Due to recent events, many stores are experiencing a shortage of certain products. Be aware that many retailers may currently be out of stock, have longer shipping times than usual or be charging above-average prices. Remember that stockpiling items isn’t actually necessary right now and that over-buying can leave others vulnerable.
Where to buy N95 Respirator & 3M face masks online in India 2020
What's the difference between these mask types, and where can you buy them?
The World Health Organization’s current advice is that you only need to wear a face mask if you have contracted COVID-19 or are treating someone who is sick. In India it is compulsory to wear face masks in
- Uttar Pradesh
- Dehli
- Maharashtra
- Chandigarh
- Odisha
Here’s what you need to know and where to buy masks.
Right now, N95 and P2 masks are out of stock at many retailers. However, the Chinese standard KN95 mask, which meets similar needs, may be available at some online stores. We’re updating this list regularly to reflect availability, but if you genuinely need a mask it definitely pays to check multiple retailers.
Where to buy face masks online in India
eBay
While longer delivery times may be the case, eBay lets you filter searches by guaranteed delivery date to make sure you can get your order as soon as possible if you’re in a hurry.
- Free delivery on some items with an eBay Plus membership
- Products from local and international sellers
- Easy price comparison
Amazon
Prime members can rely on Amazon for quick and free shipping. With new items added to the site every day, there’s also a higher chance of finding high-demand products, but you’ll want to ensure that you’re buying from a reputable seller.
- Free delivery on some items with an Amazon Prime membership
- Easy price comparison
- See customer ratings before purchasing
AliExpress
AliExpress is a global marketplace with a wide variety of items available from third-party sellers. Note that some buying options may take several weeks to arrive, depending on the country of origin.
- First-purchase coupons available
- Free shipping available on select products
Gearbest
Gearbest is an online store offering discount electronics and gadgets and ships around the world. It has large range of items from leading brands and products for customers to choose from.
- 45 day money back guarantee
- 24/7 live chat available
- Local currency selection available
Banggood
Bangood is an online marketplace offering a variety of items, from household goods, electrical items, clothing, skincare and more.
- Offer a whole range of payment methods
- 30 days no reason returns policy
- Local currency selection available
1MG
From essential PPE and everyday medicines to supplements, personal care products and beyond, you’ll find everything you need to keep your whole household, happy, healthy and well at 1MG. Shop online and access the products you need today without leaving the comfort of your own space.
- Free shipping when you spend Rs. 500 or more
- Download the app and enjoy a convenient on-the-go shopping experience
- Secure online shopping portal
Shopclues
Shoclues is an online retailer which sells 1000’s of items from a range of categories. From fashion, health products, home fitness equipment and more, you’ll be able to find what you need.
- They offer several payment methods, including cash on delivery
- Delivery cost depends on the product and seller
- Easy price comparison
Does your company belong in this list?
If N95 masks are out of stock, can I buy a P2 or KN95 mask?
Yes — but be wary of scams. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic has led to equipment shortages, especially N95 masks. Unscrupulous sellers are selling fakes to try to profit from the situation. 3M, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of masks, offers a tool to check if a product is genuine.
And though the FDA originally left the KN95 off its approved list of respirators in a March 28 statement, it has since approved KN95 masks that meet specific criteria.
You can find P2 and KN95 masks at several retailers on this page.
How an N95 mask is constructed
N95 masks are made of several layers of special non-woven fabric, with a filtration facepiece respirator (FFP) in the middle.
The two outer layers are made from melt-blown fabric, which filters out small airborne particles. Melt-blown fabric is made by melting polypropylene and other similar types of plastics and using a machine to draw the material out into fine strands. As these strands cool next to each other, they bond together to form a solid sheet of melt-blown fabric.
Between these two layers is a layer of no-melt cotton, which absorbs moisture, and the FFP respirator. The respirator component of masks like the N95, FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 set them apart from disposable surgical masks, which do not contain a respirator but still protect the wearer from spreading airborne particles and being exposed to bodily fluids.
How to remove your mask properly
First, wash your hands thoroughly before putting on your mask. When you’re ready to take it off, do not touch the front of the mask — it could be contaminated. Instead, remove the mask by pulling the bottom strap over the back of your head, followed by the top strap. Discard the mask, and then wash your hands.
Frequently asked questions
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