I have a mask with a valve (N100) that I was lucky enough to have laying around in the garage that I never used. I agree that the mask doesn't protect anyone from my exhaled breath. I tried putting another triple layered fabric mask over top of it and I could not breath enough to keep from passing out. I have been in my home since day one like everyone else and don't feel I can risk using just a fabric mask instead of the N100 mask that's actually protecting me from getting the virus. I use the mask to go to Walmart and Publix and in most cases I see a lot of shoppers without a mask. I think most stores are moving towards a required mask policy soon.

The fabric masks only help to diffuse a cough or sneeze but don't stop the virus from exiting or entering a person's mouth or nose. A mask with a valve would do a simular job of muffling a cough or sneeze since the air is forced past the valve.

I would gladly wear an N95 mask without a valve if I could find them for sale. Until then I'll keep wearing my N100 with a valve. If I get the virus I'll switch to a fabric mask.