Face masks are an important tool when it comes to limiting the spread of respiratory diseases, especially Covid-19. If you’re wondering how to use a face mask correctly, and want to know how to properly remove and discard your face masks, we have some useful information for you. We’ve put together a list of tips to help you understand the right way to handle your mask.
1) Clean Hands Thoroughly
It’s important to use a face mask correctly. According to the World Health Organization, clean your hands with soap or an alcohol-based hand sanitiser before and after putting on a face mask. Also, we suggest you avoid touching the mask once you’ve used it to cover your nose and mouth. If you do, remember to clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub, or soap and water, again. When you cover your mouth and nose with the mask, make sure there are no gaps between your face and the mask.
2) Don’t Touch the Front of Your Mask
When you want to remove the mask, remove it from behind, holding it by the strings. Avoid touching the front of the mask. Once you have taken it off, drop it in a small garbage bag and tie a knot. Then, sanitise your hands with an alcohol-based sanitiser, or wash your hands thoroughly with soap. If you’re wondering how to dispose of face masks, it’s simple: dispose of the mask in your local waste management system.
3) Don’t Reuse a Single-Use Mask
If you’re using a single-use mask, we suggest you keep a couple of them handy. Once the mask is damp or used, consider wearing a fresh one. Avoid reusing single-use masks. Drop your used mask in a small garbage bag, tie a knot and dispose of it in your local waste management system. Do not toss it in a public place.
4) Wash a Cloth Mask After Use
Follow the same usage method mentioned in the above tip. However, wash your cloth mask thoroughly after each use. You can soak it in a solution of warm water mixed with 1-2 tsp. of vinegar for 20 minutes. Then wash as usual with detergent and air-dry.
Follow these tips scrupulously. Remember, masks are only effective when worn and disposed of correctly and used in combination with frequent and thorough hand-washing.
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