Face masks are one of the most widely used pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) across healthcare, workplaces, public environments, and everyday use. Understanding the differences between mask types helps you choose the right protection for the right situation — whether that’s basic droplet protection, high-filtration respiratory safety, or compliance with medical and industrial standards.
Below, we break down the three main mask types offered by AP Medical Supply, explain how each works, and show when and where to use them.
👉 Browse all face masks:
https://apmedsupply.com/collections/face-masks
1. Disposable 3-Ply Face Mask with Ear Loop (Surgical-Style)
Product:
👉 Disposable 3-Ply Face Mask with Ear Loop, Blue — Case of 20 Boxes x 50 Masks (1,000 masks total)
🔗 https://apmedsupply.com/products/disposable-mask-3-ply-case-20-boxes-of-50-masks
What It Is
Disposable 3-ply face masks are lightweight, breathable masks designed to provide basic barrier protection against respiratory droplets and splashes. They consist of three layers:
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Outer layer — repels fluids
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Middle filter layer — traps particles
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Inner layer — soft and comfortable against skin
Where It’s Used
✔ Medical offices & clinics (non-aerosol procedures)
✔ Patient waiting rooms
✔ Retail or customer-facing environments
✔ Schools, offices, and public spaces
✔ Food service and hospitality
Why Choose This Mask
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Affordable and breathable
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Easy to wear all day
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Great for environments where droplet protection is the priority
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Convenient bulk case for facilities and businesses
2. ALPHAMED KN95 Protective Face Masks
Product:
👉 ALPHAMED KN95 Protective Face Masks — Case of 1080 Masks (36 Boxes x 30 Masks)
🔗 https://apmedsupply.com/products/alphamed-kn95-protective-face-masks-case-of-1080-masks-36-boxes-x-30-masks
What It Is
KN95 masks are high-filtration respirators that meet Chinese standard GB2626-2006/2019, capable of filtering at least 95% of airborne particles when fitted properly. They offer more protection than a basic disposable mask, particularly for smaller particles.
Where It’s Used
✔ Everyday use with enhanced protection
✔ Workplaces with dusty, smoky, or urban pollution
✔ Travel and crowded public settings
✔ Schools, events, and large gatherings
Why Choose This Mask
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High filtration efficiency (~95%)
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Better protection than 3-ply masks for fine particles
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Comfortable ear loop design
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Great balance of protection and breathability
3. Moldex 1500 Series / 1513 N95 Particulate Respirator & Surgical Mask
Product:
👉 Moldex 1500 Series / 1513 N95 Particulate Respirator & Surgical Mask — Case of 160 Masks (8 Boxes x 20 Masks)
🔗 https://apmedsupply.com/products/moldex-1500-series-1513-n95-particulate-respirator-and-surgical-mask-case-of-160-masks-8-boxes-x-20-masks
What It Is
N95 respirators are among the most protective disposable masks available. Certified to filter at least 95% of airborne particles, including very small droplets and fine aerosols, they are widely used in medical and industrial settings.
The Moldex 1500 Series combines:
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NIOSH-approved N95 filtration
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Surgical mask fluid resistance
This makes it suitable for both infection control and particulate protection.
Where It’s Used
✔ Healthcare settings (patient care + procedures)
✔ Industrial environments (dust, fabrication, construction)
✔ Laboratories and research facilities
✔ Any high-exposure or high-risk setting
Why Choose This Mask
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NIOSH-approved N95 performance
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Fluid resistance for surgical environments
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Durable fit and reliable seal
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Ideal for professional settings with stricter safety standards
How These Masks Compare
| Feature | 3-Ply Disposable | KN95 | N95 (Moldex 1500) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Particle Filtration | Moderate | ~95% | ≥95% |
| Cert. Standard | ASTM-style droplet | KN95 (China) | NIOSH N95 (U.S.) |
| Best Use | General use | Enhanced public & workplace | High-risk/medical/industrial |
| Fit | Ear loop | Ear loop | Headband/secure fit |
| Fluid Resistance | Limited | Moderate | High (surgical resistance) |
When to Choose Which Mask
🔹 Everyday Protection (General Public): 3-ply disposable mask
🔹 Enhanced Filtration (Travel, Pollution, Crowds): KN95
🔹 Professional/High-Risk Settings: N95 Moldex
Tips for Proper Mask Use
To ensure your mask works effectively:
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Wear it snugly over nose and mouth
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Avoid touching the outer surface
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Replace when damp, soiled, or after prolonged use
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Combine with hand hygiene and other PPE when appropriate
Why Source Masks from AP Medical Supply
At AP Medical Supply, we understand that each environment has unique protection needs. That’s why we offer:
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Bulk case quantities for organizations
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Trusted medical and industrial-grade products
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Competitive pricing and reliable fulfillment
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PPE solutions that pair seamlessly with gloves and protective apparel
👉 Shop all face masks:
https://apmedsupply.com/collections/face-masks