Washable face mask as an alternative for disposable mask

by Vivek Choudhary Nice life

Celebrities and influencers are joining the #MaskingForAFriend campaign to encourage wearing masks to protect others.

Other countries have been embracing face masks in public for several years.

Just like sunglasses and hats evolved from sun protection to fashion accessories, masks may do the same.

All data and statistics are based on publicly available data at the time of publication. Some information may be out of date. 

The coronavirus outbreak commenced at the end of 2019 has led to a dramatic increase in the demand for face masks. In countries experiencing a shortage of cotton face mask due to panic buying or inadequate supply, reusable fabric masks have become a popular option because they are often considered more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than disposable medical masks.

Nevertheless, there remains a significant variation in existing face masks' quality and performance; not all can simultaneously protect against the extremely contagious virus and be comfortable to wear. This study examines the influential factors that affect washable face mask comfort but does not assess the antimicrobial or antiviral potential. In this study, seven types of masks were selected and subjected to air and water vapor permeability testing, thermal conductivity testing, and a wear trial.

The results indicate that washable face masks made of thin layers of knitted fabric with low density and a porous filter are breathable. Additionally, masks that contain sufficient highly thermally conductive materials and have good water vapor permeability are often more comfortable to wear as they can transfer heat and moisture from the body quickly and thus do not easily dampen and deteriorate.

The most environmentally-friendly option is a reusable cloth mask. Although, any mask is better than no mask.

You should always wash your washable cotton dust proof face mask after each time you use it.

What you need to know

A reusable cloth mask should:

·         fit securely around your face

·         cover your nose and mouth

·         Be made from washable fabric with three layers.

It’s good to have a few because they have to be washed after every use and must be completely dry before reuse.

Make your own

If you have old clothing or left over material lying around your home, use it to make a reusable cloth mask.

In areas where the virus is circulating, masks should be worn when you’re in crowded settings, where you can’t be at least 1 meter from others, and in rooms with poor or unknown ventilation. It’s not always easy to determine the quality of ventilation, which depends on the rate of air change, recirculation, and fresh outdoor air. So if you have any doubts, it’s safer to wear a mask.

You should always clean your hands before and after using a mask and before touching it while wearing it.

While wearing a mask, you should still keep physical distance from others as much as possible. Wearing a mask does not mean you can have close contact with people.

For indoor public settings such as busy shopping centers, religious buildings, restaurants, schools, and public transport, you should wear a mask if you cannot maintain a physical distance from others.

If a visitor comes to your home who is not a household member, wear a face mask with filter if you cannot maintain a physical distance or inadequate ventilation.

When outside, wear a mask if you cannot maintain physical distance from others. Some examples are busy markets, crowded streets, and bus stops.

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Created on Feb 1st 2021 23:35. Viewed 256 times.

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