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You have to get used to the masks, because the obligation to wear them may be maintained for the next few months. However, improperly worn, removed and cleaned, not only will they not protect us from contracting the coronavirus, and can even be dangerous to our health. Check that you are using them properly.
There are many types of masks on the market. You can choose disposable surgical, cotton (reusable), filtering (medical) half-masks, including anti-smog, which are characterized by a different degree of air permeability. At Medonet Market you will find, for example, hypoallergenic reusable masks that filter particles at the level of over 97%.
We decided to focus on the most popular among ordinary users, cotton and disposable surgical masks. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. The masks are designed to prevent the spread of the virus by infected people. According to many experts, a large part of the population can pass the coronavirus asymptomatically without even knowing it. Therefore, everyone should cover their mouth and nose for the safety of others.
The most effective are surgical masks that ensure a bacterial filtration rate of 98%. Cotton models, sewn by hand at home, provide approx. 50% protection (the same is when wearing a scarf). Many manufacturers offer masks made of several layers of cotton, which provide better effectiveness – even up to over 75%.
Which type to choose? What to pay attention to when buying? How to put them on, wear them and take them off? Where to throw away disposable masks and how to decontaminate cotton masks? Below you will find some expert advice and the most common mistakes when using masks.
Why is it worth buying a cotton mask?
Cotton masks are made of soft materials that do not obstruct breathing, which translates into the comfort of wearing them. They are ecological and economical – you save on buying new pieces and reduce the amount of waste.
When buying a cotton mask, pay attention to the number of layers of the material it is made of. It must have at least two to give you greater protection against bacteria and viruses. It should adhere to the face as well as possible, without irritating the skin, which is why it is so important that it is made of very good quality materials (preferably 100% cotton). You should also look at the length of the rubber band. It is a mistake to choose too short. We will feel uncomfortable and the skin around the ears may rub. Keep in mind that many manufacturers usually specify the length and width of the mask. Not everyone puts information about the length of the eraser. Then it is worth measuring your head circumference at home with a tape measure and write to the manufacturer asking for the dimensions.
You can also choose a mask tied at the back of the head. Such a model allows for a precise fit without the feeling of pressure. There are also masks that can be tied both at the back of the head and put behind the ears – just sew the two ends of the elastic bands with a needle and thread or with a machine. Below is an example of such a product:
How to disinfect cotton masks?
We make the most mistakes when cleaning a cotton mask. In order to get rid of impurities, bacteria and viruses, it should be washed in a washing machine at a temperature of at least 60 degrees for a minimum of 45 minutes. To be sure, choose the 90 degrees hourly mode. For safety, it is better not to put the mask in the washing machine with other items.
After coming home, it’s best to wash the mask immediately. If you have several cotton masks and you don’t want to wash just one, put the used one in a plastic bag and tie it tightly. You can also clean the masks by hand. It is enough to put the mask in a bowl (it is best to choose an old one that is not used) and pour boiling water over it. Wait a few minutes, then wash it with antibacterial soap. Hang the mask, washed in the washing machine or cleaned by hand, on the dryer. When it is dry, iron it with an iron, using the highest temperature. Store the masks in a separate drawer, away from clothing.
Is it worth buying a disposable mask?
Disposable masks are also available in two versions – with an elastic band and tied with a string. They are made of various materials. Type II surgical masks, which are made of three layers of non-woven polypropylene, will be a good choice. They provide a very good degree of bacterial filtration, which is defined at the minimum level of 98%. Additionally, they allow you to breathe freely. There are type IIR surgical masks available on the market, which not only protect against droplet infection, but also have increased resistance to leakage. When choosing disposable models, it is important to pay attention to the parameter of bacterial filtration efficiency. It should be labeled: BFE> 98%.
At Medonet Market, you can buy biodegradable FFP2 masks or biodegradable IIR type surgical masks at a promotional price. See the full range of disposable masks and choose the type that suits you best.
Check opinions on protective masks
Where to throw away the disposable mask?
The disposal of disposable masks is very important in reducing the spread of bacteria and viruses. It is a mistake to throw the used pieces into a bag with all the other waste that has accumulated in the house over the last few days. They should be placed in a separate container and tightly closed. The used masks must then be placed in the mixed waste bins. If we are in quarantine, put them in a double garbage bag, tie it tightly and give it to someone from around (a neighbor, relatives in the family). Before someone picks up the waste, you have to wait 72 hours.
How to properly put on and take off the mask?
Before applying the mask, thoroughly disinfect your hands with soap and water. Additionally, you can use an antibacterial gel. Apply the mask to your nose and mouth and check that they are properly covered. Then tie them neatly with strings at the back of the head or put the elastics behind the ears. If you touch the mask with your hands during a walk, disinfect your hands with an antibacterial gel as soon as possible. After coming home, take off the mask by grabbing the string or rubber bands. Do not touch the front of the mask as this is where the most dirt, bacteria and viruses accumulate. It is important not to remove the chin mask during the phone call. Firstly, we will be exposed to infection, and secondly, we will touch the mask with a dirty hand.
At Medonet Market you will find sets of Meringer and Adrianno Damianni filtering masks at attractive prices. The first are TW PLAST F 98% filtration protective masks. The second, in turn, are masks with the FFP2 filter.