There are more and more reports and information being released about the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, every single day. Most recently, there has been concern that the virus has the ability to remain airborne. This could mean that the virus can stay suspended in the air space as an aerosol of where an infected person coughed or sneezed.
While preliminary research has shown that there is not a lot of evidence to support that COVID-19 remains airborne, there is some that does. That evidence is enough that the CDC has recommended that people wear non-medical masks where it is harder to social distance. Essential businesses like grocery stores and pharmacies cannot be avoided, but safety can remain a high priority with cloth masks. Special emphasis is placed on cloth masks, or non-medical masks, to be used as a face mask for Coronavirus because medical masks are an essential item and in short supply for many hospitals across the nation.
The best materials
When starting to make your face mask for Coronavirus you are going to want to use the best materials for it. One of the most popular materials going around that people have been using is a bandanna. While bandanas are effective, it is minimal in comparison to other materials.
One study found that the materials used that had blocked the highest percentage of pathogens were furnace filters, vacuum cleaner bags and materials that had a 600 thread count or higher. This means that fabric has a similar consistency and look of flannel. Coffee filter masks worked better than bandanas, but not as well as the other materials.
One quarantine safety tip suggested is to hold your material up against a bright light. If you can easily see and distinguish between the fibers, more than likely the material is not thick enough to be a high quality mask.
How to make your own
You do not have to be a world class seamstress in order to make your own protective face mask for Coronavirus. The CEO and creator of Masks4All shows you a step by step on how to turn an old t-shirt into a protective mask for yourself. All you need is a thicker material t-shirt, a safety pin, a pair of scissors and one of the materials listed above to act as a filter.
If you don’t have any spare t-shirts hanging around, there is a second version that involves using a handkerchief instead. For this one all you would need is a handkerchief, some rubber bands or hair ties and your filter material.
Tips to keep in mind
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Do not use your mask more than necessary. Avoid using it at home and try and reserve it for public places like the grocery store.
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Do not remove your face mask for Coronavirus unless you are in a safe space and able to wash your hands right away.
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When removing your mask, do not touch the front of it where contaminants might be.
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Always remove and change out the filter with each wear.
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When taking off your face mask for Coronavirus, immediately soak it in warm water and soap.
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