How Often Do We Need to Change Mask?

How Often Do We Need to Change Mask? – Now we are living in constant fear. All of us are trying our best to stay safe and prevent infection. We are taking many precautionary measures to protect ourselves from Covid-19 and many other infections.

Needless to mention, masks have become a part of our life. But are you using it right? Do you think your mask can protect yourself from an infection?

Your mind is still under clouds, right? Even if we are wearing masks, we cannot get the best protection without following some basic guidelines. We should know how often we need to change masks. It is important to wear masks.

At the same time, you need to change masks to get the right protection. In this article, we will know more about the mask and when you need to change it.

How Often Should You Change Mask?

Like any other cloth, your mask will start to deteriorate after a while. Deteriorate means it will not be that effective. Ask yourself a simple question: why do you need a mask? You need a mask to protect yourself from all the viruses and germs present in the surrounding.

When it will lose this ability, you cannot expect the same benefit. A mask cushion will start leaking once it is worn out. Some of them might lose elasticity and can cause discomfort as well. If you use a mask that is in proper condition, you will find it comfortable to wear.

When it comes to the replacement, it will depend on the type of mask and frequency of usage. Also, your skin type will have a role. For example, if you have oily skin and you sweat much, then you might need to change your mask more often.

As there is no ground role to change a mask, you should consider a few factors to decide. You should inspect your mask and follow all the cleaning guidance mentioned by the manufacturer.

You will find the instructions regarding cleaning, maintaining, and replacing your mask. Follow the instructions carefully to know when a replacement is due. Also, know the frequency of usage. If you are using your mask regularly, you might need to change it more frequently.

What Are The Signs To Look For?

If you are looking for signs to change your mask, you can check any deterioration sign. Cushion damage, discoloration, cracking, tears, and crazing are some noticeable signs.

Whenever you notice any of these signs, you should realize that it is time to change your mask. Here are some other signs that you can consider to go through.

• You will have to change your mask when you find it hard to get the best fit. When you need more effort to tighten your mask straps, you can think of the replacement.

• When the mask does not feel springy or soft, you need to change your mask. Stiff masks might not be that effective.

• The cushion feels slippery and is not offering the required protection

• You feel that your mask is not effective to serve the purpose

• Showing the signs of tear, breaks, and cracks

• The cushion is no longer effective and comfortable

These are a few conditions that you should look for to change a mask. Even if a replacement is not due, you will have to focus on the regular upkeep to maintain its efficiency. You should never wear a mask when the cushion is damaged.

Also, when the fitting is not proper, you will not get the required protection.

While wearing your mask, you will have to follow some principles as well. For example, if you are stepping out and talking to different people, you can change your mask soon after reaching home.

Also, make sure that you are not touching your mask in a public place. A mask can work as a lifesaver when maintained and used properly. However, if you do not wear it right and follow some usage instructions, it will not help you in any manner.

How Often Do We Need to Change Mask? – Conclusion

For the disposable mask, you should change it every day. For a reusable mask, you should change your reusable mask whenever it loses its efficiency. When you find that the mask is damaged or not giving the comfort fit, you can change it. Also, you should clean your mask every day after coming home. We never know who the carrier is.