With the flu season in full swing, it's important to take every precaution to protect yourself from the virus. One way you can do that is by wearing a disposable face mask when you're outside.

However, not all face masks are created equal – so what do you need to look for when buying one? In this article, we'll give you tips to help you choose the best mask for your needs.

There are a variety of disposable face masks on the market, each with its own unique features. Before you purchase one, be sure to research the specific mask you're interested in so that you can choose the best option for your needs.

Here are some of the most common types of disposable face masks:

N95 masks are designed to protect against 95% of airborne particles and gases. They come in two variations: standard and high-efficiency.

The standard N95 mask filters out larger particles but may not be as effective at protecting against certain gases, such as sulfur dioxide. The high-efficiency N95 mask is made from stricter materials and filters out more than 99% of particles and gases.

Cotton masks work by absorbing sweat and other oils from your face, which helps to prevent contaminants from entering your nose and mouth.

These masks typically come in packs of three or six and should be replaced every three hours or when they become saturated with sweat or oil.

Rubber masks are made from a soft rubber material that stretches to fit over your head like a cap. They are effective at filtering out large particulates but do not offer much protection against gas exposure.

Rubber masks must be replaced after 30 minutes or when they become saturated with sweat or oil.