N95 masks (also called Respirator masks) filter ≥ 95% of airborne particles with no inward leakage. They are available in soft folded masks that look like KN95s or harder molded forms like construction workers’ wear. There are two primary types of certifications for N95s in the USA, there is NIOSH and FDA.


NIOSH is a special certification that can be applied for to verify specific filtration level of airborne particles but does not mean they necessarily filter fluids for medical needs, such as a viruses. Only if a mask is approved by the FDA, has it been approved to filter medical particles.

The N95 is one of the top sought after masks for medical providers who work with any type of infectious disease. Some N95 respirators feature an exhalation valve which allows easier breathing for the wearer. While the level of protection for the person wearing the mask is the same, a valve increases the likelihood that infectious diseases may leak outwards and contaminate the public, therefore most commercial airlines or sterile environments discourage the use of these in an N95 respirator.

KN95s may look similar to the soft N95s and also filter ≥ 95% of airborne particles, however they may have a small inward leakage rate of air upto ≤ 8%. Beware that some people call these N95 masks, but there is a difference in filtration for these masks.