As parents, we have always prioritized our children’s needs, from ensuring they have well-fitting shoes to packing nutritious lunches. Now, as winter approaches, we find ourselves shopping for coats, gloves (which inevitably get lost—why is it always the right glove?), and possibly snow pants and boots if we live in colder climates. However, since 2020, the list of essentials has grown to include high-quality, comfortable masks that our kids can wear throughout the school day.
With the American Academy of Pediatrics recommending mask-wearing for all children over the age of two—especially with the Delta Variant still posing a risk—it’s clear that masks are part of our new normal. Numerous companies, from Amazon to local Etsy shops, have jumped on the mask bandwagon, each advertising their products as the “most comfortable” and “most protective.” But how do we make the right choice? Kids can be quite discerning, and what suits one child might not work for another. Once we find a suitable mask, we also need to know how to care for it properly: How often should it be washed? Can it go in with regular laundry? Does it need special handling?
Here are some essential tips for selecting the right mask and keeping it clean.
Selecting the Right Mask
When it comes to masks, the most important factor is that your child will actually wear it comfortably. You could purchase the most expensive N95 mask available, but if your child removes it multiple times a day, it’s not effective. “The most effective mask is the one a child will wear and that fits them well,” says Dr. Megan Hart, a pediatric health expert. If your child is generally okay with wearing masks, then you might want to consider options like double-layered cloth masks or surgical masks, which experts recommend as providing a good balance of comfort and protection against Covid-19.
For those curious about the fit, a double-layered cloth mask can be identified by gently pulling apart the fabric layers. Some children may not tolerate the snug fit of N95 masks, so it’s essential to prioritize comfort. Resources like this informative spreadsheet can help you compare various children’s masks based on filtration levels and fit.
Caring for Masks
Proper mask hygiene is critical. According to health guidelines, reusable masks should be washed whenever they become dirty or at least daily. A simple routine in our household is for the kids to toss their masks in the washing machine as soon as they come home. This ensures they’re sanitized and ready for the next school day.
So how should you clean them? The CDC states that you can wash masks with your regular laundry or hand-wash them with soap, followed by thorough rinsing. They can be air-dried or placed in the dryer—whatever suits your routine best. The key is to ensure they are washed regularly.
Don’t forget the importance of hand hygiene! After touching a mask—whether to remove it or take a break—make sure to wash hands thoroughly. This is just as vital as wearing a mask in preventing the spread of Covid-19.
Key Points to Remember
- Comfort and fit are essential when selecting a mask for your child.
- Double-layered cloth masks are effective and suitable for kids.
- Consistently wash masks after use and maintain good hand hygiene.
- Encourage your children for their efforts to be responsible citizens during this time.
Encouraging your kids in their efforts to wear their masks and take precautions is vital. They are doing a great job navigating these challenging times.
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Summary
When selecting a mask for your child, prioritize comfort and fit over price. Regularly wash masks to ensure cleanliness, and remember to maintain proper hand hygiene. Encouraging your children in these efforts helps them contribute positively to public health.
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