How to Wash Cloth Face Masks?
Did you know that 72% of people still plan to continue mask use after the pandemic has subsided?
Even if you don't fall into this group, you likely are still trying to keep yourself and others safe and comfortable with the use of masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you're someone that wants to switch to cloth face masks from disposable ones, you're in the right place. We are going to break down what you should know before you use cloth face masks to help you remain safe.
Keep reading to learn more before you get cloth face masks of your own.
Benefits of Using Cloth Face Masks
A lot of people originally think of surgical or disposable masks when they first think of a face mask, but cloth masks have become more and more popular throughout the pandemic.
If you remember, many of the KN95 face masks were not available to the general public when the pandemic started. Even healthcare workers were having issues accessing them for use in their clinics and facilities.
Many people turned to cloth masks as an alternative to make sure that they were able to protect themselves and others from the coronavirus. You can buy cloth masks to use over and over again as well, which makes them an eco-friendly and wallet-friendly choice.
You can even add filters to your cloth masks. As a result, they become even safer to use and help you feel comfortable when you're out around others. These need to be replaced every few days but are a great solution for people that are still on the fence about cloth masks.
Knowing how to properly wash and care for your reusable face masks, which we will cover below, is crucial to ensure they're effective for the intended purpose.
Aside from these general benefits, the main benefit of a cloth mask is that it will trap your respiratory droplets to avoid spreading disease (including COVID-19).
Wearing a Cloth Face Mask Correctly
Before you put on your face mask, you must wash your hands with soap and water. If these things are not accessible, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is a handy alternative.
Take the mask by the straps and place it over your nose and mouth. Gently pull the bottom of the mask to cover your chin. If needed, you can also touch the very top of the mask to pull it completely over your nose and secure it there.
You'll want to ensure that the mask is snug against both sides of your face as well but also that you can still breathe easily.
When the mask is on, don't touch it. You shouldn't pull the mask down over your chin or neck either.
If you need to remove the mask to eat or drink, simply pull it off by the straps around your ears and place it in a paper bag with the contaminated side out. Be careful to only touch the straps when touching the mask.
When you're done with the mask, you should wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
How to Wash a Cloth Face Mask?
Remember that these rules only apply to cloth face masks. Disposable face masks should be disposed of after a single use.
To wash your cloth mask, you should decide if you want to use a washing machine or wash it by hand. Both of these methods are acceptable.
If you'd like to wash it in a machine, you will want to add your mask in with your pieces of laundry. Simply use your regular laundry detergent and set your washing machine to the right settings based on the instructions on the mask itself. Your mask can also be placed in a dryer if you have one accessible.
To wash it by hand, you'll want to rinse the mask thoroughly with tap water and then scrub it gently with laundry detergent or other soap. Rinse the soap out of the mask thoroughly afterward to make sure it is all removed before setting it aside to dry.
Your cloth mask should be washed after each use. As a result, it is advisable to buy multiple masks so that you have one available at all times.
If your mask becomes wet or gets liquid on it (such as makeup, saliva, or sweat), you will want to wash it as soon as possible to avoid mold.
Taking Care of Your Reusable Face Masks
The main thing to remember is that your face mask should be washed after each time you wear it. This will prevent the germs, bacteria, and viruses that have accumulated on it from getting onto your hands, face, or areas around your home.
Another thing to remember is that your face mask needs to be stored correctly. Always keep it in a safe place where it won't be contaminated or get dirty.
If possible, it's best to store it in a container with a lid so that it is protected. This will create a clean and dry environment for the mask to be safe in until you're ready to use it.
Taking care of a reusable face mask is easy. As long as you're washing it regularly after each use and storing it correctly, you shouldn't have any issues.
Are You Interested in Getting Fabric Masks?
As you can see, cloth face masks are a great option for anyone that wants to keep themselves and those around them safe during this pandemic.
You may be interested in getting your own cloth masks to replace disposable masks that you have to continuously replace. Luckily, we have a great selection for you to choose from regardless of your personal style!
If you want to get some cloth face masks of your own, shop our collection today.
