Disposable Face Masks
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Disposable face masks are essential today, particularly for healthcare workers and employees who deal with the public on a regular basis. Prevent contamination and keep yourself and others safe and healthy with a disposable protective face mask. Learn more about your options for disposable face masks, how to wear one, and how to properly discard one below.
What Is a Disposable Face Mask?
A disposable face mask is a covering designed to protect the wearer from contamination when in proximity to harmful viruses, bacteria, or germs. Preventing contamination is especially effective when you wear both a mask and disposable gloves. A mask acts as a physical barrier between the mouth and nose of the user and any potential contaminators. When worn correctly, a disposable face mask can protect the wearer from sprays, splatters, or droplets carried through the air, preventing any dangerous particles from entering the mouth or nose.
After the first use, this type of mask should be discarded, as disposable face masks are not meant to be used more than once. However, disposable masks are more convenient since you don’t have to wash them between uses like reusable face masks.
How to Pick the Best Disposable Face Mask
The best face mask should always fit snugly to the face. To wear a mask properly, buy a disposable face mask that leaves no gap between the mask and your cheeks, nose, and chin. There are several disposable masks made with aluminum nose clips to keep the mask as close to the face as possible, while still keeping you comfortable. It’s also important to find a disposable face mask that fits properly around the ears to ensure snugness and comfort of the wearer. Some masks are also made with cushioned elastic earloops for maximum comfort.
The material a disposable face mask is made of should be taken into consideration when picking out the best face mask as well. A disposable protective mask is often made with multiple layers of protection, mixing both non-woven, non-stick, and other kinds of fabrics to ensure the proper protection of the wearer. Disposable masks often have a three- or four-ply design to provide further protection. Disposable face masks can also include a slot for filters to ensure the wearer is breathing the cleanest air possible.
How to Safely Discard a Disposable Face Mask
A disposable face mask is intended to ideally only be worn once and then discarded. When a disposable face mask becomes soiled, damaged, or begins hindering the wearer’s breathing, it means it’s absolutely time for a new face mask. To safely dispose of a face mask, follow these steps:
- Remove the disposable face mask carefully. Avoid touching your face when doing so.
- Place the mask in a plastic bag.
- Ensure the plastic bag is properly sealed, and then throw the disposable mask into the trash.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap.