Whether we like it or not, face masks have become a necessity. One can think of it as the new go-to accessories, but they also represent a layer of protection to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, as well as any other infectious diseases that are airborne.
Wearing a mask when you go out in public prevents your respiratory droplets from spreading in the air, but it also serves as a shield to prevent you from touching your mouth or nose with dirty hands. This limits the possibility of you or those around you getting the virus.
Surgical masks have been in shortage ever since the beginning of the pandemic, which is why they are better left for those in medical settings. Reusable cotton face masks can do the job just as well, plus they are good for the environment.
Here is how to properly choose, wear and clean a cotton face mask, to ensure it provides the same levels of protection every time you use it.
How to choose a mask
A simple online search will reveal thousands of mask options, but how do you know which one to choose? Consider organic cotton face masks, as they are made out of natural materials, allowing you to breathe easily and preventing moisture from forming inside the mask.
Make sure the mask fits snuggly over your face, allowing for easy breathing, but also ensuring it does not leave openings on the side of your face. If necessary, adjust ear bans or choose a mask with trying straps, which can be easily adjustable.
It is recommended you wash your face mask before the first use, to ensure it stays clean of bacteria and dirt.
How to properly wear a face mask
If purchasing a mask is easy, wearing it correctly is where most people struggle. Your mask should always cover your nose, mouth and chin, otherwise it is useless. Respiratory droplets don’t discriminate between mouths and noses, so only covering one of the two is like not wearing a mask at all.
Wash your hands before you put on your face mask, or use sanitizer to ensure your hands are clean. Only hold the mask by the straps, to avoid transferring any kind of bacteria onto the fabric. Check that you mask properly covers your nose and mouth, and don’t forget to pinch the metal nose clip to ensure you get a snug fit.
How to clean a cotton face mask
Cotton face masks are reusable, but this means you need to clean them on a regular basis. Worry not, because it’s not more complicated than washing your laundry. All you need to ensure of is that you use the highest possible water temperature suitable for this fabric. Some masks require air drying, so make sure you check before putting them in the dryer.
If you want to wash it by hand, make sure you use a sanitizer, such as bleach, to clean it. Because you won’t be using very hot water, you need to ensure germs are killed in a way, and sanitizers are the best method to do so.
