I've run out of dust masks, and it's time to buy some more. For a couple years, I've used the 3M ones with the two yellow elastic bands and the aluminum nose clip. There is no exhaust port in front. I think it is #8210Plus. They cost around $1 to $1.25 each, in boxes of 20. I have been satisfied with these-no difficulty breathing, and they are comfortable enough.
I'm thinking of changing to another style, with a rubber mask and replaceable filters. These are more expensive, and I'm wondering if there is an advantage. I'm not talking about a proper respirator, with two cartridges on the sides for fumes and organics, which I use when I spray finishes. For now, I'm just looking for dust masks for sanding and cleaning and other daily use around the shop.
So, what dust masks do you all use? Which are the best?
I like them because I also do air spray painting for autos and other things, currently rebuilding a snowmobile.
If you are in a hot shop you will sweat more, but they filter more dust and finer particles. I still have a box of the disposable ones for when guests come over, but once I got my nice mask I no longer use them.
We got them at HD for about $30 a couple of years ago.
Thanks Rich. I think that's the one I have for spraying finishes. You think I should just use it all the time, for tasks like sanding too? I do like the Darth Vader bit, and I've been known to tell other people in my shop that I am their father while wearing it.
I switched to the Dust Bee Gone dust mask a year or so ago and couldn't be happier (well, really I could but that's another story ). The best thing about it is that my glasses don't fog up. A quick wash now and again and it's just like new.
I just picked up a box of Moldex N100 masks. Comfortable, vented, 30 bucks for a box of 5. Niosh and osha approved whereas Dustbegone is not. And one Dustbegone costs more than a box of Moldex or 3M masks.
Rich and Zuki, I'm having a hard time imagining wearing the big respirator all the time. It's just too heavy and bulky; I might come around to it as the right thing to do, but first I think I'll try something else. Thanks very much for your input.
I am somehow intrigued with the Dust Bee Gone mask. It seems a little on the gadgety/gimmicky side, and I'm skeptical, but it does look lightweight and comfortable. If it works, does its job as a filter, and truly cleans up with a quick washing, it could be a good solution to the problem. It could be cheaper in the long run than any of the ones with disposable filters. Does anyone else have any experience with this?
Ramon, I guess I'm skeptical of the Moldex ones too. They don't look like they would be flexible enough to make a good seal. Plus, they're pretty expensive when compared to other disposables.
I'll be very happy to take more suggestions and opinions.
I understand Mack . . . I felt the same way. However the way I look at it now is that a little inconvenience will pay off 20-25 years in the future. Pls let us know what you finally decide.
I wear a 2 cartridge (vader style) mask nearly EVERY minute in my woodshop. I bought it cause I was getting a sore throat after being in my shop. I didn't like wearing it at first but I couldn't argue with the results and I don't want to come down with an illness some day from the harmful dust. I bought it 2 years ago and I wear it ALL the time. It's just as much a habit for me to put it on as it is to wear my seatbelt now. You will get used to it but it'll take some time. Your health is worth it.
3M respirators are great, the only problem I have with them is my safety glasses don't fit right while I'm wearing it. Does anyone have an answer for this problem?
Oh. Ya that would be a problem. Well I know that the particular brand I bought doesn't have that issue. I have the one with round cartridges. I think the 3M cartridges are triangular.
A automotive painter gave me a case of filters So I picked up a facemask like this. I thought it would be worth a try since I wouldn't have much invested in it. It is lighter than the 3M respirator that I have been using and It does a good job. I have been cutting red cedar in my shop and finishing some pens with CA without any of the odor coming through. If I find a down side to it I'll post it. I'm posting a link with a breakdown on all the applications for anyone that is interested.
I use the DUS-T, they are amazing! if you haven't seem one check out www.thedus-t.com these masks are attached to a shirt so they are always with you. Great idea and reusable so they won't kill you paycheck
I use the AO safety respirator mask all the time (I am very allergic to dust) and I like it well enough. One problem is that the moisture from my breath collects inside the mask and can drip out the exhaust flaps directly on to the wood I am sanding… Great for raising the grain in an irregular pattern if I don't catch it and wipe it right away.
I can wear this mask all day long and it doesn't bother me one bit. The other ones usually end up hurting my nose or fogging up my glasses all the time.
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