Sanding without a mask? Don't be a fool!

Hey all, just a quick reminder. I see too many folks skipping the respirator when sanding. Even if you're just knocking down some paint, those fine particles are no joke. I've had a nasty cough from forgetting mine once. Don't be like me!

Preach Tim! I always keep a 3M half-face respirator in my toolbox. The disposable masks are ok for quick jobs, but for extended sanding, go with a proper one. Your lungs will thank you. Also, eye pro is a must—flying dust is real.

Good point. I learned the hard way refinishing a Victorian staircase. Spent a week coughing up dust. Now I use a full-face respirator with organic vapor cartridges for paint stripping too. Don't cheap out on PPE.

Thanks guys, I'm new to this. What kind of respirator would you recommend for orbital sanding? I've got a cheap dust mask but it gets hot and foggy. Also, do y'all use a shop vac attachment to cut dust?

@FixItFelix333 For orbital sanding, any N95 or P100 half-mask works. If you want less fogging, get one with an exhale valve. And YES, hook up a vac or dust extractor to your sander—it's night and day for air quality. Some sanders even have a shroud that connects directly.