Wearing a face mask offers a practical way to reduce the spread of respiratory droplets, protecting both the wearer and the surrounding community. However, the effectiveness of any mask depends significantly on how it is worn, as improper application can reduce filtration efficiency and compromise the protective barrier. Understanding the proper orientation and fit is necessary to ensure the material can perform its function as a physical and filtration barrier.
Identifying the Correct Sides
The construction of most disposable medical masks involves multiple specialized layers, each serving a distinct purpose in the filtration process. These masks typically feature a three-ply design, with the outer layer intended to face the environment. This exterior layer is usually colored, often blue or green, and is made from a hydrophobic material that repels fluids and large droplets.
The inner layer, which rests against the face, is made of a softer, absorbent material to wick away moisture from the wearer’s breath. This absorbent layer prevents the mask from quickly becoming saturated with condensation, which could otherwise degrade the mask’s ability to filter air. The middle layer, often made of melt-blown polypropylene, is the primary filtration component, trapping microscopic particles through an electrostatic charge. For multi-layered cloth masks, if both sides are the same color, identify the outside by looking for the side with more visible seams or a designated pattern.
Securing the Mask for Maximum Protection
Achieving a proper seal around the edges of the mask is just as important as the material’s filtration capability. Any gaps allow unfiltered air to bypass the mask fabric, compromising the barrier. The top edge of most masks contains a flexible metal strip, known as the nose wire, which must be carefully molded over the bridge of the nose. Use both index fingers to gently pinch and press the wire to conform precisely to the contours of your nasal bridge for a snug fit.
The mask must extend fully from the bridge of your nose down to completely cover your mouth and reach underneath your chin. Adjusting the ear loops or ties ensures the mask fits securely and comfortably against the sides of your face, minimizing any air gaps near your cheeks. If the mask has pleats, they should be extended fully to cover the face, with the pleats facing downwards on the exterior of the mask. A simple test for a good fit is to exhale sharply; if you feel air escaping significantly from the sides, the seal is inadequate and requires further adjustment.
Hygienic Application and Removal
The process of donning and doffing a mask must prioritize hand hygiene to prevent contamination. Before touching a new or clean mask, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. When placing the mask on your face, handle it only by the ear loops, ties, or head straps to avoid touching the main filtration surface.
While wearing the mask, avoid touching the front surface, as this area is considered contaminated after exposure to the environment. If any adjustment is necessary, clean your hands immediately before and after touching the mask. When removing the mask, approach it from behind, touching only the loops or ties and pulling the mask away from your face.
Disposal and Cleaning
For disposable masks, they must be discarded immediately into a closed waste container after removal. Reusable cloth masks should be carefully removed and placed into a dedicated clean bag for transport home, preventing cross-contamination of other surfaces. Cloth masks require washing after each use, preferably in hot water with laundry detergent, and must be dried completely before being worn again. Finishing the removal process by washing your hands again is a necessary step to maintain a hygienic routine.