What’s the Difference Between N95 Masks and KN95 Masks?

N95 Masks vs. KN95 Masks: How Are They Alike And Differ?

Both N95 masks and KN95 masks are made by using multiple layers of synthetic material (often used is called polypropylene plastic polymer) and the mask are designed to be worn over the mouth and nose. Both masks include straps that go behind the ear to hold the mask on your face. These masks must filter out and capture 95 percent of tiny 0.3 micron particles in the air, which is where you get the “95” name.

It’s critical to point out that N95 masks offer protection against particles as small as 0.3 microns in size. Now, the coronavirus itself is only around 0.1 microns in size, which is smaller than the 0.3 size. If that’s the case, how can it prevent coronavirus? Studies and research has shown that coronavirus is usually attached to something larger, this could be a droplet that is generated by breathing and talking,” explains Alex, founder of Protectly, which sells masks, face shields, gloves and wipes on their website. Since the masks had multiple layers of non-woven fabric and melt blown fabric in the N95 masks, the strong material makeup of these masks are great at preventing airborne particles from entering through your mouth and nose.”

The big question a lot of people are asking, “how do N95 masks differ from KN95 masks?” The main difference is how the masks are certified. In general, the N95 is the U.S. standard, the KN95 is the China standard. Because of this, only N95 masks are approved for health-care use in the United States, even though KN95 masks have many of the same protective properties.

N95 masks must pass a deep inspection and certification process from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), which is part of the CDC. Companies that are making KN95 masks are allowed to seek approval from the FDA, but they must get emergency authorization for a foreign certification that meets the 95 percent filtration requirement. The FDA requires manufacturers of KN95 masks to also provide documentation that the masks and materials used are authentic.

There's no question about it, N95 masks are very popular, but why? For starters, N95 masks have been used for decades. From construction sites and hospitals to industrial zones, N95 masks are worn to protect wearers.

Today, frontline health-care workers and those who have close contact with others are using N95 masks to protect themselves from contracting Covid-19. The first and foremost safety precaution for a health-care worker to take is to wear a NIOSH-approved N95 face mask.”

The N95 masks gives you a tight seal around your face unlike other ppe masks.

In closing, you do want to make sure your N95 masks are authentic. They should include a NIOSH approved stamp. While some masks may claim that it's N95, they may not be authentic. N95 masks offer more protection to you versus the KN95 masks. Due to this, you want to make sure you buy N95 masks from reputable manufacturers like Protectly.co.