Stanley Evans-Power
- 2 min read

CREATING THE PERFECT FACE MASK

We go over how you can create a face mask at home more effective than even a surgical face mask.

Step 1:

Layer up. Even the simplest of materials can make for an effective blockade against COVID-19. Such materials include cotton, Oly Fun and… Kleenex tissues! The first layer of your mask should use a polyester cotton fabric because the material is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water and provides a good barrier. The 2nd layer can be Oly Fun or even tissue, just for a bit of added protection. And lastly, the inside layer can be made of cotton for water protection and because it's comfortable. Adding layers makes it harder and harder for the virus to reach you.

Step 2:

Measure up. You want the mask to cover up to your noes so that your breath is blocked. People worry that a mask is hard to breathe in, but the truth is your mask should be comfortable to wear. Make sure you get the right measurements so that the mask covers your face and has no loose and has no openings, but it does not need to feel too tight or hard to breathe in. There’s no reason wearing a mask can’t be comfortable.

Step 3:

Charge up. Rub your mask for 30 seconds with a material that insulates. Rubbing your mask for 30 seconds before use will give it a static charge that will last the whole day that according to Dr Amy Price “will make the masks 30 per cent more effective”.

You might be interested: No Lockdown Shouldn't Mean No Mask - interview with WHO researchers

Step 4:

Smarten up. A reusable mask is only useful if you're keeping good care of it. After your done with your mask keep it in a sealable plastic bag. When you clean your mask, do it outside, and keep it away from other possessions. It's easy to get distracted inside by the disturbances of daily life (E.g. putting the mask down while you take a phone call) and let the mask contaminate other things. Wash it with hot water and soap and do not wash it with other things. You do not want it getting mixed with the baby’s clothing…

And lastly,

Remember that wearing a mask does not make you invisible. The best measure for stopping the virus will always be social distancing, properly watching your hands and being thoughtful of others. The mask isn’t for protecting you, it’s for protecting others, and if we all do it we all protect each other.