Editorial Staff
When wearing a mouth and nose mask, it is important to avoid these mistakes
You should avoid these mask errors
The main thing is that your mouth and nose are somehow covered? Not quite. In most cases, medical mouthguards meet all the important criteria, but with a self-made mouth and nose mask important aspects may be missing.
Error 1: The mask has only one layer of fabric
So that as many viruses (included coronavirus) as possible can be filtered, it is important that the mask consists of more than one layer of fabric. Based on some study results, the American “Center for Disease Control” recommends using a tightly woven cotton mask that helps filter particles from the air. Best with an outer and an inner fabric.
Error 2: The mask is too loose
Every mask, whether medical or self-sewn, is only effective if it is sufficiently tight on the face. There should be no larger holes around the mouth and nose. Of course, the mask should not feel uncomfortable when wearing it, but an optimal fit is crucial. Incidentally, a poorly fitting mask is also the reason which is why your glasses fog up. Make sure you wear a mask that has a wire on your nose so you can put the top edge on nicely.
Error 3: The mask does not contain a filter
A filter between the fabric layers of the mask is not absolutely necessary, but advisable. Some medical face masks already have an integrated filter, with self-sewn mouth and nose masks you can put a filter between the layers of fabric. Therefore, when buying or sewing, you should make sure that your mask has a slit. For example, you can insert a coffee filter there.
Mistake 4: You don’t wash the mask regularly
Each mask should be washed or disinfected with heat after each wear. Either put the mask in the washing machine at least 60 degrees (ideally in a laundry net) or iron it over with hot steam.
