Since the COVID-19 pandemic five years ago, WIRED has continued to update our mask recommendations due to the constant changes in availability and evolving guidance. Add to that the threat of toxic air, not only from wildfire smoke but, even worse, from burning homes. Now is the time to purchase masks in the same way one would buy a first aid kit or medicine, just in case. Some masks—like our top affordable pick, the Honeywell Safety DF300 N95 Flatfold ($13 for 50)—are ideal for public transportation or for use in a theater, and others—like our top overall N95 pick, IQAir's KN95/FFP ($60 for 10)—are put on during or after a wildfire. With the risk of disruption hitting mask supply chains, along with the issues of counterfeit masks, community spread of illness, a longer and more active wildfire season, climate change, and the sometimes-vanishing guidance pages on government websites, it’s important to keep your masks at the ready.
Most alarming is the Trump administration’s recent gutting of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, or NIOSH. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website declares, “Due to the reduction in force across NIOSH, no new respirator approval applications can be accepted.” This will impact compliance and safety of new and future manufactured masks. Masks do have expiration dates, but I still think now is a good time to stock up on a variety of masks that you know are certified safe and effective.
We've also included some tips on mask care and choosing the best kind of mask straps at the end of this list. Be sure to check out our other air quality guides, including the Best Air Purifiers, Best Indoor Quality Monitors, and Best Fans.
Updated November 2025: We've added the 1870+, 9205+ and 9211+ N95 respirators from 3M Aura, and masks from Lement and Kimtech. We've also removed out-of-stock items and updated prices throughout.
N95 Masks
N95 masks are made to US standards for filtering 95 percent of particulates. The CDC has a giant list of approved N95 masks. Unfortunately, the supply of many brands is constantly fluctuating (even in 2025), so you may need to check back regularly to see which are in stock. Many stores also have regional stock based on in-store supply, so be sure to check your local zip code where applicable.
Best N95 for the Next Pandemic
At WIRED, we continue to test and wear masks from 3M’s Aura series, and the red-strapped 1870+ is an FDA-cleared surgical mask. The 1870+ carries the highest level of fluid resistance, at 160 mmHg. According to the CDC, “A primary test for the fluid barrier is a qualitative test in which synthetic blood is projected onto the exterior of the mask at a specific pressure.” (In this case, at 160 mmHg.) If the 1870+ can stand up to a torn artery spouting blood, it can handle the coughs and sneezes of a world gone ill. It can protect the wearer from “microorganisms, body fluids, and particulate material.” Unlike 3M’s Aura 9211+, the 1870+ feels less breathable, but like the 9211+, it doesn’t fog up my eyeglasses. It has a firm seal and is comfortable to wear. I am not a fan of full head straps, though I understand they are a necessary evil. I prefer ear loops, but this is a mask I will always keep in my home.
Shelf Life 5 years from date of manufacturing Sizes Adult Adjustable Straps 2 red latex-free rubber full head straps
Great Protection at an Affordable Price
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