Even though masks haven’t been required for some time, some highly crowded areas and public areas, like the subway, still recommend a mask or face covering.
Especially now, as the newest variant, known as XBB. 1.5 spreads across the country, making up 41% of new cases as of New Year’s Eve.
Thankfully, nearly three years into the pandemic, there’s myriad ways to keep safe, including at-home testing, and a variety of safe, comfortable masks.
The KF94 mask, for example, is most comparable to a hybrid of the medical-grade N95 masks and the more common cotton masks, with four layers of filtration as opposed to three. The “KF” in the name stands for Korea Filter, as that is where the masks originated and are produced for the most part.
“KF94s seem to be more readily available than the N95, less expensive [generally under $2 each] and easier to use for many people,” Stephen Morse, an epidemiology professor at Columbia University, said to NPR in 2021. “KF94 is actually intended for public use. In Korea, they are often worn by ordinary citizens to filter out dust or pollution.”
If you can’t hop on a plane to South Korea, don’t fear, as many Korean-made masks are sold on Amazon and at other retailers for U.S. consumers. See below for a few options that vary in color, quantity and size, available to order now.
1. Good Day Korea Black Disposable KF94 Face Masks, $14
Have a good day with cleaner air with these disposable masks from Good Day.
The Korean brand masks have four layers of protection, made of non-woven fabric with elastic earloops to secure the mask to your face. The masks — in a pack of 10 — are unisex adult size and come in black.
2. WellBefore 3D Style KF94, $1.39 each
Stay healthy and well with a KF94 mask from WellBefore.
The most popular black variety of the KF94 is back in stock, in addition to the classic white mask. The masks come individually wrapped, remaining sanitary and safe until you unwrap them at home.
Made with five layers for ultimate protection, they also come with fully adjustable earloops and a wire nose bridge to keep the mask secured over your nose and mouth. They can be ordered in bulk, starting at just 10 masks for $1.39 each.
3. VIDA FDA Listed Adult KF94 Mask, $25
Live the good life with these masks from Vida. The KF94 masks come in various quantities and sizes to best fit every face. Choose from Kids Extra Small, Kids, Adults or a Family Pack of all the sizes and then your quantity, ranging from 10 to 1,000.
4. KF94 Face Protective Mask for Adult White 20-pack, $22
If you need more masks, opt for a 20-pack from Korean brand KN Flax.
The masks come in a classic white color and have four layers of protection with eco-friendly fabric, made for comfort against sensitive skin and easier breathability. The masks are made in Korea but feature English packaging for easy use by US consumers.
5. KF94 Face Protective Mask for Kids (20-Pack), $28
Keep kids safe, too, with smaller-sized masks with the same level of protection as adult-sized options.
From Happy Life, the children’s masks have the same four-layer design and elastic ear straps, coming in a package of 20 disposable masks. They are offered in white and are made with an eco-friendly fabric to lessen any irritation on kids’ skin.
6. Flexmon KF94 Masks (5-Pack), $12
For unbeatable protection, you can’t go wrong with a bundle of five for only $12.
Sold on Amazon, the five-pack boasts four-layer protection to filter the air around you while the non-woven fabric is soft against the skin for long periods of wear.
7. SumFree KF94 Masks (30-Pack), $18
If you’re looking to buy face masks in bulk, you’ve come to the right place. SumFree offers a 30-pack for less than $20, featuring an adjustable hook closure for all its Korean-made disposable masks.
8. Rmaytiked Multicolored Face Masks (50-Pack), $15
Here’s a new take on the drab medical-blue and white masks. This multicolor 50-pack — yes, that many — is only $15 and comes in handy to protect you from the Omicron variant all season long. Plus, they’re too adorable to pass up.
9. Vernassa KF94 Masks (50-Pack), $17
Available in multiple colors, Vernassa’s KF94 Masks comes in a 50-pack that will last you well over a month. Not to mention, they’ll protect you from the Omicron variant and for a great price.
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