The use of face mask has now become mandatory in the different places in the United States as they slowly open their economy under Phase 1 and experts advice on how to properly use, remove, and wash reusable facemasks according to a recently published article.


Mandatory Use of Face Mask Under Phase 1 

More states in the country have now slowly opened its economy under Phase 1. This is part of the three phases before that every state should strategically implement before they can have 100 percent of their economy back to normal. 

However, there measures that everyone must strictly follow under this Phase. These are the mandatory use of face mask, strict observance of social distancing, and congregation of more than ten people is still not allowed, but in some states, they do not allow more than five people to gather. 

Meanwhile, due to the insufficient supply of surgical masks, more people are now using reusable facemasks. This means that anyone using a reusable facemask should know how to use, remove, and wash it properly.


Proper Use, Removal, and Washing of Reusable Facemasks

Health Officials and experts offered and demonstrated ways on how to use and wash reusable facemasks properly. Infectious Disease expert Dr. Yves Van Laethem, Francophone spokesperson for the COVID-19 task force, also offered the same to the people.

Dr. Laethem said: "It is not obvious, and we need to talk about it, and the best way to talk about it is by demonstrating." 

According to the infectious disease expert, these are the things that you should know:


How to put on a facemask?

The rule of thumb is always to make sure that you wash your hands before touching your face—the same thing as well in putting a facemask. Make sure to wash your hands with water and soap or with a hydroalcoholic gel before putting a face mask, according to Dr. Laethem.

He said: "Touch only the mask's laces or elastics straps; avoid touching it on the part that goes over our mouth and then place it over your face in such a way that your airways, your nose, and mouth, are adequately covered." 

He also added that to make sure that the facemask is worn correctly, the chin needed to be under the mask's cover. To adjust the facemask, just pinch it around the nose and pull it down slightly. 


How long can a facemask be worn? 

Facemasks should be worn for a maximum of eight hours. In some cases, it depends on someone who is using it. An example of this is a teacher who needs to speak a lot. A teacher needs to replace his or her face masks after four hours if it gets dirty or wet. 

Another advice also from the infectious disease expert is to avoid touching it because it will contaminate the facemasks. If it began falling, then adjust it by touching the outer edges of facemasks.


How to remove facemask?

This is what Dr. Laethem said: "When you have removed your mask, throw it away if it is a disposable mask or store it to be washed later. If you need to remove your mask temporarily -to eat or drink something - take it off and place it on a clean surface that you will be able to clean afterward."

Additionally, remove your facemasks just like on how you put it on. Grab it through their elastic straps or laces.


How to wash reusable fabric facemasks?

Dr. Laethem said: "Face masks should be machine washed at 60 degrees Celcius with conventional detergent - you don't need any particular disinfectants."

Another option also is to put the facemask in a pot with simmering water or to iron it in a temperature that the virus cannot survive. Take note also not to put inside the fridge your facemasks because the virus can live longer in cold climates.

Most of all, it is essential to remember that you have to wash your hands with water and soap or use alcohol before touching the facemasks to reduce contamination. It should become a habit. 


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