Dust mask recommendations! Hooray!

Todd,

I use the 3M dust mask with replaceable filters:
http://www.jamestowndistributors.com/userportal/show_product.do?pid=4270&familyName=3M+07178+Paint+Spray+Respirator+Kit

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.

They also let you do the Darth Vader impression.

-- Rich, WNY, www.nyrockingchairs.com

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.

-- http://www.mccollister.com/todd

I do, though I have to replace the filters a little more often, about every 6 months depending on how heavy usage it gets.

It also holds your pencils better.

-- Rich, WNY, www.nyrockingchairs.com

I have the same one however my filters are pink. Any large amounts of sanding I pull it on.

-- The significant problems we face cannot be solved by the same level of thinking that created them

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.

http://www.dustbeegone.com/

-- I'm a wood magician... I can turn fine lumber into firewood before your very eyes! - http://www.woodworkersguide.com

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.

Thanks!

-- http://www.mccollister.com/todd

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.

Cheers

-- The significant problems we face cannot be solved by the same level of thinking that created them