{"id":93713,"date":"2026-10-17T14:21:05","date_gmt":"2026-10-17T06:21:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/?p=93713"},"modified":"2026-10-17T14:21:05","modified_gmt":"2026-10-17T06:21:05","slug":"n95-masks-for-haze-reuse-use-and-replacement-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/?p=93713","title":{"rendered":"N95 masks for haze: Reuse, use and replacement guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<p class=\"text-primary article-summary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">SINGAPORE \u2013<!-- --> <!-- -->When<!-- --> <!-- -->Pollutant Standards Index (PSI)<!-- --> levels in Singapore hit the unhealthy and very unhealthy levels in mid-October, the authorities started distributing<a href=\"https:\/\/www.straitstimes.com\/singapore\/haze-shelters-to-open-n95-masks-to-be-distributed-amid-worsening-haze?ref=inline-article\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"gap-x-04 items-center inline text-primary-60 select-auto\" aria-label=\"link\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"custom-link\"><span class=\"inline font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"typography-test-id\"> free N95 masks for vulnerable people<\/span><\/a>, such as the elderly, expectant mothers, younger children and people with medical conditions such as asthma.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">From Oct 14, each eligible person could collect a pack of two N95 masks at community clubs as well as via vending machines at locations such as selected public transport hubs and social service offices.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">But with the bad haze conditions <a href=\"https:\/\/www.straitstimes.com\/singapore\/psi-could-go-over-300-before-haze-improves-once-inter-monsoon-period-starts-grace-fu?ref=inline-article\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"gap-x-04 items-center inline text-primary-60 select-auto\" aria-label=\"link\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"custom-link\"><span class=\"inline font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"typography-test-id\">possibly extending into early December \u2013 with PSI possibly exceeding 300 \u2013<\/span><\/a> how long can a pack of two N95 masks last?<\/p>\n<p><iframe class=\"responsive-iframe-base st_visuals st_visuals-embed\" title=\"st_visuals embed\" scrolling=\"no\" src=\"https:\/\/www.straitstimes.com\/multimedia\/graphics\/2026\/08\/singapore-haze-widget\/index.html\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer;falseclipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;\" loading=\"eager\" data-testid=\"responsiveIframe\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">Can these masks be reused and when should they be replaced?<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"font-primary-headline-md-semibold\" data-testid=\"article-subhead-test-id\">What are N95 masks, and how do they protect you against the haze?<\/h2>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">An N95 mask is one that forms a tight seal around the face, and can filter out 95% of fine particles between 0.1 and 0.3 micrometres in size.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">It is exposure to such particles that can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat in otherwise healthy people.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">Continuous exposure to haze particles at unhealthy <!-- -->PSI<!-- --> levels \u2013 of 101 and above \u2013 over several days can affect the heart and lungs, especially in those with chronic heart or lung disease.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">N95 masks also meets standards set by the United States\u2019\u00a0National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"font-primary-headline-md-semibold\" data-testid=\"article-subhead-test-id\">Are KN95 and KF94 masks the same as N95 masks?<\/h2>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">KN95, FFP2 and KF94 masks are just as effective as N95 masks in reducing a person\u2019s exposure to haze particles, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has noted.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">The different names simply indicate their respective national standards.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">KN95 indicates the mask meets standards in China, blocking at least 95% of airborne particles.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">KF94 is a South Korean standard indicating the masks filter at least 94% of such particles, while FFP2 is a European standard similar to the N95.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"font-primary-headline-md-semibold\" data-testid=\"article-subhead-test-id\">N95 masks have sold out at my neighbourhood pharmacy. And I can\u2019t find KN95 or KF94 masks either. Can I use a surgical mask or reusable face mask instead?<\/h2>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">\u201cN95 and equivalent\u00a0masks\u00a0are the most effective options for protection against haze because they are designed to filter fine particulate matter, including PM2.5, when properly fitted and worn,\u201d said Tan Geak Poh, respiratory and critical care medicine senior consultant at Tan Tock Seng Hospital.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">He noted that surgical face masks \u2013 which serve primarily to\u00a0prevent the spread of infectious diseases \u2013 provide only limited protection against finer air pollution\u00a0particles and generally do not provide sufficient protection during significant haze episodes.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">Similarly, cloth or reusable masks have limited effectiveness against PM2.5 unless specifically designed and certified for particulate filtration.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">In a 2016 advisory, MOH noted that while surgical masks are not effective in filtering haze particles, they can reduce some discomfort caused by the haze, by preventing larger irritant particles from entering the user\u2019s nose and mouth.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"font-primary-headline-md-semibold\" data-testid=\"article-subhead-test-id\">What masks can younger children wear? The N95 masks are too big for them.<\/h2>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">There are currently no international certification standards for the use of N95 masks in children, MOH noted in guidelines updated on Oct 15.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">The<!-- --> Health Sciences Authority notes that children should not use adult-sized masks or respirators, which may not fit properly and thus may not provide adequate protection. They should instead use those specifically sized for children where possible.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">MOH advised that children without heart or lung conditions can use the AIR+ Smart Mask, which comes in smaller sizes suitable for children aged seven and older, and includes a built-in valve for greater breathing comfort.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">There are also KF94 and KN95 masks for children, available on e-commerce sites such as Amazon and Shopee as at Oct 16.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"font-primary-headline-md-semibold\" data-testid=\"article-subhead-test-id\">When should I use an N95 mask?<\/h2>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">Vulnerable people \u2013 which include the elderly, pregnant women and those with chronic heart or lung disease\u00a0\u2013 should wear a mask to reduce exposure when the PM2.5 reading exceeds 150, in the high and very high ranges.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">\u201cIndividuals with underlying heart or lung conditions who experience\u00a0discomfort, breathlessness, dizziness or other symptoms while wearing N95 masks should seek medical advice,\u201d <!-- -->TTSH\u2019s Tan said.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">Under MOH guidelines, for healthy individuals, N95 or equivalent masks are not necessary when the hourly PM2.5 reading is under 250 and they are going outdoors for short periods, such as when commuting from home to school or work.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">The ministry also notes that masks are not required in an indoor environment.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">In situations where outdoor exposure cannot be avoided \u2013 in particular when you are outside for extended periods or when performing strenuous activities that increase\u00a0breathing or heart rate \u2013 N95 masks or their equivalents are recommended, said Tan.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">\u201cThere is no specific duration that defines \u2018extended\u2019 exposure, as<!-- --> health risks depend<!-- --> on the level of air pollution, intensity of physical activity and individual\u2019s health status,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">\u201cIn general, the longer the exposure, the greater the potential health impact.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">But the use of such masks is recommended for healthy people when the hourly PM2.5 reading exceeds 250, entering the very high range.<\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Singapore haze: Sufficient stock of masks available\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/OBijIB2srBk?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"font-primary-headline-md-semibold\" data-testid=\"article-subhead-test-id\">Can N95 masks be reused multiple times?<\/h2>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">There is no need to replace N95 or equivalent masks <!-- -->every day when using them for protection against the haze, <!-- -->as they can be reused multiple times, said Tan.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">\u201cInstead, users should replace the mask when it becomes damp, dirty, damaged, contaminated or can no longer maintain a good seal against the face,\u201d he said, noting such issues are more likely after prolonged or repeated use.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">Users should check the fit of the mask each time it is worn, examining the nose clip, foam padding and straps. Should these become worn or damaged, the mask should be replaced as they can result in gaps around the face, significantly reducing its protective effects, he said.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">Tan added that masks should also be stored properly between uses, <!-- -->and be kept<!-- --> in a clean, dry place and <!-- -->not be shared with others.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"font-primary-headline-md-semibold\" data-testid=\"article-subhead-test-id\">Where can I get N95 masks?<\/h2>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">N95 masks are available at pharmacies and online marketplaces, though some retailers have <a href=\"https:\/\/www.straitstimes.com\/singapore\/some-retailers-capping-purchases-of-n95-masks-as-haze-drives-surge-in-demand?ref=inline-article\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"gap-x-04 items-center inline text-primary-60 select-auto\" aria-label=\"link\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"custom-link\"><span class=\"inline font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"typography-test-id\">placed restrictions on how many each customer can buy amid rising demand<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">Free packs of two masks can be collected from community clubs across the islandwide for members of the Pioneer Generation and Merdeka Generation, as well as CHAS Orange and Blue card holders, those holding Medical Fee Exemption cards and ComCare Assistance recipients.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">Masks are available via vending machines at selected public transport hubs and social service offices.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">Pregnant women, children aged seven to 16 years old and people with medical conditions such as asthma can collect masks at the CCs, but not at the vending machines, which require NRICs to verify eligibility.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-primary font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-annotation-test-id\">To find out more about where they can collect free N95 masks, residents can go to the HazeMaskGoWhere website at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gowhere.gov.sg\/hazemask\/?ref=inline-article\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"gap-x-04 items-center inline text-primary-60 select-auto\" aria-label=\"link\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"custom-link\"><span class=\"inline font-tertiary-body-baseline-regular\" data-testid=\"typography-test-id\">www.gowhere.gov.sg\/hazemask\/<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"portrait inline-media-wrapper\" style=\"--aspect-article-portrait:1080 \/ 1350\" data-testid=\"inline-media-test-id\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-start relative w-fit\"><picture><source media=\"(max-width: 480px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/straitstimes\/e3468b96ac295346026c170e5e419026ee18afc11b022eebeade881fb11a6454?w=480\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 720px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/straitstimes\/e3468b96ac295346026c170e5e419026ee18afc11b022eebeade881fb11a6454?w=720\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 721px and max-width: 3999px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/straitstimes\/e3468b96ac295346026c170e5e419026ee18afc11b022eebeade881fb11a6454?w=900\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 4000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/straitstimes\/e3468b96ac295346026c170e5e419026ee18afc11b022eebeade881fb11a6454\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/straitstimes\/e3468b96ac295346026c170e5e419026ee18afc11b022eebeade881fb11a6454\" alt=\"\" class=\"aspect-portrait flex items-start shrink-0 portrait article-portrait object-contain mobile:w-auto tablet:w-auto\" data-testid=\"image-test-id\" loading=\"lazy\" fetchpriority=\"auto\"\/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p><br \/>\n<center><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.straitstimes.com\/singapore\/are-two-n95-masks-enough-for-me-this-haze-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Read Full Article At Source <\/a><br \/>\n<center\/><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>SINGAPORE \u2013 When Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) levels in Singapore hit the unhealthy and very unhealthy levels in mid-October, the authorities started distributing free N95&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":93715,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[2611],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-93713","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-buzz-headlines","wpcat-2611-id"],"brizy_media":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/93713","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=93713"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/93713\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/93715"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=93713"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=93713"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=93713"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}