Tips for using our face masks
We wanted to update our customers who have purchased our face coverings. The way you use and care for your mask greatly affects it's effectiveness. Please note these suggestions are based on online research and our own wear. We recommend you do your own research to keep safe and to ensure it works for you, your face shape and medical needs..
Please see our tips below.
Adding an additional layer:
The World Health Organisation has recommended that masks have three layers (fabric dependent). The UK government suggests that ideally two layers or more is best. Our masks come with a small pocket where you are able to insert a small additional third layer. This can be something disposable which is changed each time. You can purchase a variety of mask filters online, or there are some household items which can be used (see this link for tests on different household materials and material efficiency https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7294826/).
If you'd like to use another layer of fabric inside, research suggests layering fabrics of different (higher) densities. As our masks are made of cotton, you may wish to add a synthetic layer in between. Silk has also shown to be an effective layer. If using a fabric inner you can sew this layer into the mask and it can be washed as usual.
Comfortable fit:
Having worn our own masks daily for some time now, we also wanted to share some tips we've found from wearing ours. Face shapes will vary fit, so these are just some notes from our experiences.
You may find wearing the mask upside down gives a better fit, especially as masks can move when talking.
If you prefer wearing masks around your ears, it's best to tie a double knot in the ties (on either side) whilst not on your face and then fit around ears. This should fit tighter and hold better. Adjust until it fits correctly and you can keep this knot in place for future uses and during washing for ease.
You can also try to tie a sliding knot - this method is quick and easy.
You can purchase reusable nose clips to go over your mask if you have gaps in this area.
If you use the ties around your head (rather than around the ears), it may be more secure to do the top tie high on top of your head rather than at the back at eye level.
Wash and care:
This site has a quick guide on the best practice for washing and storing your masks.
https://www.which.co.uk/reviews/face-masks/article/face-mask-using-guide-how-to-wear-store-and-wash-your-face-covering-properly-aQkvZ8U4ytu7
We hope you have found our masks to work well for you and we hope you stay safe and protected during these times.
Please do get in touch with us if you have any further questions.