DIY Fabric Face Mask 101

How to wear Fabric Masks, and which ones are most effective? 

Using a face mask is important for your protection. No matter which masks you are using, you must be sure that you are wearing an effective mask that can prevent you from germs and viruses. Recently, we have learned that COVID-19 spreads through coughing and sneezing, so when a person coughs or sneeze, we need to protect ourselves by wearing a protective mask. These masks absorb the bacteria and protect the people around you. The CDC recommends that everyone should wear a mask, regardless if they are sick or not. In my state of Maryland, we have to wear masks in public areas such as grocery stores and metro stations.

Does fabric mask really work? 

Yes, it is helpful. Your mask will help to prevent the germs from getting into your nose and mouth. However, a fabric mask has limited power to prevent daily germs, so it is suggested by medical professionals to wash your mask after each use. 

Which fabric can you choose if you are going to make your own mask? 

Some sites suggest that one can use t-shirt fabric, cotton, or tea towels to prevent the spread of germs. However, you may want to make sure that it is 100% cotton and tightly woven. Also, scientific research suggests that HEPA furnace filters scored high in the prevention of germs as compared to the pillowcase and the fabrics that are like flannel pajamas.

Some sites suggest that one can use t-shirt fabric, cotton, or tea towels to prevent the spread of germs. However, you may want to make sure that it is 100% cotton and tightly woven. Also, scientific research suggests that HEPA furnace filters scored high in the prevention of germs as compared to the pillowcase and the fabrics that are like flannel pajamas.

Which fabric can you choose if you are going to make your own mask? 

Some sites suggest that one can use t-shirt fabric, cotton, or tea towels to prevent the spread of germs. However, you may want to make sure that it is 100% cotton and tightly woven. Also, scientific research suggests that HEPA furnace filters scored high in the prevention of germs as compared to the pillowcase and the fabrics that are like flannel pajamas.

Which fabric can you choose if you are going to make your own mask? 

Some sites suggest that one can use t-shirt fabric, cotton, or tea towels to prevent the spread of germs. However, you may want to make sure that it is 100% cotton and tightly woven. Also, scientific research suggests that HEPA furnace filters scored high in the prevention of germs as compared to the pillowcase and the fabrics that are like flannel pajamas.

Which fabric can you choose if you are going to make your own mask? 

Some sites suggest that one can use t-shirt fabric, cotton, or tea towels to prevent the spread of germs. However, you may want to make sure that it is 100% cotton and tightly woven. Although a fabric mask cannot compete with the N95 mask or surgical masks, wearing something is better than not wearing anything at all.

How to wear a fabric mask? 

• Mask must allow you to breathe comfortably.
• Secure your mask with ties or ear loops. (I use elastic)
• You should feel comfortable after wearing the mask.
• Make sure it covers your nose.

How often you need to wash the fabric mask? 

Wash your mask daily. Since you have used your mask throughout the day, imagine how many germs are absorbed in your mask. It is important to discard the disposable ones and wash your fabric mask after each use. If you do not, it is possible that you may get sick from the continued use of an uncleaned mask.

Quick Cut T-shirt Face Covering (no sew method) (adapted from the CDC)

How to make a fabric mask? 

Material

To make a cloth face mask, you need the following material:

• rectangles of cotton fabric 10”x6” (two)
• take two rubber band or elastic of 6”
• thread and needle 
• sewing machine 

Method 

To make a fabric mask, you need to follow the given method step-by-step

1. Take two 10 by 6 inch rectangular of cotton fabric (you can also use t-shirt). Mound the two rectangles; you will sew the mask as if it was a single piece of fabric.
2. Now fold the long ¼ sides and hem. Now fold the double layer of fabric near about ½ inch along the short sides. Now stitch down this. 
3. Now take rubber band or elastic and run them through the wider hem on both sides of the mask. We are adding this rubber band to make the ear loops. Use needle and thread to fix them and at the end tie the loops. If you do not have an elastic or rubber band, you can simply add the string and tie on the backside of your head. 
4. Now add these tie loops inside the fabric. Stitch the elastic by sewing machine; otherwise, it may slip from the face. 
5. Adjust the mask according to your face. 

Be safe and stay healthy!