According to experts, how to properly clean face masks

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If you're like me, you probably have a lot of questions about cleaning your sheet masks. Since face masks don't go anywhere anytime soon, we'd better learn how to clean them properly to make sure they are as effective as possible.

To learn more about how to properly clean face masks at home, we spoke to Diann Peart, Ph.D., Founder and CEO of Truce , and Dr. Michelle Henry , a New York-based dermatologist. Read on for answers to some of your biggest questions.

How do I clean my fabric mask?

Sheet masks are the most common type of face mask and the easiest to clean, according to Peart. "They should be hand washed or washed in the washing machine in hot, soapy water, then you can put the mask in the dryer," she says.

Cleaning your mask is important not only to reduce the spread of germs, but it can also help you avoid skin irritation and skin problems like maskne .

"Washable masks and other materials for face coverings should regularly (eg. As daily and when soiled) with water and a mild detergent such as Tide Free & Gentle wash" , says Dr. Henry. . "A clean mask keeps your skin clean."

How often should i wash my mask?

Unfortunately, now is not the time for a lazy beauty routine. "Most experts recommend washing and drying the mask after each use," says Peart In The Know. "Make sure you wash your hands before and after handling the mask in case there are virus drops on the face of the mask."

If you have masks in between face washes then you can still get disposable masks , cloth masks and even cloth masks that our editors use on a daily basis .

Photo credit: Getty

Should I hand or machine wash my mask?

Peart says washing hands or machine washing is enough. "According to the CDC, masks need to be washed based on how often you use them, so if you wear your mask for running or work every day, wash it every day," he says.

Personally, I like to wash my mask off with a small brush, mainly to remove makeup and lipstick residue.

When should I throw away my mask?

Just because you wash your masks all the time doesn't mean it isn't time to throw them away. "If your mask is dirty or damaged, you have to throw it away," says Peart, although he does not recommend throwing it away.

"Don't throw your dirty or damaged mask in the trash. It can contain dangerous germs, "he adds. "Wash the mask, dry it on the highest setting, fold it up, put it in a sealed plastic bag, and then throw it away." Always remember to wash your hands before and after handling the face shield. ""

What can my face mask clean?

Surprisingly, UV rays can clean your face masks and other surfaces. " Ultraviolet rays can disinfect your mask . There are special machines that can be used, but it is rare for them to be at home."

However, Peart recommends that you use extreme care when cleaning your masks with UV rays as this has its limitations. "Since UV rays can only disinfect what shines, the shadows cast by the tiny folds of a mask could prevent those stains from being decontaminated," he advises.

You can also use natural sources like sunlight if you have a little more free time. "When you have the time, sunlight is great, but it takes a long time," says Peart. "For the time it would take, you'd better put a mask in a brown paper bag and hang it on a well-ventilated porch for seven days. The pathogen will be dead anyway. ""

Can i lighten my mask?

While many of us think that bleach is the best germicidal agent, it carries great risks as an irritant to the body and respiratory system. Essentially not. "While bleach is great for disinfecting hard surfaces or cleaning towels and bed linen, even dilute bleach is not a recommended cleanser for face masks." Peart explains. "Bleach is irritating to the respiratory tract, so avoid wearing it in masks."

If you enjoyed this story, check out some of the other tips we gave on dealing with facial irritation from wearing a mask .

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