Question from noel
Can anyone recommend a respirator for me. I am reacting to something in stores, but don’t know what it is. I tried the 3m 8577 mask, but that didn’t work. Thanks
Debra’s Answer
Respirators are a very individual thing. What might work for one person often doesn’t work for another.
Readers, if you want to, go ahead and post respirators you’ve used and liked, but Noel, understand they may or may not work for you.
I’ve found the cotton masks made by “ I Can Breathe” to work well for me.
I think the mask I wear is a 3m 6000 series half-face type respirator mask. It blocks all kinds of smells and has really saved me from having many terrible headaches. I out-gas mine before using to get rid of the new plastic smell. I put a new one in the back of my pickup in the Arizona summer sun for a week to a month and that seems to do the trick for me. The trick is to get one that fits, otherwise outside air finds it’s way in. These masks come in small, medium and large. I bought a medium size from a paint store and found I have to hold my face a certain way to keep it sealed. Maybe this is only because I have a very round oriental shape to my face. I recently purchased, from Amazon, their more expensive silicon model of the same type. I haven’t used it yet — it’s still baking in the heat. However, I did hold my breath and try it on and found it much more comfortable. I ordered a small size and they sent medium but it fits. This mask is superior because when the elastic that holds it on wears out I’ll be able to replace it. Both masks I’ve purchased are washable when the filters are removed, which can be replaced. If I remember correctly, the better mask is just under $50. and the other is either $28. or $32. at Amazon. They look awful but I’ve grown accustomed to the occasional stare. Most people are more polite. It takes a little getting used to, however, for me wearing my mask has really been worth it.