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Why You Shouldn’t Wash Your Reusable Masks Beyond 30 Times

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Beauty

Why You Shouldn’t Wash Your Reusable Masks Beyond 30 Times

And can you reuse them beyond the recommended period?

by MALAVIKA MENON  /   October 1, 2020

On Sept 1, the fourth nationwide reusable mask distribution exercise was launched to help keep the Covid-19 spread under control.

A Temasek Foundation initiative, the masks can be collected from StayMasked vending machines at about 800 locations by scanning the barcodes of an NRIC, a school smartcard, birth certificate, FIN or any government-issued identification with a barcode.

People can find out information on the closest vending machines to them at this website.

The collection over two weeks will last until Oct 4. Although a useful and sustainable alternative to single-use disposable masks, reusable masks should be washed regularly and replaced after a recommended period of time.

Here are some things to note about reusable masks.

Photos Showbit

This article was first published in The Straits Times.

 

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https://www.femalemag.com.sg/gallery/beauty/wash-frequency-reusable-face-masks/
Why You Shouldn't Wash Your Reusable Masks Beyond 30 Times
How long should I use the new reusable masks?
image

The latest masks are for daily use. Each mask can be washed up to 30 times. Infectious diseases expert Leong Hoe Nam advises users to check that the mask fits their face and cheeks well, as unfiltered air could enter through the side of a loose mask. When used on a “wear one, wash one” cycle daily, each mask kit with a pair should last for two months. After that, the masks remain usable, but their anti-microbial effectiveness and filtration are less effective.

Showbit
What is the best method to wash the reusable mask?
image

Washing and drying is simple but needs to be done correctly so the mask remains effective for a longer period of time. Use a gentle soap and lukewarm water solution. Do not use antiseptic detergent or bleach. The mask manufacturer says the masks may be soaked in water for a longer period of time to wash off stains from cosmetics. It is not advisable to use make-up remover as it may affect the protective qualities of the masks.

Showbit
How often should I wash my resuable mask?
image

The mask should be washed after each day of use, according to the guidelines given in the mask kit. Dr Leong advises users to be careful when washing the mask as aggressive washing or the use of a washboard to clean the fabric may damage it quickly

Showbit
How do I dispose of the reusable mask after the recommended period of use?
image

The face mask should be disposed of as you would a surgical mask – in a rubbish bag with other waste or in a bin. Alternatively, cleaned masks can be upcycled in various ways. For example, they can be repurposed as a cleaning cloth, a pouch for your spectacles or keys, since they are made of cotton.

Showbit
Why should I stop wearing the reusable mask after the recommended period of use?
image

Past the 30 washes, the antimicrobial as well as filtration properties of the mask become less effective. Dr Leong indicated that the mask’s effectiveness could drop between 10 and 15 per cent.

Showbit
  • TAGS:
  • covid-19
  • lifestyle
  • mask tips
  • masks
  • reusable masks
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