1. THE FABRICS MATTER
While you see mask in all colours and shapes, what is important is that the 3 layers (no more than that please!!!) consist of materials which have the following characteristics: 1) Inner layer of a hydrophilic material 2) Middle hydrophobic layer of synthetic non-woven material - enhances filtration 3) Outer layer made of hydrophobic material - helps limit external contamination Check out this NST article or this World Health Organization (WHO) document!
2. THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
You should consider the environmental impact of disposable face masks which have a long lifespan of approximately 450 years after they are discarded, ending up in landfills or oceans. Read more here!
3. BACTERIAL PROOF IS NOT VIRUS PROOF!
You will see lots of products and mask advertising their antibacterial lab test or characteristics, while this is a great feature to have, it does not mean the products protect from COVID-19. Check out this fact checked article to learn more.
4. MEDICAL MASK STANDARDS
We mentioned that bacterial test are not relevant for COVID-19 filtration, so what should I look for then? Medical masks are tested for their ability to block droplets and particles (3 micrometers and 0.1 micrometers in size respectively). If you see this on your mask you know your reusable mask has been tested as per the standards of a medical face mask.
5. SIMPLE WATER TEST
As you might have heard the COVID19 virus travels on water droplets e.g. when you sneeze, so to make sure your mask is water proof goes a long way. Just test it out, fill water into your mask and wait!
NEED HELP WITH CORPORATE FACE MASKS?
At Designer Uniforms by Melinda Looi, we offer Reusable and Customizable Face Masks for your employees and customers. Our masks are internationally lab tested.
Contact us for a free consultation or find our more here: