How to properly use two masks – and other mask-fitting tips following recent CDC advice

The new mask advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – connected to a new study – focuses on ensuring that the masks fit correctly to better prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The CDC studied whether using two masks provided more protection than one and found that it did. The researchers found that the use of a mask – surgical or cloth – blocked about 40% of the particles that came towards the head that was breathing. When a cloth mask was worn on top of a surgical mask, about 80% were blocked.

Here is a look at CDC’s advice and some tips on how to mask properly.

Double mask

What to do: Place a cloth mask over a surgical or medical procedure mask. This helps the entire setting to fit more comfortably and eliminates gaps on the sides of the face or nose. Make sure the fit is comfortable and has no play.

What not to do: do not combine two disposable masks, which are not designed to fit well. Using more than one disposable mask at a time does not improve the fit. Also, do not use a KN95 mask, a type of face protection mask commonly made in China, with any other mask.

Dosing the cloth mask: Choose a cloth mask made of several layers of breathable and tightly woven fabric, which also includes a nasal thread, which can help improve the fit of the mask. Does the mask block light when you hold it against a strong light source? So it’s a good construction.

The cloth mask should not be used: stay away from any cloth mask that includes an exhalation or ventilation valve, which may allow respiratory droplets to leak into or out of the mask.

Knotted ear loops

What to do: The CDC recommends knotting, folding and folding the handles of the three-layer masks for a better fit – making the edges of the mask fit more firmly on your face. First, fold the mask in half lengthwise, aligning the corners and edges. Second, tie a knot with the elastic straps as close to the mask as possible, according to an instructional video from UNC Health at the University of North Carolina. Then, bend the metal nose mold to fit the shape of your nose. Then, the knot will cause the sides of the mask near the tied ears to inflate. Fold these padded edges into a crease so that they are straight on your cheek. When putting on the mask, make sure it is properly fitted.

What not to do: Do ​​not use more than one disposable mask at the same time, this will not improve the fit. Handle the mask only by the straps, cords or head bands – not by the surface of the mask itself.

What about the KN95: A KN95 should not need any modification to the belts. Ideally, this type of mask can filter up to 95% of the air particles; however, counterfeit KN95 masks make it difficult to distinguish real from fake KN95s just by looking at them. Do not use a KN95 mask with an exhalation valve, as this may allow respiratory droplets to leak into or out of the mask. If you have facial hair, this type of mask may not be a good fit. Do not combine a KN95 mask with another KN95 mask or any other type of mask.

Nylon cover

What to do: Other studies have found that placing a sleeve made of transparent nylon fabric around the neck and pulling it over a cloth or surgical mask has significantly improved user protection by adjusting the mask more firmly to the face and reducing gaps in edges.

Mask strap

What to do: Air leaks at the edges of a cloth or surgical mask can be reduced by placing one of these devices in layers over a cloth mask for a better fit. A recent study showed that when a solid or elastic adjuster is used over a surgical mask, it can potentially increase user protection by 90% for aerosols. A mask strap can be purchased online or made from elastic bands. Former Apple product design engineer Sabrina Paseman, behind fixthemask.com, posted a tutorial describing the steps: First, attach three rubber bands together. Second, place the central elastic band in front of the mask around the chin and nose. Adjust the fit and perform a CDC seal check.

Another mask advice to keep in mind:

When to use a

‣ Wear a mask whenever you are in a public environment. Children under the age of 2 and people who cannot safely wear a mask due to an underlying disability or medical condition should not wear a mask.

‣ Masks are required on airplanes, buses, trains and other forms of public transport when traveling to, inside or outside the United States, as of February 2.

‣ If you are around people who do not live with you, wear a mask.

‣ If someone you live with is sick with symptoms of COVID-19 or a positive test for COVID-19, wear a mask indoors.

How to use a

‣ Always wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before putting on the mask and do not touch the mask while wearing it.

‣ If you wear glasses, find a mask that fits your nose well or has a wire to help reduce fogging. You can also try using an anti-fog spray made for glasses.

‣ Do not use a mask made of fabric that makes breathing difficult. Wear any mask that includes an exhalation or opening valve, which can allow virus particles to escape. And leave N95 respirators to healthcare professionals, says the CDC.

What to do in cold weather

‣ Wear a mask under the scarf, ski mask or hat – these items do not replace the mask.

‣ Change your mask when it gets wet. A wet mask is more difficult to breathe, less efficient at filtering and ventilates more around the edges of the mask. Keep a spare mask to replace the one that has become damp due to moisture on your breath due to snow or rain.

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