BY: Jessica Alldredge
It’s the new normal, masks are everywhere. This is for our protection when we can’t keep six feet of distance between ourselves and other people. With all the different types of masks that have become available, how do you choose and what will protect you the most?
The CDC guidelines state that masks should have two or more layers. Including a filter is also advised but not as necessary as the mask itself. The material should be breathable and fit snug against your face with no gaps. Masks also shouldn’t be vinyl or plastic or include any kind of valves or vents.
So with all this information readily available, let’s figure out what works and what doesn’t.
Best Masks to Choose:
Fabric and Homemade Masks
Also CDC approved and recommended. Fabric masks should have at least two layers to really be effective. Ready-made masks are available in stores like Hobby Lobby and Walmart, or even online independent shops. Always check for the number of layers before you buy. Remember to wash them every day, and rotate between a few different ones to make sure you’re breathing clean air.
If you’re feeling really crafty, you can always pick up a mask-making kit or try to make one yourself. Now’s a great time to learn a new and helpful skill.
The Single-Use Medical Mask
These masks are great and CDC approved. They give you a couple of layers of protection and are reasonably affordable. Unfortunately, good quality is hard to come by. The nose piece might not contour enough to your nose and fog up your glasses. Or the fiber might pull away from the mask causing some nose tickling, or you might even end up eating some of the fibers. They’re also only single use. You’ll need to throw them away at the end of the day and start all over again the next day.
Worst Masks to Choose:
Vinyl or Plastic
These are not recommended. These materials can make it harder for you to breathe, or make you more likely to try and remove your mask more often. While the idea of helping the hearing impaired by allowing them to see your mouth when speaking is very noble, it can be harmful to you if your mask includes plastic or vinyl.
Masks with Valves or Vents
These masks are great to protect you from others but are not CDC approved. The whole idea behind wearing a mask is to protect others from your breathing if you’re carrying anything that could be harmful. Unfortunately, by wearing a valve or vented mask, air particles along with bacteria and saliva can still get out. Sure, they might make you look cool, but wearing one is not advised.
N-95 masks
These high-grade medical masks are not recommended by the CDC. As you probably already know, mask shortages are a thing we need to be conscious of. N-95 medical masks are needed by medical staff and should be reserved for them. They’re coming into more contact with at-risk people than the general public and N-95 masks help to protect those that cannot protect themselves.
Wear your mask properly by making sure it always covers your nose as well as your mouth. Here’s an infographic demonstrating all the ways not to wear your mask.
Bottom line: Be conscious about the mask you choose to wear. Your choice can affect those around you and how we live our lives. For masks to be the most effective, masks should be worn properly. Also, if you’re feeling sick, JUST STAY HOME.
If you have any questions about how to choose a mask or information on how to protect yourself and others from Covid-19, you can always go straight to the source by visiting cdc.gov/coronavirus.