04-22-2022, 03:07 PM
Whatever you do, don't rely on a fabric mask alone any more. They're good at protecting others from your respiratory droplets, but not at protecting you against theirs, even with a filter pocket. "I would say people should choose disposable masks, not cloth," Lahita said. "A cloth face mask is better than no mask if you don't have access to the disposable ones. It helps protect others if you sneeze or cough -- but it's less effective than the disposable version or the N95 face mask, especially because many people don't wash their cloth masks often."
Another way to maximize protection is to double mask with a cloth and surgical mask. If you can't find an N95, KN95 or KF94, Bollinger said, "a good-quality disposable mask under a cloth mask is a reasonable alternative, as long as the fit on the face, nose and mouth is tight." You can also put an N95, KN95 or KF94 under a regular disposable mask for a tighter seal.
For what I feel are low-risk situations, I do use a cloth mask over a procedure/surgical mask.
That may change if/when there's an uptick in cases.
But I were a mask always, when stepping out the door.
I acclimated early on, and finding masks that fit well with glasses helped.
One day I won't have to, but for now I assume that day may never come.
Another way to maximize protection is to double mask with a cloth and surgical mask. If you can't find an N95, KN95 or KF94, Bollinger said, "a good-quality disposable mask under a cloth mask is a reasonable alternative, as long as the fit on the face, nose and mouth is tight." You can also put an N95, KN95 or KF94 under a regular disposable mask for a tighter seal.
For what I feel are low-risk situations, I do use a cloth mask over a procedure/surgical mask.
That may change if/when there's an uptick in cases.
But I were a mask always, when stepping out the door.
I acclimated early on, and finding masks that fit well with glasses helped.
One day I won't have to, but for now I assume that day may never come.