Best-of
Smoke masks
A well-fitting NIOSH-approved N95 cuts the fine particles in wildfire smoke for adults and older children; cloth and surgical masks do not.
Used for: Water damage and mouldWildfire smoke
Our picks
Wildfire smoke
Moldex 2200N95 N95 Particulate Respirator
Wildfire smoke
3M 8210 N95 Particulate Respirator
NIOSH approval Tie
Moldex 2200N95 N95 Particulate Respirator:
TC-84A-0327, on the NIOSH list
3M 8210 N95 Particulate Respirator:
TC-84A-0007, on the NIOSH list
Valve Tie
Moldex 2200N95 N95 Particulate Respirator:
No exhalation valve
3M 8210 N95 Particulate Respirator:
No exhalation valve
Nose seal
Moldex 2200N95 N95 Particulate Respirator:
Winner
Foam cushion, no metal strip
3M 8210 N95 Particulate Respirator:
Not confirmed: 3M refused our request
Sizes
Moldex 2200N95 N95 Particulate Respirator:
Winner
M/L; Small is the 2201N95
3M 8210 N95 Particulate Respirator:
Not confirmed
Shelf life
Moldex 2200N95 N95 Particulate Respirator:
Winner
9 years
3M 8210 N95 Particulate Respirator:
Not confirmed
Latex Tie
Moldex 2200N95 N95 Particulate Respirator:
Straps contain latex
3M 8210 N95 Particulate Respirator:
Not confirmed
Overall winner: Moldex 2200N95 N95 Particulate Respirator, 8.1 vs 7.0 on our score.
Choose the Moldex 2200N95 N95 Particulate Respirator if you want a mask whose fit, sizes and shelf life we could confirm
US retailers
Choose the 3M 8210 N95 Particulate Respirator if you already know the 3M 8210 fits you well
Before you buy
- Check the NIOSH approval Look for the TC approval number and check it on the NIOSH certified list.
- Get the fit right Fit is best on a clean-shaven face; do a seal check each time you put it on.
- Know the limits N95s filter particles, not gases, and are not for children under 2.
Guides
Smoke mask questions
Do N95 masks work for wildfire smoke?
For the fine particles, yes, if they fit well. The Public Health Agency of Canada says a well-fitting NIOSH-certified N95 reduces exposure to fine smoke particles, but not the gases. Cloth and surgical masks, bandanas and face shields don’t protect against smoke.
Can children wear N95 masks?
Not under 2. The US EPA says N95s don’t come in children’s sizes, though some older children can wear an adult small; PHAC adds that anyone who struggles to breathe in one, or can’t take it off alone, shouldn’t wear one. Keep children in a cleaner-air room instead.
How do I check a mask is NIOSH-approved?
Find the TC approval number printed on the mask (TC-84A-…) and look it up on the NIOSH approved respirators list. Both masks here are on it. Replace a mask when it is dirty, damp or damaged, per PHAC.