Surgical face masks have gain popularity since the beginning of 2020, and people are now having them as a daily consumable item. There are some key facts relating to the types, washing frequency, duration of disposability and safe wearing of face masks which everyone must know to use this everyday product without any danger.
Where a mask should be wear?
Wearing a mask doesn’t mean to protect yourself from germs but about reducing the risk to other people by wearing one. The risk in indoors and crowded situations where air is not being filtered out is far more than outdoor if you are staying away from people but again people should wear masks in supermarkets or any place with large crowds.
Which type of mask should be chosen?
Although there are many types of masks available. FFP3 is a respirator and the one which provides maximum protection but production of these masks is difficult so it should be left for the frontline workers only. Other masks with valves or antipollution cycling masks are not considered much effective at stopping the infectious matter from breathing in. So, the cloth masks are fine for public.
How many times a single disposable mask can be put on?
Disposable masks, as the name implies are not supposed to be put on more than once. Disposable masks are basically the surgical mask and not durable with frequent use. A cloth mask, on the other hand, can have a better fit and more absorbent materials, and can be reused as many times as you like. It really is a better approach.
Does expiry date of mask matter?
Except for the patients, expiry dates are not something to create any harm for any one if found in all good condition. If the mask physically looks perfect, then its probably fine to use it beyond expiry date.
Are homemade masks effective?
You can buy lots of ready-made cloth masks now, but there are also tutorials online showing you how to make your own. So whatever, method is applied, a mouth covering should be able to work as a shield against your breathing in and out to stop the receipt and discharge of germs.
What material should be chosen?
Any kind of tightly woven fabric is a good choice. “The more tightly woven, the better.” Using cotton of 600-thread-count is recommended. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises a combination of fabrics, with an inner layer of absorbent fabric (to contain the droplets) and a more waterproof outer layer, such as polyester.
How many layers should your mask have?
The WHO advises a minimum of three, although four layers can be up to seven times more effective than a single bit of fabric but that could reduce breathability so putting something is between two layers of a mask works as a filter and doesn’t affect breathability. For example, a piece of paper towel, coffee filter or any other thin material can be inserted between two layers, which can be disposed off and a new one inserted for the next use.
How to wear surgical mask in best fitting?
There are 3 places to check for the best fitting of surgical mask. one is around your nose. It’s a good idea to use something with a mouldable nosepiece. If your mask doesn’t have one, you can get a paperclip, a pipe cleaner or even just a piece of aluminium foil that you can roll up, attach to the top of your mask and mould to your face.” It should be snug around your chin, and fit well over your cheeks. This is where cloth masks can be quite a lot better than surgical masks.
How to prevent your glasses from steaming up?
This is the most crazy thing for those who wear glasses and the breathe coming out of the mask creates a fog on lenses. One tip is to submerge your glasses in soapy water and then let them dry by themselves, creating a thin anti fog layer on the lenses. “Otherwise, you can play around with where your glasses sit – you can wear them a bit lower over your nose. If you use a moldable nosepiece, you can make a tighter fit [at the top of the mask] so that less air comes out.”
Should you change the mask during the day?
For most of us, one mask a day should be enough but if someone is doing extremely hot work and getting super-sweaty then you should change it as it gets wet and does not remain effective. You shouldn’t wear a damp mask as it may cause skin irritation as well.
How often and how should you wash your mask?
Wash it daily. Yes, it’s good to have a spare mask so you can have one being washed and wear the other one the next day. You can wash your face mask in your usual laundry without separating ti from other clothes. Hand washing every evening is acceptable as long as you use some kind of some that removes the lipid layer that protects the germs.
Who shouldn’t wear a face mask?
With very young children, there are a few exemptions for people with serious health conditions or disabilities and people who assist them. For example, a person with an asthma might feel suffocated while wearing a mash or if you are travelling with someone who relies on lip-reading, you are not required to wear a mask.
