How to Disinfect N95 Mask Effectively and Reuse It?

Common people can wear cloth masks when out on the streets, but medical personnel should wear only N95 masks, which are made of polypropylene fibers. These “melblown” fibers are present in the mask in layers, forming a breathable, porous network. The fibers are electrostatically charged. They can block tiny particles. 

Alas, due to the wonderful protective feature of N95 mask, they are short in supply. That’s the reason only those dealing with Covid-19 patients are advised to wear this mask. The rest can do with simple masks and even a homemade cloth mask. 

When you visit Arlington medical clinic, you can wear a normal mask, N95 is not a must. But, you must wear a mask – that’s important. Doctors at the clinic have appropriate protective gear because they do not know whom they are dealing with in terms of medical illnesses. So, they must take extra care. 

Disposable masks are meant to be disposed in a single use. No further discussion in this. Homemade masks made of cloth can be washed and reused. 

Doctors recommend washing them in hot water that has a temperature above 70 degree Celsius. Coronavirus cannot survive in such a hot temperature, says a doctor. Also, wash it well with soap or detergent. It helps to break the delicate oily lipid and protein outer layer of the virus. The detergent powerfully busts open the layer and renders the virus ineffective. 

That’s the reason doctors worldwide recommend washing hands with soap and water for 20 seconds. You are actually splitting the virus into pieces and draining it away. Now, how good that feels! (The next time you feel lazy washing hands, remember this and you will be motivated for a nice handwash!) 

N95 masks are not meant to be washed with detergent. It can damage their fiber layers, rendering them less effective. 

According to the latest research, heating seems to be a great way to disinfect N95 masks. You must heat it at 185 degrees Fahrenheit for a minimum of 20 minutes. You can reuse the mask about 50 times by heating it in this manner without affecting its filtration capacity. 

N95 masks are high in demand in the medical world due to the growing number of Coronavirus cases, yet their supply is short. That’s why researchers have come up with the idea of disinfecting the masks and reusing it. 

Moreover, a doctor at medical clinic near Arlington can safely reuse the mask because they are not actually treating Covid-19 patients. They are engaged in testing people. 

However, doctors directly involved in treating patients with severe virus cases need to be highly particular in their safety. They may not want to reuse the mask 50 times, but they can still disinfect it and reuse it several times in the wake of the shortage, suggests a medical expert. 

Last but not the least, if you are planning to visit Arlington medical clinic, make sure you put a mask on. It should cover your mouth and nose properly.