Mask Do's
- Do make sure you can breath.
- Do wear a mask in public.
- Do cover your nose and mouth.
Mask Don'ts
- Don't use on children under age 2.
- Don't use while sleeping.
- Don't use medical grade or N95 masks.
- Don't share masks. Masks should only be used by one person.
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For Best Results
Make sure your mask:
- fits snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
- completely covers the nose and mouth
- is secured with ties or ear loops
- includes multiple layers of fabric, ideally 3 layers
- allows for breathing without restriction
- can be laundered without damage or change to shape
- does not have a valve, which can expel unfiltered air upon exhalation
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Wearing a Mask
DIY Cloth Face Coverings Instructions from the CDC »
ASL Video Series: I Wear a Mask Because »
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World Health Organization (WHO) Mask Recommendations
Highlighted considerations for non-medical masks.
Fabric selection:
- Choose materials that capture particles and droplets but remain easy to breathe through.
- Avoid stretchy material for making masks as they provide lower filtration efficiency during use and are sensitive to washing at high temperatures.
- Fabrics that can support high temperatures (60° or more) are preferable.
Construction:
- A minimum of three layers is recommended, depending on the fabric used: an inner layer touching the mouth and an outer layer that is exposed to the environment.
- Choose water-absorbing (hydrophilic) materials or fabrics for the internal layers, to readily absorb droplets, combined with an external synthetic material that does not easily absorb liquid (hydrophobic).
Read the WHO's full publication on masks »
