Anyone using respirators for orbital sanding? Dust is killing me

I’ve been doing a lot of drywall sanding lately with my new Dewalt orbital, and even with a shop vac hooked up, the fine dust is brutal. I’m coughing like crazy after an hour. What respirator do you guys use? I’ve got a cheap paper mask, but it’s not cutting it.

Paul, ditch the paper mask. Grab a half-face respirator with P100 filters. I use the 3M 6502QL, comfortable all day and seals well. Also make sure your sander has a good dust port - I added a Dust Deputy to my vac and it made a huge difference.

Yeah, P100 is the way to go. I got a Miller respirator that folds flat, great for storage. Pro tip: if you get a silicone one, it seals way better and doesn't irritate your skin. I also wear safety goggles because that fine dust gets in your eyes too.

I second the P100 filters. Another thing - check for a tight seal by covering the filters and breathing in. If the mask collapses, you're good. I also use a box fan with a furnace filter in the window when I'm sanding indoors. Helps clear the air.

Thanks guys! Going to grab a 3M with P100s today. The box fan idea is smart too, my garage gets hazy real fast. Appreciate it!