An air pollution mask or respirator is a device to protect you from inhaling dangerous substances, such as chemicals and infectious particles in the air. There are different types of respirators classified depending their usage such as escape respirator, particulate respirator, gas masks etc. Normally, in the situation, like we are facing in Delhi-NCR we use the particulate masks. Particulate respirators are simply “air-purifying respirators”, least expensive, and protective against particles. They do not protect against chemicals, or gases, or vapors, and are intended only for low hazard levels like pollution. Particulate respirators they clean particles out of the air as you breathe. They are also divided into two categories as N99 and N95 masks. The N99 or N95 is an efficiency rating that means the mask blocks about 99 or 95 percent of particles that are 0.3 microns in size or larger. It is to be noted that good quality branded anti-pollution masks are priced between Rs. 150 to Rs. 2000. So, even if you’re looking for a cheaper mask you still have brands like 3M or Honeywell, which have been making such products for a long time. Here we have compiled a list of best anti-pollution masks according to their price and categories that can be helpful in choosing the best mask for you.
Best masks to use in Delhi air pollution
Vogmask
Vogmask is one of the best masks available in India, both in terms of quality as well as design. In terms of specifications, these are rated N99, that means effective against 99 percent of pollution particulate. These masks also come with a carbon filter and feature either one or two valves for easy breathing. They also block smells, are washable, and comfortable to wear. The masks are, however, a little bit expensive. The Vogmask price in India starts from Rs. 1800 and it may go up to Rs. 2500. They can be purchased online from here. However, they are easily available offline as well.
Atlanta Healthcare’s Cambridge Masks
Grin Health Anti-Pollution Mask
Dettol Siti Shield Protect+
3M 9332+ Aura
Honeywell Pollution N95 mask
It is the most simple type of mask which is N95 certified. It doesn’t feature any Valve and uses only filters to breathe in and out. It also doesn’t have any carbon filter. It is comfortable and easy to wear with braided elastic headbands. The Honeywell Pollution mask is priced around Rs. 150. The pack of 3 masks is available for Rs. 449 on Flipkart. So, when you are buying an air pollution mask, make sure that it is N95 or N99 certified as many cheap masks are also available that have not been tested for particle filtration performance. You may have seen some cheap surgical masks but they are designed to protect you from pollution differently, so you should buy at least N95 masks.
