Recently, I observed two individuals wearing disposable masks that looked quite dirty and greasy. One was a mechanic, who was just finishing up putting snow tires on my van, and the other was a retired gentleman on his way to the grocery store, dressed comfortably in a cardigan and khakis.
The mechanic’s mask was dirty due to the nature of his work; it was clear he and his colleagues changed their personal protective equipment frequently. In contrast, the retired man’s mask appeared worn out from prolonged use—yikes. He might have been trying to save a few bucks or simply unaware that single-use masks lose their effectiveness after about eight hours. While disposable masks should be disposed of after a day’s use, cloth masks can be reused multiple times. They are more environmentally friendly and budget-conscious, but they too should be treated as single-use items. A dirty cloth mask is just as unappealing. Masks may feel like a hassle, but if we’re going to wear them, it’s crucial to know how to care for them to ensure they function effectively.
Why Clean Your Masks?
Cleaning masks is vital as it eliminates viruses that may have accumulated from public exposure or from breathing onto the mask. Research indicates that the coronavirus can survive on fabric for up to two days, and another study found it could persist for as long as seven days.
Before washing your mask, it’s important to remove it correctly. It might seem simple, but touching the mask improperly can expose you to germs. Always use the ear loops to take off the mask, folding the outside corners together to prevent contact with the exterior. Store the mask in a designated bag or container for washing, and remember to wash your hands afterward while avoiding contact with your face or other surfaces.
If you prefer disposable masks, that’s perfectly fine. However, unless worn for extended periods, you can reuse them after short errands. Just store them in a clean, dry area. Raina McDonald, a biosecurity expert, suggests lightly spraying the mask with an aerosol disinfectant before storing it to kill any lingering germs.
Most of us probably have a variety of cloth masks. They’re often more comfortable and can serve as fun accessories or personal expressions. The market quickly caught on to this trend, producing masks adorned with favorite teams, quotes, and colors. However, masks should not be treated like your favorite sweats. After a full day’s use or several short outings, they need to be washed. I find it convenient to gather dirty masks in a mesh laundry bag and toss them in with my laundry. The CDC recommends washing masks on the hottest appropriate setting and drying them on a warm setting as well.
To extend the lifespan of our masks, I prefer to air dry them after washing. While I have no scientific evidence to back this up, it helps me keep track of them. One time, I accidentally tossed the mesh bag into the dryer, and the zipper came undone—resulting in a frantic search for my kids’ favorite masks right before school. A friend of mine has had success drying masks in a pillowcase tied shut.
If washing machines aren’t an option, hand washing is also effective. You can soak your masks in a mild (0.05%) chlorine solution for 30 minutes, then rinse with laundry detergent and water, allowing them to air dry on a sanitized surface. UVB light has been shown to kill COVID-19, but I prefer liquid cleaning methods. Some people have even steamed their masks. Raina McDonald suggests rinsing your masks in the sink and then placing them in a steamer for about five minutes. Just avoid using the microwave or oven, as that can lead to hazardous materials in the fabric igniting.
If your mask has a hole or tear, it’s time to toss it. Additionally, if it no longer fits snugly over your mouth and nose, replace it.
The CDC has provided evidence that masks effectively reduce the spread of COVID-19 by limiting respiratory droplets. With millions of COVID-19 cases, wearing a mask is essential. I miss the days without concerning death tolls, seeing loved ones, and traveling freely.
It’s easy to disregard precautions when the impact isn’t immediately felt—like not exercising until a health issue arises. But in the case of COVID-19, it’s about prevention and compassion. Keeping our masks clean is part of our responsibility to protect each other.
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Summary:
Properly caring for and cleaning masks is essential for ensuring their effectiveness in preventing COVID-19 transmission. Whether using disposable or cloth masks, understanding how to wash and maintain them can help protect yourself and others. Always remove masks correctly, store them safely, and ensure they are washed after use. Remember, prevention is key, and keeping masks clean is a vital part of that effort.
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