearer is breathing. It is also capable of filtering out dust, smoke and other air pollutants.

Disposable respirator masks are usually sold in smaller packs because they’re more expensive and they prevent the inhalation of finer particles than other face masks. They typically come in boxes of 12 to 20 masks. Dust masks and surgical masks are usually available in larger packs of 50 to 125 masks. If you only use a face mask for occasional painting or cleaning jobs or when you’re sick, a smaller quantity is usually sufficient. If you paint and clean regularly or suffer from chronic allergies, a larger pack is a better value.

Material

Disposable face masks are usually made from paper or non-woven fabrics. Some masks are made of polypropylene, which is a plastic. To make sure that your masks are hypoallergenic, opt for an option made with a material that’s 100% latex-free to avoid any possible irritation.