You know the cute cloth mask that is made with a single-layer fabric or the one made of thin fabric that doesn’t block light that you got from the Etsy shop? I have bad news for you. According to the CDC, loosely woven cloth products provide the least protection. What about the surgical mask?
If you don’t already know, well-fitting NIOSH-approved respirators (including N95s) offer the highest level of protection.
Does the surgical mask provide any protection?
According to the CDC, well-fitting disposable surgical masks more protection compared to the cloth masks.
What does well-fitting mean?
It means that the mask fits closely on the face without any gaps along the edges or around the nose.
What are the recommendations for wearing the surgical mask?
For surgical masks, CDC recommends to wear the ones with a nose wire, multiple layers of non-woven material, and a proper fit over your nose, mouth, and chin to prevent leaks.
The surgical mask should NOT be worn with wet or dirty material or gaps around the sides of the face or nose.
What are ways to have better fit and extra protection with cloth and disposable surgical masks?
