How to wear two masks properly – and other mask fitting tips according to recent CDC advice

New mask advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – related to a new study – focuses on ensuring that masks fit correctly to better prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The CDC has studied whether wearing two masks offers more protection than one and found that it does. The researchers found that wearing one mask – surgical or cloth – blocked about 40% of the particles that went to the head that inhaled. When a cloth mask was worn on top of a surgical mask, about 80% were blocked.

Here’s a look at the CDC’s advice and some tips on how to mask properly.

Double masks

What to do: Lay a cloth mask on top of a surgical or medical procedure. It helps the whole setup fit better and eliminates gaps on the sides of the face or nose. Make sure the fit is comfortable and that there are no gaps.

What not to do: Do ​​not combine two disposable masks that are not designed to fit snugly. If you wear more than one disposable mask at a time, it will not get any better. Also, do not wear a KN95 mask, a type of face mask that is commonly made in China, with any other mask.

Cloth Mask Box: Choose a cloth mask that consists of multiple layers of tightly woven, breathable fabric that also contains a nasal thread that can help improve the mask’s fit. Does the mask block light if you hold it against a bright light source? Then it’s a good construction.

Do not do cloth mask: Stay away from any cloth mask that contains an exhalation valve or vent, which can cause respiratory droplets to leak into or out of a mask.

Knotted ruffles

What to do: The CDC recommends that you knot, fold and then insert the overlays of 3-layer masks for a better fit – so that the edges of the mask fit tighter on your face. First, fold the mask in half lengthwise and align the corners and edges. Second, tie a knot with the elastic loops as close as possible to the mask, according to an instructional video from UNC Health of the University of North Carolina. Then bend the metal nose shape so that it fits the shape of your nose. The knot will then puff out the sides of the mask near the tied ruffles. Fold the puffed edges into a crease so that it lies flat on your cheek. Make sure it fits snugly when you put on the mask.

What not to do: Do ​​not wear more than one disposable mask at a time, it does not improve the fit. Handle the mask only with its earmuffs, ropes or head straps – not on the surface of the mask.

What about KN95: A KN95 does not have to adjust the straps. Ideally, this type of mask can filter up to 95% of particles in the air, but counterfeit KN95 masks make it difficult to distinguish real KN95s from fake by just looking at them. Do not wear a KN95 mask with an exhalation valve, which may cause respiratory drops to leak into or out of the mask. If you have facial hair, this type of mask may not fit well. Do not combine a KN95 mask with another KN95 mask or any other mask.

Nylon cover

What to do: Other studies have found that placing a sleeve made of bare nylon stocking material around the neck and pulling it over a cloth or surgical mask has significantly improved the wearer’s protection by tightening the mask on the face. adjust and reduce edge gaps.

Mask strut

What to do: Air leaks around the edges of a cloth or surgical mask can be reduced by laying one of these devices on top of a cloth mask for a better fit. A recent study showed that when a solid or elastic fit is worn over a surgical mask, it can potentially increase the wearer’s protection for aerosols by 90%. A mask prop can be purchased online or made of elastics. Former Apple Product Design Engineer Sabrina Paseman, behind fixthemask.com, has posted a tutorial outlining the steps: First, connect three elastics together. Second, place the middle elastic in front of the mask around the chin and nose. Adjust the fit and do a CDC seal check.

Other mask advice to keep in mind:

When to wear one

‣ Wear a mask when in a public place. Children under 2 years of age and people who cannot safely wear a mask due to a disability or an underlying medical condition should not wear a mask.

‣ Masks are required on airplanes, buses, trains and other forms of public transportation when traveling to, inside or outside the United States from February 2nd.

‣ Wear a mask if you will be near people who do not live with you.

‣ If someone you live with is ill with COVID-19 symptoms or has tested positive for COVID-19, wear a mask in your home.

How to wear one

Wash Always wash your hands or use a disinfectant before putting on your mask and do not touch the mask while wearing it.

‣ If you wear glasses, you need to find a mask that fits well over your nose or has a nose wire to reduce the fog. You can also try using an anti-spray spray for glasses.

‣ Do not use a mask made of fabric that makes it difficult to breathe. Put on any mask that contains a respiratory tract that could allow virus particles to escape. And leave the N95 respirators for health workers, says the CDC.

What to do in cold weather

Wear a mask under your scarf, ski mask or balaclava – these items are not a substitute for a mask.

‣ Change your mask when it gets wet. A wet mask is harder to breathe through, is less effective at filtering and ventilation openings are more around the edges of the mask. Keep a spare mask to replace one that gets wet from moisture in your breath due to snow or rain.

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