Find out more on how to choose the most suitable material for your self-made DIY face mask
There have been lots of interests in these self-made face masks arising from the SARS-CoV-2 pathogen causing the Covid-19 disease. Many recently are delighting in making their very own self-designed mask. Particularly now when the call is to wear a mask if one is out and about for essential tasks.
Differing views on the efficacy of the various resuable masks have been circulating on social media. Now that you have decided to finally hands-on yourself to make a mask, what material would work best, you think? After all, you do want enough protection for your family and friends.
Here's a guide to help you along decide. As a rule of thumb, cotton works for most people, including people with sensitive skin or nose. Heavy cotton that blocks light will be an ideal fabric you'd want to select. Allow a pocket to insert a filter for better capturing of the particles.
Many are creatively using HEPA vacuum cleaner filters, coffee filters or even kitchen serviette towel which contain non-woven material that is best known to work as an effective filter against particles.
And by the way, did you know? Tetrahedral shaped masks has been recommended as it offers better seal.
(Reference: Shakya, K. M., Noyes, A., Kallin, R., & Peltier, R. E. (2017). Evaluating the efficacy of cloth facemasks in reducing particulate matter exposure. Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology, 27(3), 352-357. https://doi-org.proxy.lib.ohio-state.edu/10.1038/jes.2016.42)
