Welcome to our new series, UF Editor’s Picks, where we aim to remove your endless searching by providing our Top 5 picks of certain products each month. Let us do the research for you.
Winter is upon us so you may be searching for a safe and reliable mask to combat the air pollution. We know this is easier said than done. With so many mask options on the market, which product is better? Are disposable or reusable more effective? Is a breathing valve necessary? There are so many factors to bear in mind when weighing up the options.
In this cycle of UF Editor's Picks, let us answer these questions for you. After comparing the filtration ability and fit of masks available both online and in stores, we have developed a list of our most recommended products.
Here are the top five brands, along with our reasons for recommending them.
1. 3M 8576
RMB33.2 (for one)/RMB249.5 (for ten)
3M is probably the most common brand of mask. Besides Taobao, you can easily find this mask in most pharmacies and convenience stores, such as Family Mart. Although most of the respirators combat pollutants adequately, we recommend the 8576 series. This mask not only blocks out 99.5 percent of certain oil and non-oil based particles, it also adjusts to different face shapes and provides optimum comfort due with its adjustable nose clip.
Purchase 3M by scanning the QR code below:
2. Shigematsu DD11V
RMB48.95 (for one)/RMB386 (for ten)
Shigematsu is a renowned Japan-based company selling assorted face masks. Back in 2013 when Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster occurred, the Japanese Prime Minister inspected the site wearing a gas mask produced by Shigematsu. Therefore, you can be sure their masks’ filtration ability is extremely effective. This is further validated by the fact that this brand tops almost all pollution mask recommended lists, which helps support the higher price you’ll find yourself paying.
Purchase Shigematsu by scanning the QR code below:
3. Honeywell H950V
RMB90.95 (for 15)/RMB111.95 (for 20)/RMB132.95 (for 25)
The most cost-effective masks on the market may be the ones from Honeywell. A single mask from Taobao is much cheaper than those of 3M and Shigmatsu, not to mention the wide range of colors and patterns to choose from, for those who are fashion-conscious. While the protection may not be as high as the premium ones, it can still filter out nearly 94.2 percent of the molecules which is certainly better for your lungs, than not wearing a mask at all.
Purchase Honeywell by scanning the QR code below:
4. Koken HI-LUCK KIDS
RMB310.4 (for ten)
There so many masks available for adults, however, when it comes to children, the options become limited. Fortunately, we have Koken. Specially designed for children, the mask can filter 99.4 percent of particles, which is pivotal to protect a child’s vulnerable respiratory system. In addition, the mask’s material stretches, which ensures it can be airtight for children aged 5 to 12.
Purchase Koken by scanning the QR code below:
5. Lvdun
RMB38.45 (for one)
Like Honeywell, Lvdun also provides different colors and patterns that look great while also protecting your lungs. Their masks are reusable, however you need to change the filter discs regularly. Owning a unique design of non-woven fabric and filter discs, their masks can filter better than Honeywell. Even athletes from China’s sports team use this brand. However, if your face is on the smaller side, we wouldn’t recommend this product as there may be air leaks, deeming it less effective.
Purchase Lvdun by scanning the QR code below:
