A Word (or So) About Masks...

We now know that the proper use of masks plays an important role in curbing the spread of Covid-19.  There are some important points to remember when using a mask to help you and others stay as healthy as possible.
  • Wearing a mask protects others from you.  If you are wearing a mask, but others are not, you are not protected, and should maintain a distance of 6 feet or more.
  • Wear a mask over your mouth AND your nose, and be sure it covers up under your chin.  Air flows through both your mouth and your nose, so covering one without the other is not effective.  The mask should feel snug against the face.
  • Keep the same side of your mask next to your nose and mouth with each wearing.  The CDC suggests that the liner of a fabric mask be of a different cloth than the public-facing side to make it easier to remember.
  • Store mask folded in half with lining inside.  Also, wash hands as soon as possible before and after applying your mask, and try to handle by the ear bands or laces.
  • Launder cloth masks regularly and do not share masks with others.  If you purchased a mask, follow laundering instructions.  If no directions, you can safely wash masks with a regular load of laundry and 
  • Find all kinds of good tips on face mask use from the CDC.

Use of Cloth Face Covering

How to Remove a Face Covering

Picture
Take Off Your Mask Carefully, When You’re Home
  • Untie the strings behind your head or stretch the ear loops
  • Handle only by the ear loops or ties
  • Fold outside corners together
  • Place mask in the washing machine (learn more about how to wash masks)
  • Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth when removing and wash hands immediately after removing
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020

Use of Disposable Face Covering

Surgical masks are not intended for multiple uses and should be discarded after one use in the trash (not the gutter, a parking lot, your neighbor's lawn...you get the point).

Here's an interesting article from the CDC comparing non-cloth masks.

How to Make a Cloth Mask

Here is a sewing pattern and instructions on how to make a cloth mask from the CDC.