Wearing a Mask 101
In the midst of this global pandemic, it can sometimes be difficult to keep up with everything going on in the world. New regulations and ordinances are passed and repealed every day. The following is a short list of common questions and information that seeks to better educate people on wearing a mask and about mandatory mask compliance. As well as how Filti is helping in the fight against COVID-19.
“Do I really need to be wearing a mask?”
Yes, wearing a mask not only helps reduce the risk of contracting a virus yourself, but it also will help reduce the transmission of the virus for those who are knowingly and unknowingly carrying the virus. Slowing the transmission of the virus with the use of masks is also beneficial for reducing the amount of congestion in hospitals allowing them to give proper care to each patient who may be suffering from more severe symptoms.
As suggested by the CDC Guidelines, face coverings should be worn by anyone who intends on being in public, outside of their home, around a risk population or are at risk themselves. This includes children ages 2 and up, except for those who may have trouble breathing and those who may be unconscious or incapacitated.
Remember that face masks should properly fit the face of the user covering the nose and mouth. These means smaller masks for youth and larger masks to accommodate adults.
“Instead of wearing a mask can I wear a piece of cloth or a t-shirt over my face?”
When deciding on the type of face mask you will be wearing, the two most important factors to consider are the filtering qualities of the material and the fit of the actual mask to your face. While wearing any type of face covering is better than not wearing one at all, choosing a high-efficiency material that allows for some decent airflow will give you peace of mind that your material is actually filtering out particles that may be carrying the virus and will also allow you to wear the mask without discomfort for longer periods of time.
Typical cloth masks have an efficiency that is 15% or less dealing with particles that are as small as 0.3 microns. Adding a Filti insert to a cloth mask can increase the efficiency as much as 6 to 6.5 times. Thanks to our patent-pending nanofiber technology, we are able to achieve a high material efficiency rating while maintaining exceptional airflow. It is also important to note that the Filti material is much more breathable and lightweight than standard cloth masks. Adding Filti to a cloth mask drastically increases efficiency and does not impact overall airflow.
The second factor to take into consideration is the actual fit of the mask to your face. Making sure your mask is sealed well is a very crucial point. You want to have a solid seal over your nose to prevent leakage and you also want the mask to cup underneath the chin to ensure a full seal. Any pockets of leakage increase the likelihood of contamination. It is important to find a mask that fits and looks great so that you can protect yourself and others from the spread of harmful airborne particles and diseases.
“Do I have to wear a mask if I’m not sick?”
COVID-19 can be spread by people who do not have symptoms and do not know that they are infected. That is why it is important for everyone to wear masks in public settings and practice social distancing (staying at least 6 feet away from other people). If not for yourself, it is important to wear your mask to protect your family members, friends, and those around you who may be at a greater risk of infection.
Mask Etiquette
- Wear a mask or face covering when going into public areas and/or areas where social distancing is difficult to accomplish.
- Wear a properly fitted mask that covers both your mouth and nose and forces air through the mask instead of around it.
- Continue to maintain social distancing (6+ feet), avoid congested areas when possible, and continually wash your hands as often as possible.
Always remember to:
- Replace your disposable masks after each day of wear.
- Wash and maintain cloth masks and replace filter inserts when necessary.
- Stay home and avoid contact with others if you are feeling sick or unwell.
- Answers to any further questions can be found at the following sites:
I purchased 21 sq ft of the Filti face mask material. Is this designed for one use only? Or is it washable? Or maybe reusable if placed in the oven? If so, at what temperature and for how long?
Thank you kindly!
Good afternoon Sally, what we recommend is moist heat incubation in the over at 150 degrees F at 30 minutes. You can reference our Youtube channel where you can find the sanitation method there!