DR. LINSEY MARR:
Unfortunately, there are currently no standards for masks. It’s coming, but it’s going to take a few months. Meanwhile, we know that well-woven cloth works better than loose knitted cloth. Two layers is better than one. Three layers are even better, as long as it does not prevent you from breathing easily through the fabric.
If you really want to upgrade your masks, look for a mask with a pocket or a middle layer where you can place a filter. Things like a HEPA filter, a high-efficiency particle air filter, works very well, blocking 99 percent of particles.
The other thing you can do is to use a surgical mask that filters very well, but probably does not fit so well, especially not around the sides, and to put a second mask on it, such as a sealed one. rag. mask, to improve the fit and reduce gaps. This way you get good filtration and a good fit.