How to Wash Face Masks: A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Your Face Mask Properly From the CDC by 30Seconds Health

Family Health
3 years ago

How to Wash Face Masks: A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Your Face Mask Properly From the CDC

Face masks are an additional step to help slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) when combined with every day preventive actions and social distancing in public settings. Masks should be washed after each use. It is important to always remove masks correctly and wash your hands after handling or touching a used mask.

How to Clean Your Face Mask

Washing Machine

  • You can include your mask with your regular laundry.
  • Use regular laundry detergent and the warmest appropriate water setting for the cloth used to make the mask.

Washing by Hand

  • Prepare a bleach solution by mixing: 5 tablespoons (1/3 cup) household bleach per gallon of room temperature water or 4 teaspoons household bleach per quart of room temperature water.
  • Check the label to see if your bleach is intended for disinfection. Some bleach products, such as those designed for safe use on colored clothing, may not be suitable for disinfection. Ensure the bleach product is not past its expiration date. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser.
  • Soak the mask in the bleach solution for 5 minutes.
  • Rinse thoroughly with cool or room temperature water.

Make sure to completely dry mask after washing.

How to Dry Your Face Mask

Dryer

  • Use the highest heat setting and leave in the dryer until completely dry.

Air Dry

  • Lay flat and allow to completely dry. If possible, place the mask in direct sunlight.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

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Bleach $2 & Up
Face Masks $4 & Up
Hand Sanitizer $3 & Up
Hand Soap $2 & Up

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Donna John
I didn't know you were supposed to wash after each use. If I'm indoors, I haven't been washing it every time. Outside in the 100-plus degree weather, I wash after wearing for sure. I wash mine in the washing machine, and like to hang outside to dry.
Elisa Schmitz
This is really helpful. I don't think many people realize this. Thank you for sharing!
rebecca zamolo
i hate wearing face mask you can barely breath throungh them things
bepositive
Great tips for this new mask wearer! 😷
Gwen Johnson
I'm going to have to break down and buy a new mask. Even washing it all the time, it's now stained with makeup. Yuck. That contributes to maskne.

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