With the world reeling under COVID-19 pandemic, most countries are under lockdowns and social distancing.
While lockdowns and social distancing are measures to slow down the spread of the virus, you must make sure to protect yourself with a mask if you have to get out of the house. However, there's one thing you must know about masks- the general public must avoid purchasing surgical masks or N95 respirators. Health care professionals are facing shortages and need those masks to treat affected patients.
That said, you must also know that homemade masks are not a substitute for staying at home or social distancing.
If you want to make a mask of your own, here are a few simple instructions that will help you make a mask even if you do not know how to sew.
Things you will need are
- Coffee filter
- Hair ties or Rubber bands
- T-shirt, bandana, or square cotton cloth( 20" x 20")
- Scissors
Let’s get started!
- Cut off the bottom of a folded coffee filter and keep the top part. The top part will be used as a filter in your mask.
- Place the T-shirt, bandana or cloth piece flat in a rectangle. Next, fold in half lengthwise.
- Use the cut filter and fold it in the center of the folded bandana, T-shirt or cotton cloth. Fold the cloth, bandana, or T-shirt over the filter. Next, fold the bottom up.
- Place the hair ties or rubber bands about six inches apart around the folded bandana or T-shirt.
- Fold the side of the T-shirt or cloth inwards, towards the middle and tuck.
- Next, place the rubber bands or ties around your ears. That’s it. Your mask is ready!
How to put-on and take-off your mask?
Before wearing your mask, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. You may rub your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if water and soap aren’t available.
When putting on the mask, hold the rubber bands or ties before securing it to your face. Make sure that it fits snugly. Avoid touching the fabric.
When taking off your mask, make sure that you wash your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer. Unhook or untie the mask from your face by using the straps. Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth. Wash the mask immediately and keep it clean for the next use.
Wash your hands after you take off the mask.
Some tips to wear and take care of your mask.
- Make sure the mask fits you comfortably and covers your mouth and nose
- Wash your mask regularly. You may wash it in hot water and detergent in between each use. If possible, have more than one more mask.
- Avoid touching the mask once it is on your face. If you must touch it, make sure to wash your hands properly.
- Use the mask at all times when you are in public. Avoid removing the mask to adjust the fit or talk to someone. You may check the fit before leaving your car.
Do note that a cloth mask isn’t safe for children below 2 years of age or anyone who’s suffering from breathing troubles or otherwise incapacitated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Takeaway
Taking appropriate measures to slow the spread of the coronavirus and protecting ourselves from it is something we can all do.
You can make your fabric mask with just a few basic items available at home even if you don't know to sew. You can wear the mask when out in public and help slow the spread of the virus.
