In this series, we will come together to learn more about masks.
Everyone, without a doubt, needs a mask in the pandemic. Worldwide, 172 million people have contracted COVID-19 and 3.69 million have died. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mask should be used as part of a comprehensive strategy of measures to stop viral transmissions and save lives.
These are the topics that we will be covering regarding masks:
- Disposable vs reusable masks
- Different types of disposable masks
- Different types of reusable masks
- Which mask is better for your budget?
- How do I spot a fake disposable mask?
- When should you change your mask?
- How to care for your disposable and reusable masks
- How to put on and remove face masks
Disposable mask and reusables, how are they different?
Disposable masks can only be reused for 4 days (which is not recommended), whereas reusable masks can be reused 15 to 30 times, depending on the mask. The filtration effectiveness of disposable masks can reach up to 95 percent or higher, whereas reusable masks' filtration effectiveness ranges between 50 and 60 percent. Disposable masks are typically made of breathable materials like synthetic or cotton blends, whereas reusable masks are typically made of fabric-like cotton.
Different types of disposable masks
The different types of disposable masks available in the market are N95 mask and 3-ply disposable surgical mask.
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N95 mask (Fit-test required)
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3-ply disposable surgical mask (No fit-test required)
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Different types of reusable masks
The different types of reusable masks available are homemade cloth mask and cloth mask with filter.
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Homemade cloth mask
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Cloth mask with filter
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Which mask is better for your budget?
| Reusable Masks | 3-ply Disposable Masks | N95 Masks |
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-Average price: $10 (1 piece) -Can be reused up to 30 times |
-Average price: $30 (1 box/50 pieces) -1 piece = $0.60 -Can only be used once |
-Average price: $50 (1 box/20 pieces) -1 piece = $2.50 -Can only be used once |
Right off the bat, N95 masks are more expensive as compared to reusable mask and 3-ply disposable masks. Using N95 masks in a long run will break the bank.
Reusable masks may appear to be more expensive than 3-ply disposable masks at first glance. Reusable masks, on the other hand, are less expensive in the long term. Long-term usage of a disposable face mask decreases its effectiveness, necessitating frequent replacement. It also implies paying more money if you change it frequently.
Which mask is the most cost-effective depends entirely on the individual, on how often they go outside, how long they spend there, and what level of protection they require.
How do I spot a fake disposable surgical mask?
Interpol and other law enforcement authorities throughout the world seized 34,000 counterfeit or sub-standard masks sold online in March 2020 alone. According to Interpol, this is simply the tip of the iceberg. Three layers should be present in a real disposable surgical mask.
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Visual A disposable surgical mask has three layers: a waterproof non-woven fabric on the first layer, a melt-blown filter on the second layer, and a non-waterproof non-woven fabric on the third layer.
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Touch The first layer has some electrostatic force, and the filter should be sticky. |
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Breath You will not be able to extinguish the fire no matter how hard you blow on the lighter while wearing a good three-ply disposable mask. Your breath can easily pass through a fake disposable mask to extinguish the fire. This is because the inner filter of the mask should electrostatically absorb droplets from your mouth, preventing them from passing through the layers of a mask.
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Burn Because a disposable mask is made of plastic, the filter will not catch any sparks when lit with fire. Rather than producing sparks, it melts. Fake or low-quality face masks, on the other hand, will catch sparks when lit with fire due to their composition of plastic and paper.
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When should you change your mask?
Reusable masks There are exposed threads, tears, or holes.
The fit is no longer snug.
The fabric has worn thin.
You have exceeded the number of times the reusable mask is meant to be used.
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Disposable masks After using it for 4 hours.
When the mask is dirty or wet.
When the strap has loosened.
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How to care for your reusable and disposable masks
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Never put your face mask under your chin or it will become contaminated with bacteria.
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Do not simply stuff your mask anywhere when storing it for later use while eating out. Instead, fold it in half and place it in a zip lock bag with the contaminated outside inward and against itself.
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Wash and dry your reusable face mask properly to ensure that it remains effective for an extended period of time. It should be washed gently with lukewarm water and air dried. Neither antiseptic detergent nor bleach should be used.
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Reusable masks can be soaked in water for an extended period of time to remove make-up stains. Make-up remover, on the other hand, should not be used in to attempt to remove the stains.
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How to put on and remove face masks
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Step 1: Before putting on the face mask, wash or sanitize your hands.
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Step 2: Hold mask over mouth and nose. Place loops over your ears.
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Step 3: Press on nose bridge to secure mask.
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Step 4: Pull mask to fully cover nose, mouth and chin.
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If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment here!