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From April 16, there is an obligation to cover the nose and mouth in public spaces in Poland. Many people choose reusable masks. This means that the mask should be disinfected after use. How to do it so that it retains its properties?
What types of face masks are available?
The types of protective masks are:
- disposable surgical mask – it is universal, cheap and ensures safety. However, to be sure, you should buy masks with an appropriate certificate. The most commonly used are type II masks, which are made of non-woven polypropylene. They are made of three layers that filter the air in as much as 98%;
- reusable masks – they can be used many times. Unfortunately, products from this group are not always able to protect us against harmful viruses transmitted by airborne droplets. Their main task is to protect the respiratory tract against dust. If the reusable mask has an N99 filter, it means that it cleans the air in 99%. from dust, bacteria and viruses. These are usually more expensive products, usually they have a special place for the filter. Some of them are made of cotton or some other material, which makes cleaning and disinfection easier.
Check it out: How is the coronavirus test performed?
How should you wash reusable cotton masks?
Reusable cotton masks simply wash after use. This is a guarantee that the mask is safe and still fulfills its function. Remember to change the mask every time it gets wet. Remove the mask very carefully. Try not to touch its outer side and put it in a plastic bag. We don’t open it until it is washed.
Before washing the masks, wear disposable gloves, but still avoid touching the masks before washing. All bags are emptied directly into the washing machine. The washing machine should be set at a minimum of 60 degrees C and washed for about 45 minutes. It is also worth using the cotton program, if our washing machine has one.
Remember to wash the masks separately. Do not add them to your daily washing.
At Medonet Market you can order reusable protective masks that can be washed at 90 degrees C. They are made of hypoallergenic materials. Various sizes and colors are available.
How should I disinfect reusable cotton masks?
When the cotton masks dry, it is also worth disinfecting them. A high temperature is necessary for this. The masks should therefore either be boiled in boiling water or ironed with an iron set to the maximum temperature.
Cotton masks can also be disinfected with antibacterial agents with an alcohol content of at least 70 percent. in the form of a spray. Such disinfection is simple and quick. Just sprinkle the mask with a disinfectant and wait for it to dry. Nevertheless, it is much more recommended to wash the mask in a high temperature.
Remember that the coronavirus dies only at 60 degrees Celsius. Washing at lower temperatures will not do anything. Therefore, never wash cotton masks by hand!
Among others methods of disinfecting masks, which can be found on various portals, it is worth mentioning the heating of a mask placed in a casserole dish in the oven. It should be set to a temperature of 70 degrees C and leave the mask in it for 30 minutes.
However, disinfection with chlorine bleach is not recommended as it can damage the material.
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Have a question about the coronavirus? Send them to the following address: [email protected] You can find a daily updated list of answers HERE: Coronavirus – frequently asked questions and answers.