6 Common Questions About Cloth Face Masks
For the past months, the entire world has been fighting a deadly virus that has caused the lives of thousands of people. Coronavirus, or globally called Covid-19, has been acknowledged as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) and every country has its battle against its virus. No country was spared from this pandemic, and even after months of fighting, the virus is still among us. Amidst this chaos, we are always reminded of the important steps that will help in limiting the spread of the virus. Since staying at home is not possible for everyone, safety precautions must be followed. Aside from maintaining a proper social distancing, wearing a face mask is very important.

Among the available types of face masks, one of the most popular today is cloth face masks. There are many reasons why cloth face masks are widely used during this pandemic. Since it is also effective in stopping the spread of the virus, another good reason is it is a reusable mask. It can be washed and disinfected, and then use it again for another day. Unlike the disposable face masks, cloth face masks can help in saving both life and money. Now that you have been wearing your cloth face masks for months, you probably have some logical questions about it. We have gathered some of the common questions regarding face masks and we got the answers for you.
Why do I need a face mask that perfectly fits?
If you want to have a face mask that can effectively protect you from the possible spread of the virus, you have to guarantee that you are wearing it correctly. To determine if the fit of your face mask is correct, it should meet the following:
- Your cloth face mask must cover your nose and mouth
- Your cloth face mask must stay secure at the bridge of your nose as well as under your chin
- Your cloth face mask must fit your face, but it will not limit your ability to breathe
Another very important reminder when you are wearing your mask is to avoid touching it unless you have carefully washed your hands. Also, you must prevent it from draping around your neck, or resting on top of your forehead. If you have trouble breathing, you should not wear a face mask since it can worsen your condition. Face masks are not also advisable for children under 2 years old, or to a person who cannot remove his or her face mask without assistance.
When do I need to wear a face mask?
The most recommended time to wear a cloth face mask is when you are out in the public, regardless if social distancing is possible or not. Though there is no solid rule when it comes to wearing a face mask, you must keep yourself protected especially if you are inside close and busy establishments such as:
- Grocery stores
- Pharmacies
- Retail stores
- Public transportations (buses and trains)
- Gas stations
For those who are planning to go for an outdoor walk, run, or any exercise, you may consider letting go of your face mask because it can affect your ability to breathe as you do your regular cardio. However, it is still recommended to have it on hand so you can use it during unpredictable situations. Remember, you are always at risk when you are outside your house. So don’t forget the importance of a face mask.
Since I am wearing a face mask, can I get closer to someone else?
Your cloth face mask should never give you the confidence that you are safe while wearing it. When you are outside or in spaces where social distancing can be a challenge, your cloth face mask can stand as your added layer of protection. However, as much as possible, you must maintain at least one meter from someone else, especially if they are strangers to you. Your face mask must not stand as a replacement for social distancing. Instead, it must be considered as a supplement to social distancing.
How can I remove my face mask in the right way?
Just like wearing your face mask, you must also follow the right way to remove as soon as you are inside the comfort and safety of your home. When removing your face mask, hold the strings or bands that are securing the mask behind your ears. As soon as you removed the mask, you must fold the outside corner together and disinfect it. You can use a washing detergent or water with alcohol to make sure that no bacteria or virus will stay in your cloth face mask.
You should never touch your eyes, mouth, nose, or any part of your face while you are removing the mask. Once you are done with your face mask, you must wash your hands with soap, wash it with alcohol, or apply hand sanitizer immediately.
How often should I wash my face mask?
We highly recommend washing your cloth face mask each time you use it outside. It can be used using your washing machine, or it would be better to hand wash your mask. When you prefer the first option, you can use your regular laundry detergent together with the warmest water that the cloth material can handle.
If you prefer to wash your cloth face mask with your hands, allow your mask to be soaked in bleach for 5 minutes, then rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Your face mask must be completely dry before you use it again. Remember that damp cloth is known as a welcoming environment for mold to grow. No matter how you dry your cloth face mask, just make sure that it is completely dry.
How should I store my cloth face mask?
Since you are not using your face mask, you might wonder where to store it or what to do with your mask. When you are not wearing your mask, you must place it in a cool, dry place to make sure that it will stay clean and ready to be used again.
The way to store your cloth face mask is to hang its strings in a hook that is placed in your door. This is a very effective way to avoid forgetting your mask whenever you need to leave your house.
You will find a lot of online stores that sell cloth face masks. While can all offer a good deal of mask that you can use during this pandemic, you must be careful in choosing which product to get. You must consider the material that they are using, and how safe they have produced the mask.
If you are still looking for a quality cloth face mask that can protect yourself and your family wherever you are, Your Soul Purpose offers a durable face mask that is made from two layers of the treated fabric. This face mask also comes with elastic ear loops as well as a center flat seam to guarantee a close fit. Check out the cloth face mask today!