Best Masks for Air Pollution 2025: Which Mask Works Best Against Air Pollution? Here’s What Experts Recommend

As the festive glow of Diwali fades, Delhi and several other Indian cities often wake up to thick smog and stinging air. Post-Diwali pollution levels have already started climbing this October, and experts are urging people to protect themselves against harmful particles in the air. While masks have become a part of everyday life since the pandemic, not all of them are effective against pollution. So, which mask should you really be wearing in 2025?

Which Mask Works Best Against Air Pollution?

“Masks are protective coverings worn over the nose and mouth designed to filter out harmful particles and pollutants from the air we breathe,” explains Dr Samir Garde, Director of the Department of Pulmonology and Lung Transplant at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel. “They can be highly effective in protecting against fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other pollutants like allergens, dust, and chemical fumes.”

With countless options in the market, ranging from surgical masks to N95s and fancy cloth designs, it’s important to understand which mask truly works.

Types of Masks and Their Protection Levels

According to Dr Garde, the main types of pollution masks include N95, N99, N100, surgical masks, and cloth masks. “N95 and N99 tend to help with higher filtration,” he says. “Surgical masks protect against large droplets but don’t block fine pollution particles, while cloth masks are only useful for dust.”

Here’s a quick breakdown of their effectiveness against PM2.5 and PM10 particles:

• N95 Masks: Filter about 90% of fine particles
• N99 Masks: Filter up to 99% of fine particles
• N100 Masks: Offer nearly 100% protection
• Surgical & Cloth Masks: Offer only about 40% protection

While N95 masks continue to be the most widely used, many commuters still prefer cloth masks for daily travel. However, Dr Garde advises caution: “Cloth masks may be convenient but they won’t protect you from air pollution. N99 and N100 masks remain the most effective options.”

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How Long Should You Wear a Mask?

Masks can be safely worn for three to four hours at a stretch. “If the mask becomes dirty or damp, it must be replaced immediately,” Dr Garde warns. A wet or reused mask can trap bacteria and worsen allergies or infections.

Can You Reuse Masks?

“It is not advisable to reuse disposable masks,” says Dr Garde. “Cloth masks can be reused, but only if washed properly after every use.” Cleanliness plays a big role in keeping respiratory infections at bay, especially when pollution levels soar.

With air quality dipping rapidly after Diwali, it’s time to prioritise lung health. Whether you commute daily or step out occasionally, investing in a good-quality N99 or N100 mask can make a huge difference. As Dr Garde concludes, “Be attentive to your well-being, don’t compromise when it comes to clean air.”

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Image Courtesy: Freepik