A KN95 mask is a high-filtration respirator that complies with the Chinese standard GB 2626-2019. When worn correctly, a genuine KN95 mask filters at least 95 % of airborne particles (in the 100–300 nm range) and provides a much higher level of protection for the wearer than ordinary cloth or surgical masks.

To get the full benefit of your KN95 mask, it is essential to put it on correctly, check the fit, handle it properly while in use, and store it appropriately between uses.

1. Preparation Before Putting on the Mask

- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer immediately before touching the mask.

- Inspect the mask for any signs of damage: tears, holes, stretched or broken ear loops, or a loose nose clip. If the mask is visibly soiled or damaged, discard it and use a new one.

2. Putting on the Mask

2.1. Unfold the mask completely. Hold it by the outer edges, with the printed side facing outward and the metal nose clip at the top.

2.2. Position the mask over your face. The bottom edge should sit just under your chin, and the top edge should cover the bridge of your nose.

2.3. Secure the straps. Place each ear loop behind your ears. If your mask uses head straps, pull the lower strap over your head first, then the upper strap.

2.4. Shape the nose clip. Using the fingers of both hands, press the metal strip firmly against the shape of your nose and cheekbones. Work from the center outward to ensure a snug, customized fit.

2.5. Perform a fit check. Cup both hands over the mask, being careful not to disturb its position. Exhale sharply. If you feel air leaking around your nose or eyes, the nose clip needs further adjustment.

3. While Wearing the Mask

- Do not touch the front of the mask once it is in place. The exterior may be contaminated. If you must touch the mask for any reason, wash or sanitize your hands immediately afterward.

- Avoid pulling the mask down under your chin or hanging it from one ear. This breaks the seal and can contaminate the inner layer.

- Do not combine a KN95 mask with any other mask. Wearing a second mask over or under a KN95 does not improve protection and may actually interfere with the fit and seal.

- Limit total wear time. While KN95 masks are more durable than standard disposable masks, they should generally be used for no more than 40 hours of total wear time, and replaced if they become dirty, damaged, or noticeably harder to breathe through.

4. Removing the Mask

4.1. Wash or sanitize your hands before removing the mask.

4.2. Remove the mask by the straps only. Do not touch the front of the mask.

   - For ear-loop models: hold both ear loops and gently lift them off your ears.

   - For head-strap models: lift the lower strap over your head first, then the upper strap.

4.3. Avoid shaking the mask. Shaking can re-suspend trapped particles into the air.

4.4. Dispose of or store the mask immediately. If the mask is to be reused, place it in a clean storage container. If it is to be discarded, place it directly into a trash bin and wash your hands afterwards.

5. Storing a KN95 Mask for Reuse

Genuine KN95 masks are disposable by design, but with proper care they can be reused multiple times safely. Follow these guidelines:

- Store the mask in a clean, dry paper bag between uses. A brown lunch-bag is ideal. Do not store a used KN95 mask in an airtight plastic bag, as trapped moisture can degrade the filter material and promote bacterial growth.

-Place the bag in a safe location where the mask will not be touched by others, get wet, or be exposed to direct sunlight or excessive heat.

- Allow at least five days before reusing the same mask. This "rotation" period allows any potentially infectious biological contaminants to decline naturally.

- Label your masks by day if you use multiple masks in rotation, and keep track of how many times each mask has been worn.

6. When to Discard a KN95 Mask

Replace your KN95 mask immediately if any of the following conditions occur:

- The mask has been worn five or more times (or approximately 40 hours of total wear).

- The mask is visibly soiled, stained, or wet.

- The mask has holes, tears, or damaged material.

- The ear loops are over-stretched, broken, or have lost their elasticity.

- The mask no longer fits snugly against your face, or gaps appear around the edges.

- The mask has become noticeably harder to breathe through than when it was new.