This archive report was first published on 20 April 2020.
As the government urges us to wear face masks to slow the spread of coronavirus, many of us have turned to making our own DIY masks at home. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these simple face masks can be effective in slowing the spread of the virus.
On April 20, 2020, the CDC recommended that we use cloth face masks and reserve surgical masks for healthcare providers. To keep our cloth face masks clean, we need to wash them regularly.
DIY masks can be made from cotton fabric and elastic, and can be either sewn or no-sew. To clean a cotton face mask, lather it with soap and wash in warm to hot water. Scrub for at least 20 seconds, then rinse thoroughly and put to dry under the sun. Once dry, you can iron it to kill any remaining germs.
If you prefer to use a washing machine, wash the face mask in hot water and tumble dry. It's also a good idea to wash your face mask after every use, just in case you came into contact with any germs.
Remember to wash your hands thoroughly after removing your face mask, and avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, or mouth when removing it.
