Mouth And Nose Mask: Wear, Wash And Store Correctly

A mouth and nose mask reduces the risk of infecting other people with viruses, bacteria, and other germs. However, wearing a mouth and nose cover only makes sense if it is used correctly.

What a mouth-nose mask brings – and what not

The most effective protection against virus transmission is still maintaining a minimum distance of 1.5 meters from other people and the hygiene regulations, above all proper, thorough hand washing with soap. However, a mouth and nose protector (MNS) or cover can also reduce the separation of larger droplets that are produced when coughing, sneezing, or speaking and thus protect other people from infection.

Important to know: A conventional mouth-nose mask, for example, made of fabric, primarily protects the surrounding people, but only slightly protects the wearer. If used incorrectly, the mouth and nose cover even poses some dangers – namely when you touch the mask to check or correct the fit. Due to the enormous heat under the mask, one is often tempted to push it under the chin in the meantime. And that’s exactly where you grab where it becomes dangerous – the mucous membranes.

In order to guarantee the protective barrier, the masks should therefore be properly cared for – also to free them from droplets from other people. In addition, you should have several masks that are worn alternately by just one person. Because breathing air, sneezing and coughing not only settle some unpleasant microorganisms in the mask. Moisture is also created, which means that the mask loses its protective effect.

Put on, wear and store the mouth-nose mask correctly

Pull rubber bands over your ears and the mouth-nose mask is ready? It’s not that easy. Because when using it, you have to pay attention to a few details.

• Before putting on the mask, you should wash your hands thoroughly with soap or at least disinfect them.
• When putting it on, only touch the straps if possible, but not the inside of the mouth-nose mask.
• The term “mouthguard” is common, but misleading. Because the mask must be placed over the mouth, nose and cheeks. Only if it fits snugly around the edges can little air get in at the sides.
• Avoid tugging at the mask unnecessarily. You should also not touch the outside with your hands when carrying it.
• Change the mouth and nose cover as soon as it gets wet. You should therefore always carry a second mask with you when you are out and about.
• After weaning, clean your hands thoroughly again and keep the mask airtight until you wash it.
• Disposable items and damaged masks should be disposed of with household waste after use.

Wash, dry, and disinfect the mouth and nose mask properly

In the washing machine, in the oven, with the iron, or in the microwave? We explain how best to keep your mouth and nose mask hygienic.

Wash – and nice and hot!

After wearing, the fabric mask (whether bought or sewn yourself) should be washed at least 60 degrees Celsius with heavy-duty detergent. You can also use bleach for the wash cycle – this kills microorganisms better than conventional color or delicate detergents.

Dry and sterilize

If the fabric allows it, you should put the mouth and nose cover in the tumble dryer at the highest possible temperature after washing. If you don’t have one, you can also disinfect the mouth and nose mask by ironing it at at least 165 degrees or sterilizing it in the oven at 70 to 80 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes.

Disinfecting in the microwave? Not a good idea!

According to the German Society for Hospital Hygiene (DGKH), the effectiveness of disinfection in the microwave is not known. Therefore, although it is convenient, you should refrain from this method. Especially when thin metal parts are incorporated into the masks. These can melt quickly in the microwave and sparks can form.

Store

It is best to hang up the mask where it will not come into contact with objects or people until it is used and where it can dry well.

Tip: Use the hook on a hanging cabinet. There it hangs freely and is always ready to hand when it is needed.

Would you like more hygiene tips for the household? Read with us how to effectively remove limescale in the kitchen and bathroom!