Fabric mask: use and care instructions

Wash before use

A fabric mask is not like a surgical or FFP2 mask, but used properly, it can help to reduce the risk of transmission of the virus by protecting the wearer from drops of saliva coming from people around and also by protecting people the wearer will meet. (Don’t forget some persons can be infected and not show symptoms but still can be contagious for others). The mask also helps preventing the wearer from touching his face. It is then useful for a domestic use and can be worn a few hours, for example to run errands.

This mask does not replace the measures of social distancing, hand washing etc…

Place the mask high on the nose bridge (it should not ‘fall down’ the tip of the nose) and open it until it goes slightly under the chin. Ideally the ‘hollow’ of the fold should be downwards to unfold the mask easily. This mask is reversible but it is important to be aware of the outer side because it’s the side exposed to external contamination. Don’t consider the inner side (in contact with your face) is clean though because you can be infected and not show symptoms, hence the importance of handling the mask carefully and washing hands before and after use.

Once the mask is placed and while using it, don’t touch it because the external side will possibly be contaminated.

To remove it, only touch the elastic bands, making sure you don’t touch the fabric. Iron it using max temperature for a few minutes each side, without ironing the elastic bands to avoid damaging them, to ‘decontaminate’ it. Wash it regularly with warm water and soap and avoid using the washing machine at hot temperature or the elastic bands won’t last long. Some advise 60° washing machine programs but other experts say the virus is altered by the use of soap/detergent without using hot temperature. Ironing at max temperature for more safety is a good addition to the washing measures.