Covid-19 has forced us to make a lot of changes in our daily routine. One thing that has become as important as an identity card and warrants entry to almost all places these days is a face mask. You simply cannot leave your house without one. Therefore, choosing the right one for this daily routine is very important.
There are a variety of face masks available these days. They all have their pros and cons. Here are some commonly used face masks.
Disposable Surgical Face Mask
These masks are light-weight, thin, and paper-like. They are very easy to use, and according to a study done in 2013 and published in the Aerosol Science and Technology, these surgical face masks can filter out about 60% of the inhaled particles. This includes any droplets, sprays, and splatters, which are necessary to protect against Covid-19.
You can buy these in bulk and breathe easily without any discomfort.
The Downside
You have to use a new one every day as it cannot be reused. They cannot be washed, and you have to dispose of them off and make sure you have another available at hand.
- Cone-style masks
These cone-styled masks are molded to fit over the mouth and nose. There is also an additional strip of metal at the top to easily adjust the mask at the nose’s bridge. They can be washed and reused 2 to 3 times.
The Downside
As per a study conducted by Arizona State University researchers, the cone-styled face masks are not as effective in filtering droplets and spray particles, and they are not easy to breathe in. In case of respiratory issues, you can consider buying a cloth mask.
- Respirators like the N95
N95 is a popular face respirator that is known to provide the best protection against the novel Coronavirus. It is also helpful against other respiratory diseases. N95 filters out about 95% of the droplets and other particles from the air. This mask offers two-way protection, personal and to the people in your surroundings.
The Downside
Since CDC declared this mask effective against Corona Virus, it has become extinct and is very hard to find in the market these days.
- Cloth Face Mask
Face masks made of cloth come in various shapes and sizes. Some common cloth masks are bandana masks, T-shirt masks, and cloth masks with filters. These are all viable options as they can be washed and reused as much as you want. Another great benefit is that they are much easier to breathe in and do not scar your ears. Also, they are very affordable and can be made at home.
Cloth Face Masks – The Best Option Out There
Surgical masks are the gold standard as per the CDC, but cloth face masks are even better.
You can use them daily and wash them at your convenience. It’s easy to toss the mask in the cloth washer or even clean it under running water and soap.
A cloth face mask should cup your face, and the fabric should be tight. If all these factors are considered, you will get the perfect daily mask.
Concluding Thoughts
Since there are many options for cloth masks, you have to pick one that suits your preferences. Bandana masks are better than surgical masks. Cotton masks are simple and reliable. People with allergies or asthma can use hypoallergenic cloth materials for the masks and benefit immensely from it. You can put facial tissue within your cloth mask and use it as an effective filter against dust, spray, and droplets.
Whichever mask you choose, make sure you wear it whenever you step out. COVID-19 has not left the planet, so it is best to take precautions. It is necessary to protect yourself and others around you.