Making a Homemade Face Mask

Information about Fabric masks:

• Before putting on a mask, clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water;

• The mask should fit snugly around the mouth and nose;

• If the mask has a metal wire it should be fitted snuggly to the bridge of the nose.

• Avoid touching the mask while using it, if you do wash your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub;

• Should not be worn damp or when wet from spit or mucus;

The CDC has general guidelines on how to properly clean most cloth and fabric masks:

• Fabric face masks should be routinely washed depending on the frequency of use

• A washing machine should suffice in properly washing a face covering

• Individuals should be careful not to touch their eyes, nose, and mouth when removing their face covering and wash hands immediately after removing

However, these one-size-fits-all guidelines don't necessarily take into account the different types of fabric and filters used, especially in DIY masks. Carolyn Forte, Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, suggests that all face masks should be washed with hot water in the washing machine, and tumble dried on high heat. More delicate masks that are handsewn may need to be washed by hand. If so, lather masks with soap and scrub them for at least 20 seconds with warm to hot water before tossing in the dryer. For peace of mind, iron masks on the cotton or linen setting to kill any remaining germs.

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