As people adjust to life behind a mask during the COVID-19 pandemic, there are some questions we still need to figure out. One of those questions is how many times can a mask be worn before it has to be washed or disposed of?
For cloth masks, it's easy to just toss it in the washer and then it's good to go. The CDC recommends washing it with your regular laundry, and making sure it's completely dry before putting it back on.
For disposable masks, The name says it all. The reuse factor just isn't there, and should be disposed of after a day of use, or as soon as it gets moist, whichever comes first.
If you are using an N-95 Mask, a new study from the National Institute of Health said you can reuse it up to three times. While the masks are intended for single-use, the four cleaning methods they tested for effectively decontaminated the masks twice before damaging the seal and fit.
Those cleaning methods were a hydrogen peroxide vapor spray, heat treatment at 70 degrees Celsius, ultraviolet light, and a 70 percent ethanol spray.
No matter what method you use, after two cleanings and three wears, its time to switch out the mask.
If you're in need of extra masks and want to know how to make a cloth mask out of materials you have laying around the house, click here.
How Many Times Can Your N95 Mask Be Used?
PUBLISHED May 26, 2020 @9:38 AM