Frequently Asked Questions
Is MyAir new, and where is it made?
MyAir was introduced in 2014, and has been helping people stay healthy and comfortable for years. We are committed to supporting our national & local economy, and proudly make all of our products in the USA.
How long does each replaceable filter last?
MyAir filters are designed for one-time use, which is certainly the safest way to avoid contamination, and what we have to recommend. However, many of our customers do reuse them multiple times (sometimes for many days). Unfortunately it isn’t possible to estimate a number of hours or days because everyone uses them differently and in different environments. Please keep in mind that the filters are very delicate so they won’t hold up for extended use. If the layers begin to separate, it’s time to replace the filter.
Why do filters need to be changed frequently?
For a filter to be effective in blocking airborne viruses and bacteria, it must block down to 0.1 microns. Given all of the contaminants in the air, those micropores will ‘clog up’ over time and the filter will lose its effectiveness. A highly effective filter cannot be worn for more than about 8 hours, or washed because water and soap molecules are much larger than 0.1 microns. So, it’s a bit of a catch 22 – either you have a long lasting filter that can only block large particles (which excludes most pathogens and allergens), or you have an effective filter that must be changed fairly frequently. Please keep in mind that the filters are very delicate so they won’t hold up for extended use, and handling them carefully will help. If the layers begin to separate, it’s time to replace the filter. And while there are ways to make the filters more robust, that would only encourage over-use of the filters which would be a huge disservice to customers who thought they were being protected but were wearing an ineffective filter.
With that said, there are a few tips that help get the best wear time. Friction in any direction will cause the layers to start separating prematurely, so make sure that when you put the mask on or take it off you are not pulling the mask up or down on your face. When you put the mask on, place it directly on your face and to take it off, pull it straight away from your face. Most important, make sure that when you apply the filter to the mask you press straight down gently, without running your fingers along the top which can put stress on the outer layer of the filter.
How do I buy replaceable filters?
Replacement filters for the MyAir Comfort Mask are available in a 10-packs on our website, ellessco.com/store. Replacement filters are also available on Amazon.com
How do MyAir masks compare to N95, N99 and P95 masks?
MyAir filters block 99.997% of all airborne bacteria, viruses, allergens & contaminants down to 0.1 microns. The filters are BFE 99.99%, and actually exceed the filtration standards of N99. However, N99 & N95 refer to a specific rating and approval process by a division of the CDC (NIOSH), and only filter down to 0.3 microns. To be approved, the product must also have a complete seal to the face, which is why it’s defined as a respirator, and it requires fit testing, seal testing, and a whole host of other tests. Our filters block particles down to 0.1 microns (99.997% of all airborne viruses and bacteria) and have an exceptional rate of airflow, but our mask does not seal to the face because we wanted to develop a more comfortable product that people would actually wear! Without a tight seal to the face it cannot be rated by NIOSH. Many masks out there claim to be N95 or N99, but don’t seal to the face and haven’t been tested or certified by NIOSH. You can find a list of approved N99 products here: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/topics/respirators/disp_part/n99list1.html
To qualify for a P-95 rating, the mask must be able to also filter gasses (in addition to particulate matter) and be oil proof. Again, these require a full seal to the face.
Do you make children’s sizes?
We make only one size that fits most adults, but larger children (around 12+) can wear the mask by twisting the ear loops twice to take up any slack. However, we don’t recommend it for smaller/younger children because if the mask doesn’t fit properly it won’t provide adequate protection.
Will the MyAir Mask block cigarette smoke and/or perfume?
Unfortunately, no. The mask will block airborne particles in cigarette smoke, and may reduce odors, but gases and odors can only be completely blocked by a full respirator. Again, other odors from perfumes, chemicals, garbage smells etc will be reduced, but not eliminated. Depending on your degree of sensitivity, you’re welcome to try one and return it if it doesn’t work for you.
Do you ship to Canada, Europe, Asia and Africa?
Yes. We ship outside the United States via US Postal Service to anywhere in the world. Keep in mind that due to delays in international shipping over which we have no control (this includes customs delays and local postal services), we cannot take responsibility for packages once they leave the United States.
I have a very small (or very large) face – will the MyAir Mask fit me?
The elasticity of the fabric and the twist design enable the mask to conform to many face shapes and sizes. While it can’t fit absolutely everyone perfectly, we’ve found that it fits the vast majority of adults, and even larger children. For small faces, you can twist the ear loops twice instead of once to take up the slack. You’re welcome to try one, and if it doesn’t fit, return it for a full refund of your purchase price.
The chin is really loose, the mask is too close to my eyes and hangs on my face – what’s wrong?
Are you putting the mask straight onto your face, without twisting the ear loops? If the ear loops are not twisted as directed the mask will be too big and baggy, but when put on properly it should fit most adult faces. Please note that if the mask is not fit properly to the face it will not provide adequate protection. Please see the 30 second video here: https://ellessco.com/myair-mask/myair-mask-instructions/
How do you clean the mask?
We recommend hand washing with mild soap and water, and laying flat to dry. Do not put in the dryer. Some customers have told us they toss theirs in the washer in a lingerie bag, but we have no test data to support that.
Can you wash the filters?
No. The filter media is very delicate and the pores are so small that water and soap molecules would actually clog the filter and make it useless. The filters do not need to be disinfected – they are made of materials that are antibacterial/antimicrobial, meaning that germs cannot grow or propagate on the media. Remember, it is not safe to use any liquid cleaners, or heat it in the oven or microwave, or attempt to clean the filters in any way.
What are the mask and filters made of?
The MyAir mask outer sheath is made of a nylon/spandex blend. The filters are made of blended synthetic fibers with a spunbond polypropylene outer layer. They are non-toxic, non-allergenic, anti-bacterial materials that are approved for respiratory medical applications.
Why is the mask so flimsy?
The fabric is very thin by design for comfort and breathability. The heavier the fabric, the more airflow is restricted. We designed the mask to be as thin and light weight as possible to increase airflow, reduce heat buildup, and to minimize that ‘claustrophobic’ feeling.
Why are the edges of the fabric unfinished?
MyAir is made with a specialized sports fabric that will not fray or unravel. The edges are not finished intentionally – we designed the product without seams for comfort on the face and around the ears, and to allow unrestricted stretch.
The filters aren’t sticking to the mask – what’s wrong?
MyAir filters are very delicate and must be handled gently, especially when removing the release paper from the adhesive strip. It’s possible to actually pull the adhesive strip itself off of the filter when lifting the release paper. Make sure to lift the release paper from left to right, and be careful to gently lift only the release paper, leaving the adhesive strip on the filter.
If that isn’t the problem and the adhesive is visible on the filter, there are some other tips that might help. If you haven’t already done so, wash the mask to make sure it is clean. Oils, dust and lint can interfere with the adhesive. Make sure that the adhesive strip doesn’t come in contact with any oils or dust before you apply the filter. Wash your hands first to make sure there’s no lotion or oils on your skin. Also, it wouldn’t hurt to use a lint roller on the nose piece of the mask itself (if there’s any dust or lint) before applying the filter.
How do I sterilize or disinfect the mask?
According to epidemiology experts, viruses do not survive washing in water that is at least 80 degrees and thoroughly dried. The mask sheath should be washed with mild soap and dried thoroughly, but do NOT use bleach, Lysol, chemicals or microwaving, which are dangerous and unnecessary. The filters do not need to be disinfected – they are made of materials that are antibacterial/antimicrobial, meaning that germs cannot grow or propagate on the media. Remember, it is not safe to use any liquid cleaners, or heat it in the oven or microwave, and even soap & water will clog the micropores making the filters useless.