Select independently determines what we cover and recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more. Out of all the different face masks you can choose from, one type is ...

Many people choose to wear an N95 mask as a way to reduce exposure to harmful viruses and airborne toxins or pollutants.

What Is an N95 Mask? According to the CDC, an N95 respirator (that’s the official term—respirator, not mask) is “a type of respirator which removes particles from the air that are breathed through it.

Editor's note: Find the latest COVID-19 news and guidance in Medscape's Coronavirus Resource Center. Exposing contaminated N95 respirators to vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP) or ultraviolet (UV) ...