When and How to Properly Use Face Masks

Many of us are unfamiliar with the practice of wearing face masks. We’re used to seeing them as something you only wear at the doctor’s office if you’re sick, but we’re in different times now. If you haven’t had to wear a face mask on a regular basis before, it can be hard to know when and how to properly wear one. When face masks aren’t worn correctly or at the right times, they can become less effective. Here’s a quick guide on what face masks to use and when and how to properly use them.

Types of Face Masks
There are three main types of masks: cloth masks, surgical masks, and N95 masks. N95 masks should be reserved for medical professionals only and aren’t needed by the general public. For personal use, cloth masks and surgical masks are the best options.

Cloth masks can easily be made at home, but they require more care as they should be washed after each use. They are a good option if surgical masks are out of stock or you’re waiting for a shipment. Surgical masks are disposable and can easily be thrown away after each use or when contamination is a concern. Our Q Source 3-Ply Disposable Mask is a comfortable and effective option. The layers of protection help filter out bacteria, dust, and allergens.

When to Use Face Masks
Face masks are worn to help reduce the spread of viruses as they can reduce the number of virus-carrying particles in the air. It’s important to keep in mind that the face mask is meant to keep the wearer from spreading germs to other people. Even if you don’t feel sick, a face mask should be worn anyway in case you are an asymptomatic carrier. Masks are most effective when everyone is wearing them.
You should use face masks when going out in public or being around those you do not live with. Masks don’t need to be worn in your home or personal vehicle but should be worn on public transportation, in grocery and retail stores, and at work.

How to Use Face Masks

The purpose of a face mask is to keep virus-spreading particles from entering the air and infecting other people. These particles can obviously be spread through coughing and sneezing. However, they can also be carried in the breath we exhale. Because of this, the most important thing to do when wearing a mask is to make sure it fully covers your nose and mouth.
Before putting on a mask, you want to make sure your hands have been thoroughly washed with soap and water. When you place the mask on your face, make sure it fits snugly and that there aren’t any gaps between your face and the mask. Try to only touch the straps and not the front of the mask during this process.
Remember to maintain social distancing even when wearing a mask.

How to Remove & Dispose of Face Masks
Proper removal of face masks is just as important as properly putting one on. Thoroughly wash your hands before removing your mask, as you will be touching your face and don’t want to spread any germs you might have picked up. Always remove your mask from the back, whether that’s untying it or taking the straps off your ears. Do not touch the front of the mask during removal.
If you are using a surgical mask, throw it away after each use or when it has been contaminated. If you are using a cloth or reusable mask, make sure to clean or launder it after each use.