How to Clean and Sanitize All Types of Face Masks?

Coronavirus has changed the life of every individual in this world. Gone are the days when people used to roam around on the streets freely. Let alone travelling a short distance, people cannot even shake hands in today’s time. Yet another change that Covid-19 has brought into our lives is face masks. 

Today, face masks have become as essential as oxygen. You cannot not use face masks if you want to be safe from the wrath of coronavirus. Every person has to use face masks on a daily basis. Now, the question that arises is that do face masks, being so much in use, require to be changed every day? And if one face mask is enough for a long time then how does one clean and sanitize it? What should one do to make sure that the face mask they are using is clean and free from germs and viruses?

Let us find out how one can clean and sanitize their face masks to ensure proper protection from coronavirus disease. 

How To Clean and Sanitize Different Types of Face Masks?

Cleaning and sanitizing the face masks after each use is highly recommended. We should not forget that face masks play a big role in preventing the spread of coronavirus, they can also become the cause of it, if contaminated. Talking about the proper way to clean and sanitize your face mask, learn that it would depend on its type. 

Take a look at the type of face masks and how to perform their cleaning and sanitization:

1. Cloth Face Masks - If you have been using  cloth face masks, cleaning would come easy. The same applies to scarves, bandanas, and  neck gaiters as they can be easily cleaned and reused. 

In case of machine washing all kinds of cloth masks, it’s better to first wash hands, then remove the mask before tossing the mask directly into the washing machine. While doing so, one must remember to not touch their nose, eyes, and mouth. Once the mask is laundered, it should be dried under the sun. Please note that use of regular detergent can be done. In case of hand washing also, one must wash their hands before removing the face mask. 

If you want to sanitize your cloth mask, soak it in a bleach solution for 5 minutes.

2. Medical Grade Face Masks - If you have been using medical grade face masks, such as N95 and surgical masks, know that they are specifically designed for single use only. While medical grade masks can be reused for professional purposes after disinfecting, they should be disposed of right away when used by an average person. 

As far as disinfecting medical grade masks is concerned, N95 masks can be disinfected using vapor phase hydrogen peroxide or UVC germicidal irradiation. 

3. Face Shields - If you have been using face shields, you can easily clean them by wiping down the inside using a cleaner wipe or clean cloth saturated with a neutral detergent solution. Once done with cleaning the inside of the shield, clean the outside using a different disinfectant wipe or clean cloth saturated with a disinfectant solution.

Once done, you can use clean water to remove the remains. Then, allow the face shield to air-dry and wash your hands. 

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Conclusion

The spread of coronavirus may have impacted the lives of many, but it is a must to Stay Positive Amid Coronavirus Lockdown and continue the use of masks. Also, it is important to follow Social Distancing Guidelines to Fight Coronavirus in India.

Remember, regular use of masks, which are clean and properly sanitized is one of the best ways to keep the deadly virus at bay. After all, prevention is better than cure.

Also Read: Must Know Tips for Protecting Children Against Coronavirus As a Parent

Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.