Originally published: Aug 2018
Last reviewed: July 2026
Key points
- Wearing a well-fitting mask can reduce exposure to Aspergillus spores during higher-risk activities.
- FFP2 and FFP3 respirators provide much better protection than cloth face coverings or standard surgical masks.
- The fit of the mask is just as important as the type of mask.
- Masks are most useful for short periods of increased exposure, such as gardening, handling compost or dusty DIY.
- A face mask is only one part of reducing exposure. Ventilation, avoiding unnecessary dust and changing clothes after high-risk activities can also help.
Why might people with aspergillosis wear a face mask?
Aspergillus moulds are common in the environment. Their microscopic spores are present in outdoor and indoor air every day, and for most people they cause no problems.
However, for people living with aspergillosis, severe asthma, bronchiectasis, chronic lung disease or weakened immune systems, breathing in large numbers of fungal spores may increase symptoms or, in some situations, increase the risk of infection.
It is impossible to avoid Aspergillus completely, but reducing exposure during activities that generate large amounts of dust or disturb mouldy material may be helpful.
When is wearing a mask most useful?
You may wish to wear a well-fitting respirator during activities such as:
- gardening, particularly digging or turning soil
- opening bags of compost or potting mix
- leaf clearing
- handling mulch, bark or wood chippings
- cleaning mouldy areas, where appropriate and safe
- DIY projects that create dust
- sweeping sheds, garages or lofts
- visiting farms, stables or grain stores
- construction or demolition work
- working in dusty environments
For some people, avoiding these activities altogether is the safest option. If they cannot be avoided, appropriate respiratory protection may help reduce exposure.
Which type of mask should I choose?
Not all masks provide the same level of protection.
| Mask type | Protection against fungal spores | Recommended? |
|---|---|---|
| Cloth face covering | Low | No |
| Standard surgical mask | Limited | Better than nothing, but not designed for airborne spores |
| FFP2 respirator | Good | Suitable for most situations |
| FFP3 respirator | Excellent | Best disposable option |
| Reusable respirator with P3 filters | Excellent | Useful for frequent or higher-exposure activities |
An FFP2 respirator filters at least 94% of airborne particles when properly fitted.
An FFP3 respirator filters at least 99% of airborne particles and offers the highest level of protection available in disposable masks.
For people who regularly garden or work in dusty environments, a reusable respirator fitted with certified P3 filters may be more comfortable and economical over time.
Fit is just as important as the mask itself
Even the best respirator works poorly if air leaks around the edges.
To improve protection:
- choose the correct size where available
- adjust the nose clip carefully
- tighten the straps so the mask seals comfortably
- ensure the mask covers both your nose and mouth
- check for gaps around the cheeks and chin
- replace disposable masks if they become damp, damaged or difficult to breathe through
Facial hair can prevent a tight seal, reducing the effectiveness of close-fitting respirators.
Valved and non-valved masks
Some respirators have an exhalation valve. Patients often report that these masks feel more comfortable, are less warm and humid, and are less likely to steam up glasses.
A valved FFP2 or FFP3 respirator can help protect the wearer from breathing in dust and fungal spores, provided it fits well. However, the valve allows exhaled air to leave the mask more easily, so it does not filter your breath outwards in the same way as a non-valved mask.
This means valved masks may be useful for gardening, DIY or other mould-exposure activities, but may not be appropriate in healthcare settings or situations where you are trying to reduce the spread of respiratory infections to other people.
Some people also find FFP3 masks harder to breathe through than FFP2 masks because they provide higher filtration. If FFP3 feels too difficult to tolerate, a well-fitting FFP2 respirator may be a more practical option for short, lower-risk activities.
Disposable or reusable?
Disposable FFP2 or FFP3 masks
Advantages:
- lightweight
- convenient
- no maintenance
- widely available
Disadvantages:
- ongoing replacement cost
- more waste
- may not fit every face shape equally well
Reusable respirators
Advantages:
- often provide a better seal
- replaceable filters
- lower long-term cost if used regularly
- less waste
Disadvantages:
- higher initial cost
- require cleaning and maintenance
- bulkier than disposable masks
If you only occasionally garden or carry out DIY, disposable FFP2 or FFP3 masks are usually sufficient. If you need respiratory protection frequently, a reusable respirator may be worth considering.
Are masks uncomfortable?
Many people find respirators take a little time to get used to.
You may notice:
- slightly warmer air inside the mask
- increased humidity
- pressure around the nose
- difficulty wearing glasses without fogging
Taking regular breaks in a safe environment and ensuring a good fit often improves comfort.
Can I wear a mask if I have asthma or bronchiectasis?
Many people with asthma or bronchiectasis can safely wear FFP2 or FFP3 respirators for short periods.
However, masks may feel uncomfortable if you are already very breathless. If wearing a respirator causes significant breathlessness, dizziness or distress, stop the activity, remove the mask in a safe place, and discuss suitable options with your healthcare team.
Other ways to reduce exposure
A mask is only one part of reducing mould exposure.
You may also wish to:
- ask someone else to turn compost or carry out particularly dusty gardening jobs
- wet down dusty materials before moving them, where appropriate
- keep windows closed if neighbours are disturbing large amounts of compost, soil or building dust
- remove outdoor clothing after gardening
- wash your hands after handling soil or compost
- shower and wash your hair after heavy exposure if practical
No mask can eliminate exposure completely, but combining several simple measures can reduce the amount of dust and fungal spores you breathe in.
Where can I buy suitable masks?
Certified FFP2 and FFP3 respirators are widely available from:
- major pharmacies
- builders’ merchants
- DIY retailers
- industrial safety equipment suppliers
- reputable online PPE suppliers
When buying a respirator, look for products that meet recognised UK or European standards and carry appropriate certification markings. Avoid products that make unrealistic claims or do not clearly state their filtration standard.
Frequently asked questions
Is a cloth face covering enough?
No. Cloth face coverings are not designed to filter the tiny airborne particles that include fungal spores.
Is FFP3 better than FFP2?
Yes. FFP3 provides a higher level of filtration, although a well-fitting FFP2 respirator offers good protection for many situations.
Can I reuse disposable masks?
Disposable respirators are designed for limited use. Replace them if they become damp, damaged, dirty or difficult to breathe through. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Should I wear eye protection?
Most people do not need goggles for routine gardening. However, eye protection may be sensible if working in very dusty environments or using power tools.
When should I seek medical advice?
Contact your healthcare team if:
- your respiratory symptoms worsen after heavy mould exposure
- you develop increasing breathlessness, fever or persistent cough
- you notice coughing up blood
- your asthma becomes more difficult to control
- you are unsure whether your work or hobbies are exposing you to excessive mould
Further information
- NHS: Aspergillosis
- Health and Safety Executive: Respiratory Protective Equipment
- Health and Safety Executive: Face fit testing basics
- UKHSA: Damp and mould health risks
