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How do you feel about the TOTOBOBO mask?

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totobobo

unread,
Feb 27, 2008, 9:19:25 AM2/27/08
to
Two weeks ago we post an announcement to offer free TOTOBOBO mask
trial.
http://groups.google.com/group/rec.crafts.woodturning/browse_thread/thread/cd6ec1e6b7cb4877/30c802cfa3caed0d#30c802cfa3caed0d

May I invite those who received the mask post their feedbacks here, so
that everyone can learn from your experience.

Thanks in advance and safe turning.

Francis

JD

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Feb 27, 2008, 9:23:06 AM2/27/08
to
It's comfortable to wear, but I can't say I've turned much since
receiving it. It's a little aggravating to put on and at times I
didn't get a good seal around my nose which caused my glasses to fog.

JD

dumper

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Feb 27, 2008, 10:16:16 AM2/27/08
to

JD, Thanks for your quick response. We did put a lot of effort to
customize the material so that it feel very comfortable to wear.
I agree it is not immediately clear how to put it on, because it is
different from the normal approach. However, once learn, it is quite
easy to do it again.
If anyone need a bit of help, please refer to the demo page on our
site:
There are step by step illustrations and a short video at the bottom
of the page.
http://totobobo.com/demo.html

totobobo

unread,
Feb 27, 2008, 11:33:06 AM2/27/08
to
On Feb 27, 10:23 pm, JD <james.smi...@wku.edu> wrote:
>...at times I

> didn't get a good seal around my nose which caused my glasses to fog.

For most cases, adjusting the position of the mask (higher or lower)
and the tension of the strap (upper part, lower part) will help to
solve the issue of air leak around the nose bridge. If the leak
persist, it is possible to trim a small portion of the mask to make a
customized fit. Since this is a reusable mask, such customization only
need to do once, if it is ever needed.

If you want to get more detail instruction please send your request
directly to me.

Michael Latcha

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Feb 27, 2008, 12:16:12 PM2/27/08
to
I like the Totobobo mask. I have a full beard, so getting a decent seal is
a hit-or-miss thing (never completely sealing with anything short of a
helmet), and the fit/seal also changes depending on how long it's been since
I've trimmed. The mask certainly is comfortable, easy to get on and off.
It rode a little high for my glasses, but is easily trimmed. I question how
long the strap (silicone?) will last, it is awfully thin. I haven't done
any power sanding since using it, so I can't give you feedback on how it
works, or how fast the filters last, in a room full of dust, but it works
fine around the bandsaw and general turning/sanding.

Overall, I like. I have a feeling that I'll order replacement filters... I
guess that's the ultimate recommendation.

Michael Latcha - at home in Redford, MI

"totobobo" <totobo...@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:26460b5b-1574-4860...@o77g2000hsf.googlegroups.com...

Leo Lichtman

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Feb 27, 2008, 12:57:29 PM2/27/08
to

"totobobo" wrote: (clip)I invite those who received the mask post their
feedbacks here, (clip)
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
The mask is very comfortable. I think I am getting a good seal, because the
material is flexible and clingy. Unlike some other masks the back pressure
while breathing is not noticeable. I think this contributes to the quality
of the seal--less pressure, less leakage.

I viewed the video a while back, about putting the thing on, and it looked
easy. When the mask came, for the life of me, I couldn't figure it out.
Fortunately, the website is molded right into the mask, so I didn't have a
problem viewing the video again, and voila, it *IS* easy--just not obvious.


totobobo

unread,
Feb 27, 2008, 3:27:34 PM2/27/08
to
On Feb 28, 1:16 am, "Michael Latcha" <mlat...@twmi.rr.com> wrote:
> I question how
> long the strap (silicone?) will last, it is awfully thin.
> (Clip)

The strap, although thin, can last for very long. It can be extended
to 4 times it's own length and has been tested for repeat extension
for over 8000 times.
It should last at least as long as the mask. Most important thing is
that you should feel comfortable with the wear and not over stretch it
when putting it on.

> Overall, I like. I have a feeling that I'll order replacement filters... I
> guess that's the ultimate recommendation.

Thanks Michael, for your ultimate recommendation : )
I expect our US shop should be up soon. Come visit the following link
when you need replacement filters.
http://totobobo.com/buy_USA_CA.html


totobobo

unread,
Feb 27, 2008, 3:39:45 PM2/27/08
to
On Feb 28, 1:57 am, "Leo Lichtman" <l.licht...@worldnet.att.net>
wrote:

> material is flexible and clingy. Unlike some other masks the back pressure
> while breathing is not noticeable. I think this contributes to the quality
> of the seal--less pressure, less leakage.
> (Clip)

You are right Leo, this is one of the essential element of the
TOTOBOBO patented : more flexible body >> less pressure needed >> more
comfortable.
We did put a lot of effort to obtain the perfect blend of ingredient
to achieve the desired material property.

Larry Blanchard

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Feb 27, 2008, 4:15:01 PM2/27/08
to

I didn't get one as I'm still happy with my Dust-Be-Gone that I'm still
using after 15+ years.

I'd be interested in a comparison by someone who's used both.

mcs...@gmail.com

unread,
Feb 29, 2008, 6:41:56 AM2/29/08
to
On Feb 27, 9:19 am, totobobo <totobobom...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Two weeks ago we post an announcement to offer free TOTOBOBO mask
> trial.http://groups.google.com/group/rec.crafts.woodturning/browse_thread/t...

>
> May I invite those who received the mask post their feedbacks here, so
> that everyone can learn from your experience.
>
> Thanks in advance and safe turning.
>
> Francis

I like the overall design of the product. I do have the same issue
with not always getting a good seal. I have also noticed that the
filters will have to be switched on a regular basis when turning.
You can look at the filter media and see how much it is keeping out of
your lungs. Overall I am happy with it for turning. I haven't used it
yet when cutting on the tablesaw, primarily because I just acquired
one. I will post once I start doing a lot of cutting.

Andy K.

totobobo

unread,
Feb 29, 2008, 11:50:12 AM2/29/08
to
On Feb 29, 7:41 pm, mcse...@gmail.com wrote:
> You can look at the filter media and see how much it is keeping out of
> your lungs.

The filter media is charged with electro-static. It filter large
particle mechanically and attract&arrest smaller particle by
electrostatic force.
Take a look at these filters from India, is it comparable to yours?
http://totobobo.com/testimonial.html

You'll need to change the filter when you start to feel more difficult
to breathe. Higher breathing resistance is a sign of filter blockage
due to excessive particle load.

mac davis

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Feb 29, 2008, 1:03:44 PM2/29/08
to
On Fri, 29 Feb 2008 08:50:12 -0800 (PST), totobobo <totobo...@gmail.com>
wrote:

I haven't tried the mask, but have to mention that I've very impressed with your
participation in this newsgroup and fast response to users questions..
Very impressive support and customer service, I hope you do well with your
product..


mac

Please remove splinters before emailing

Leo Lichtman

unread,
Feb 29, 2008, 3:07:10 PM2/29/08
to

"mac davis" wrote: I haven't tried the mask, but have to mention that I've
very impressed with your
> participation in this newsgroup and fast response to users questions..
> Very impressive support and customer service, I hope you do well with your
> product..
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
This includes frank discussion of criticism, as well--very unusual.


totobobo

unread,
Feb 29, 2008, 5:18:47 PM2/29/08
to

mac davis/Leo Lichtman

Thanks for your kind words and encouragement.
We won't have a chance to perform if not for the great participation
of you guys from this group.
Thanks to you all : )

toolman946 via CraftKB.com

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Mar 1, 2008, 12:16:45 AM3/1/08
to
>totobobo wrote:

>Thanks for your kind words and encouragement.
>We won't have a chance to perform if not for the great participation
>of you guys from this group.
>Thanks to you all : )

I just discovered your product through this forum so I missed the opportunity
to try one. I'm wondering what cold weather testing results you might have.
I'd be interested in purchasing your mask when it's available for sale but
I'd like to know how it performs in a cold climate (maintaining a seal once
established). I live in Manitoba, Canada where we experience sub zero
temperatures for a good part of the year and I have occasions when I would
wear it outdoors.

I appreciate any comments you may have.

Michael

--
Message posted via CraftKB.com
http://www.craftkb.com/Uwe/Forums.aspx/woodturning/200803/1

totobobo

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Mar 1, 2008, 5:49:01 AM3/1/08
to
On Mar 1, 1:16 pm, "toolman946 via CraftKB.com" <u40139@uwe> wrote:
> I'd like to know how it performs in a cold climate (maintaining a seal once
> established). I live in Manitoba, Canada where we experience sub zero
> temperatures for a good part of the year and I have occasions when I would
> wear it outdoors.
> I appreciate any comments you may have.
> Michael

Hi Michael,

Thanks for your interest.
The mask will become less soft at sub-zero temperature, although it
remain flexible, just not as soft.
We have not "life-tested" the mask in the sub zero weather condition.
Therefore we are very interested to hear from your use experience.
Please forward your address to totobobomask (at) gmail.com so that I
can arrange a mask for you to test.

Francis


Duncan Hoyle

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Mar 1, 2008, 9:58:33 AM3/1/08
to

> Two weeks ago we post an announcement to offer free TOTOBOBO mask
> trial.
> http://groups.google.com/group/rec.crafts.woodturning/browse_thread/t...
>
> May I invite those who received the mask post their feedbacks here, so
> that everyone can learn from your experience.
>
> Thanks in advance and safe turning.
>
> Francis

Once adjusted for correct fit I found the mask to be very comfortable. I
can get a good seal round my face and shortish beard, and the seal
appears to be sufficient as I haven't detected dust getting through.
I would prefer the size adjustment to be easier to do with the mask in
place on the face, but as this only needs to be done when first worn
this isn't really that important.

The filters are becoming dust filled so must be doing their work, and if
I blow my nose after turning there's no evidence of dust.

The only problem I've found is the tendency of the mask to mist up the
lower portion of my face shield. The only way I see of getting round
this is to put some sort of deflector over the filter which directs
exhaled air down away from the filter.
It will be interesting to see how the misting problem changes when the
weather changes. At the moment the workshop is around 14 degrees C

So far I've only used it for turning (with tools and sanding) and a
small amount of bandsawing and I like the mask a lot.

Duncan

totobobo

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Mar 1, 2008, 11:14:36 AM3/1/08
to
On Mar 1, 10:58 pm, Duncan Hoyle <duncanREM...@CAPITALjuggler.net>
wrote:

> The only problem I've found is the tendency of the mask to mist up the
> lower portion of my face shield.

Try to breathe in with the mouth and breathe out with the nose.
Reasons being, the faster breathe in through the mouth helps to dry up
the air within the mask. While the air breathe out through the nose
carry less water (mist).

One more tip, this one is more tricky and may involve trimming the
mask, but the result (extra comfort) will be worth it:
Adjust the strap so that it is just sufficient force to hold the mask
on your face and a little extra for the seal. As you breathe out, the
positive pressure allow the air/moisture exit easily from the side/
bottom of the mask. As you breathe in, the negative pressure causes
the seal to close.
This is possible because the strap is not tight to the edge of the
mask and the edge is free to move with the pressure.

> It will be interesting to see how the misting problem changes when the
> weather changes. At the moment the workshop is around 14 degrees C

I am interested to know too, please keep us post.

> So far I've only used it for turning (with tools and sanding) and a
> small amount of bandsawing and I like the mask a lot.

Thanks for mentioning : )

totobobo

unread,
Mar 1, 2008, 11:14:49 AM3/1/08
to
On Mar 1, 10:58 pm, Duncan Hoyle <duncanREM...@CAPITALjuggler.net>
wrote:
> The only problem I've found is the tendency of the mask to mist up the
> lower portion of my face shield.

Try to breathe in with the mouth and breathe out with the nose.


Reasons being, the faster breathe in through the mouth helps to dry up
the air within the mask. While the air breathe out through the nose
carry less water (mist).

One more tip, this one is more tricky and may involve trimming the
mask, but the result (extra comfort) will be worth it:
Adjust the strap so that it is just sufficient force to hold the mask
on your face and a little extra for the seal. As you breathe out, the
positive pressure allow the air/moisture exit easily from the side/
bottom of the mask. As you breathe in, the negative pressure causes
the seal to close.
This is possible because the strap is not tight to the edge of the
mask and the edge is free to move with the pressure.

> It will be interesting to see how the misting problem changes when the


> weather changes. At the moment the workshop is around 14 degrees C

I am interested to know too, please keep us post.

> So far I've only used it for turning (with tools and sanding) and a


> small amount of bandsawing and I like the mask a lot.

Thanks for mentioning : )

totobobo

unread,
Mar 1, 2008, 11:15:16 AM3/1/08
to
On Mar 1, 10:58 pm, Duncan Hoyle <duncanREM...@CAPITALjuggler.net>
wrote:
> The only problem I've found is the tendency of the mask to mist up the
> lower portion of my face shield.

Try to breathe in with the mouth and breathe out with the nose.


Reasons being, the faster breathe in through the mouth helps to dry up
the air within the mask. While the air breathe out through the nose
carry less water (mist).

One more tip, this one is more tricky and may involve trimming the
mask, but the result (extra comfort) will be worth it:
Adjust the strap so that it is just sufficient force to hold the mask
on your face and a little extra for the seal. As you breathe out, the
positive pressure allow the air/moisture exit easily from the side/
bottom of the mask. As you breathe in, the negative pressure causes
the seal to close.
This is possible because the strap is not tight to the edge of the
mask and the edge is free to move with the pressure.

> It will be interesting to see how the misting problem changes when the


> weather changes. At the moment the workshop is around 14 degrees C

I am interested to know too, please keep us post.

> So far I've only used it for turning (with tools and sanding) and a


> small amount of bandsawing and I like the mask a lot.

Thanks for mentioning : )

Kevin Miller

unread,
Mar 1, 2008, 1:48:58 PM3/1/08
to
When you first posted I recall looking at the site, but don't recall it
saying what the filtration levels are. How finely does it filter? IIRC
the particles below .5 micros are the really nasty ones - is it
capturing stuff that finely?

...Kevin
--
Kevin Miller
http://www.alaska.net/~atftb
Juneau, Alaska
Registered Linux User No: 307357, http://counter.li.org

totobobo

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Mar 15, 2008, 6:43:49 AM3/15/08
to
On Mar 2, 2:48 am, Kevin Miller <millerb...@acsalaska.net> wrote:
> When you first posted I recall looking at the site, but don't recall it
> saying what the filtration levels are. How finely does it filter? IIRC
> the particles below .5 micros are the really nasty ones - is it
> capturing stuff that finely?
>
> ...Kevin
> --
> Kevin Millerhttp://www.alaska.net/~atftb

> Juneau, Alaska
> Registered Linux User No: 307357,http://counter.li.org


Sorry for missing your question.

The electro-static charged filter is good to filter fine particles,
including those below 0.5 microns.

Kevin Miller

unread,
Mar 15, 2008, 1:42:47 PM3/15/08
to

Excellent - most face masks don't get that fine, and are consequently
not really of that much protection value.

...Kevin
--
Kevin Miller

toolman946 via CraftKB.com

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Mar 15, 2008, 3:17:28 PM3/15/08
to
>totobobo wrote:
>The electro-static charged filter is good to filter fine particles,
>including those below 0.5 microns.

I wrote to you at the email address you specified and I look forward to
receiving and testing your product.

I've recently been Tig welding sheets of steel coated with a thin layer of
zinc. Noxious fumes result and the respirator I've been wearing is quite
bulky. I'm hoping that your mask may be a comfortable alternative for both
welding and grinding metal, in addition to my woodworking.

Cheers

totobobo

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Mar 18, 2008, 6:19:31 AM3/18/08
to
Hi Michael,

Your mask was sent 2 weeks ago. It can take 2~4 week from Singapore.
Do let us know of your extreme cold-weather experience : )

Best regards,

Francis

huynh.ja...@gmail.com

unread,
Dec 11, 2013, 9:23:52 PM12/11/13
to
Hi Toto,

I just posted on your FB page, and not sure if you're still replying to this thread. I'm having difficulty with fitting...I've tried following the videos but it seems they are specific to the regular type, and I have the earloop kind. Do you have a tutorial video on how to fit the earloop model, or any tips?

So far I'm quite uncomfortable, and obviously don't have a good seal. Please help!

- jacqueline.
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