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The authorities introduced the obligation to cover the nose and mouth when moving in public spaces. Most people choose protective masks in this situation. However, if you choose a reusable mask, you must wash it after each wear at 60 degrees C. Why is it recommended to wash at this temperature?
The coronavirus is a virus that belongs to the Coronaviridae family. This virus has a lipid envelope with characteristic structures on the surface. They look just like a crown. The coronavirus casing is very easy to destroy with commonly known and used chemicals such as soap or various chemicals.
- Check it out: How to safely remove disposable gloves?
Coronavirus can be infected mainly by airborne droplets in two ways: direct and indirect. The source of direct infection is an infected person. The coronavirus particles are found in her saliva, nasal discharge, or even vapor coming out of her mouth. So all you need to do is cough or sneeze in a crowded place for the coronavirus to spread to other people. In the form of an aerosol, the coronavirus stays in the air for up to 3 hours.
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The source of indirect infection is various surfaces contaminated with the coronavirus. Just touch them to transfer the virus to yourself. For example, on cardboard surfaces, the coronavirus can last for about 24 hours, while on steel or plastic – up to 72 hours. After this time, it dries up and ceases to be active.
Coronavirus can also spread by air. This means that an infected patient can ‘transmit’ the virus even while talking, singing or exercising.
- Check it out: How long will we have to wear face masks?
How to safely remove the mask?
The reusable mask should be washed, because only in this way will it be safe and fulfill its function. Change it when it starts to get wet.
A face mask is designed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus to other people. Thanks to it, we will not infect other people asymptomatically. Masks also reduce the risk of infection from others.
Remove the protective mask very gently. Be careful not to touch the outer layer and gently place it in the disposable foil pouch. It should wait in a bag to be washed.
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Why should the masks be washed at 60 degrees C?
According to WHO, the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus dies at a minimum temperature of 56 degrees C after 15 minutes. The higher the temperature, the faster the virus ceases to be active and dangerous. For this reason, it is recommended to wash the masks at a temperature of 60 degrees Celsius, minimum 45 degrees C.
Before we start washing the masks, it is absolutely necessary to put on disposable gloves. However, remember to still avoid touching the masks. We empty the bags with masks directly into the washing machine. Remember to never wash your face masks with the rest of your daily wash!
How can you disinfect the masks?
Washing masks is one way to get rid of the coronavirus. The most important thing is to thoroughly disinfect the mask so that it can still be used safely. Even after washing at 60 degrees C in a washing machine, it is recommended to iron the mask with a hot iron after it is dry.
In addition, the mask can also be disinfected in hot, boiling water at a temperature of 100 degrees C. At this temperature, we will kill all pathogenic microorganisms.
Are you infected with the coronavirus or someone close to you has COVID-19? Or maybe you work in the health service? Would you like to share your story or report any irregularities that you have witnessed or affected? Write to us at: [email protected]. We guarantee anonymity!
Another option is to disinfect the mask with commonly used agents. It is important that they are made on the basis of a minimum of 70 percent. alcohol. It is enough to spray the mask with such a liquid and wait for it to dry. However, the safest solution is to wash and iron the mask.
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