'I'm looking for a sturdy, perferably airtight, locker for dust masks. I keep some dusk masks in my (backpack) kit, and so they need to resist crushing and be as small as possible while still doing the job.

Why dust masks? Here in Seattle we have possibilities of earthquakes and I work downtown. I suspect it would be quite the mess. Also, there are the possibilities of volcanic outbursts here (Rainier, St Helens, etc). And of course, everyone recalls the footage of 9/11.

I've tried various tupperware type containers which seem like they would be optimal, but I haven't found an optimal size. Either they are too big and heavy, or too small.

I also have found some actual mask lockers, but I can't tell how sturdy they are. Certainly they don't appear to be airtight.

Moldex Locker

Same one? Looks different

Thanks,

-john

Not an exact answer, but instead of the round dust masks, I have ear-loop face masks. They store flat, and maybe cost $10-$15 for a pack of 50 at your local medical supply store.

I also keep an extra large red bandana with them as backup.

What about those new 1 1/2 cup Ziplock bowls? They seem about the right size and they are round.

Or maybe you could use a tupperware container just big enough to store your goggles as well as the dust masks, and ball up a bandanna behind them to keep shape. Keep a pair of ear plugs in there as well?

Just some random thoughts.

I use the flat type masks also in mine and my wife's car kits.

Ditto for me on the flat type.

The ones I carry in my site pack come bagged in quantities of 5 per bag. I leave the bag sealed and put it in my pack. Keep them in a pocket away from any heavier items and at least a couple should survive in good condition being carried this way. The benefits are that you don't incur added expense/weight of a container and you have 5 masks that could all be used in a pinch if you need them. Unused masks can be resealed in a carefully opened plastic bag for future needs.

Check out these masks. They are shaped like those found at hardware stores, but can be folded flat for easier storing. Plus, they protect against more than just dust.

http://www.countycomm.com/PROTECTIVEMASK.htm

Thanks for feedback everyone.

It isn't perfect, but here is what I ended up doing:

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It is pretty light, and fairly sturdy. I still have to bag the masks. I figure this could double as a water bowl for my dog, etc.

-john

Does anyone know the correct description or specification of these "flat-foldable" masks?

thanks
Molf

There are a few brands.

Drager Piccola FFP1/FFP2/FFP3 is one of these fold flat masks. For just dust alone FFP1 is adequate. For TB, SARS, FFP3 is best.

One of the site selling these masks found after a quick google search here

This is the folding mask that I use and that is also where I got it.