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Senior woman against pink background looking straight at camera wearing face mask.
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Staying Safe: How Should I Care for My Masks?

by Jeff Dailey
written by Jeff Dailey

Once you’ve chosen the right type of mask and learned about wearing it properly, check out these simple tips for caring for face masks and ensuring you get the best protection possible from them.

Reusing and Cleaning Masks

Depending on the type of mask and its condition, you may be able to clean, store and use it again.

Cloth face masks should be laundered after every wearing. After carefully removing your mask, place it in your washing machine or an enclosed hamper (then wash your hands). Dry your mask in the dryer or by hanging (in sunlight, if possible, see below). If your cloth mask becomes damaged or develops holes or visible stains, discard it.

Disposable masks (dust masks, surgical masks) made of paper are meant to be used once and discarded. However, if you wear one for only a short time and it’s still clean, you may consider wearing it later the same day. Remove the mask carefully (with clean hands, grasping only the loops or ties) and hang it (ideally near a window or in direct sunlight). Make sure it can’t be touched or fall to the ground.

Filtering/respirator masks can’t be cleaned because they have specialized filters that are damaged by chemicals and agitation. To reuse one of these masks, also known as N95 or KN95 masks, use strict clean-hands techniques and store it carefully in a secure place (also in the sun, if you can).

The Power of UV Light

Did you know that the sun can act as a disinfectant? When it comes to drying your cloth mask or airing out a filtering/respirator mask, hanging it in direct sunlight may help sterilize it. However, be aware that only the areas directly exposed to UV rays are affected, and the more time allowed, the better.

Discarding a Mask

When it’s time to dispose of any face mask, think about safety. Remove it with clean hands, place it in an enclosed trash container (not an open wastebasket) and then wash your hands again.

Get More Helpful Information

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Woman Wearing Face Mask Close Up
Protection Products

Staying Safe: How to Wear Your Face Mask

by Jeff Dailey
written by Jeff Dailey

You’ve chosen the mask you need and now you’re ready to wear it. The way you approach the simple task of putting it on, the things you do (and don’t do) while it’s on your face, and how you remove it will affect the level of protection the mask provides.

Technique Matters

No matter what mask you’re using, a few essential rules always apply.

  • Wash your hands and face before putting on your mask. Touch only the loops or ties and then the sides of the mask, if needed. And when it comes to gloves, don’t put them on until after your mask is securely in place.
  • Proper coverage. Slip on your mask, ensuring it covers your nose and mouth, reaching all the way under your chin. It should fit snugly across the bridge of your nose (preferably with a flexible nose strip), resting smoothly against the sides of your face and around your chin without gaps.
  • Hands off! Now that your mask is in place, avoid touching it as much as you can. You don’t want those gloves you’re using to touch surfaces and handle contaminated items to come in contact with your mask. If you must adjust it, grip the sides of your face mask near your ears.
  • Taking off your mask. You may be in a hurry to unmask but pause to wash your hands first! Once again, reach for the loops or ties and carefully remove the mask.

 

Learn More and Watch a Mask Demonstration

Watch this video to see how to properly put on and wear KN95 respirator filtration masks plus when to use different types of masks. Also read “Staying Safe: How Should I Care for My Masks?” or catch up on the first article in this series, “Staying Safe: Which Mask Should You Choose?”.

 

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Three different protection face masks. Coronavirus prevention.
Protection Products

Staying Safe: Which Mask Should You Choose?

by Jeff Dailey
written by Jeff Dailey

It’s part of our new normal: Face masks, along with social distancing, are recommended for anyone leaving their home. In some places, you’re now required to wear a mask anytime you go out in public.

Three Main Mask Types

Understanding their characteristics is the key to selecting the right mask before you venture out.

Handmade or do-it-yourself masks may be created from almost any cloth, from bandanas, scarves, handkerchiefs to cut-up t-shirts. Tightly woven fabrics are best. Simply fold your material into layers and secure it behind your ears with hair elastics. If you have a sewing machine, find simple patterns online.

Disposable masks, commonly referred to as dusk masks or surgical masks, are made of paper with elastic bands or ties. Some include a nose piece that bends to provide a more secure fit. These are meant for one-time use.

Filtering/respirator masks can provide a higher level of protection from exposure to infectious illness. N95 and KN95 masks get their name from their ability to block at least 95% of particles in FDA tests.

How to Choose

Just like other healthcare items, each face mask has a specific purpose and use.

Are you a senior, a caregiver, or someone at risk? If so, you want a mask designed to help guard you against becoming ill.

  • Select a disposable mask with a flexible nose strip for a close fit. Worn properly, this mask will filter the air coming into your nose and mouth plus reduce the exposure of your respiration to others. It’s important to note that disposable masks should not be re-used.
  • Or choose a filtering/respirator mask which provides more protection. These products are often certified by the FDA or other official agency. And they may be re-used if cared for properly.

 

Are you mostly concerned with protecting yourself and others in social distancing situations?

  • A disposable mask can be a convenient choice; some offer the reassurance of FDA registration.
  • DIY fabric masks are also acceptable for basic protection. Be sure the mask covers your face snugly from above the nose to below the chin, and that you wear a fresh mask each time.

More About Staying Safe

Get more details on the important differences between surgical masks and filtering/respirator masks. Then read “How to Wear Your Face Mask” and “How Should I Care for My Masks?” for little-known facts about how to safely put them on, take them off and maintain your face masks.

 

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