Masks have become an essential thing to carry whenever we are headed out and some countries have also made wearing them mandatory in the public. Many of us have gotten used to wearing masks but don’t know the right way to reuse them. Not cleaning and sanitizing your mask before reusing them can increase the risk of catching the infection and even makes wearing one ineffective.
Here are the ways to properly clean your mask before reusing and wearing them out in public.
Wash your hands
Make sure you start cleaning your mask with clean hands. If you have just come back home, sanitize your hands before cleaning your mask.
Wash your mask properly with water
Use warm water to properly clean your mask. You can use mild detergent or soap to wash the mask. Make sure no residual soap is left behind.
Keep it under sunlight
The best way to dry off the mask is by keeping them under direct sunlight. It is advisable to keep them under the sun for at least 5 hours.
Use Iron to apply heat
If you can’t arrange for hot water or have access to limited sunlight, the next best option is to use clothing iron. Wash the mask with water and soap and use the iron to dry them off.
Here is how you can clean and reuse your mask. Here are some tips that will help you use face masks effectively.
- Don’t share your mask with family members.
- Choose a well-fitted mask, change if it doesn’t fit properly.
- Always remove the mask from your face using the straps.
- Don’t pull down the mask while talking to people.
- Make sure your mask covers all three; nose, mouth, and chin.