Take steps to protect yourself and the people around you from the coronavirus — create a cloth facemask. This mask can slow the spread of the virus in your community by protecting those around you should you have the virus but not be feeling symptoms of COVID-19.
When to wear a facemask
Your facemask is not a surgical mask or an N-95 respirator, but it does provide some protection against the coronavirus. Wear it in public where other physical distancing measures are difficult, such as in grocery stores and especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.
Do’s and don’ts with facemasks
Don’t place a facemask on children younger than two years, anyone who has trouble breathing, or someone who is unconscious, incapacitated, or unable to remove the mask without help.
Tips for fitting your facemask for maximum protection
The facemask should fit snugly but comfortably against the sides of the face.
It should be secured with ties or ear loops.
It should include multiple layers of fabric.
It should allow for breathing with restriction.
Wearing a facemask
When you wear a facemask, wear it fully over your nose and mouth. Do not expose your nose or mouth while wearing the facemask — for example do not pull it off your face and let it rest below your chin.
Taking off your facemask
Taking off your facemask can be dangerous. Hold it only by the elastic loops. Place it immediately in your washing machine without touching the outward-facing front of the mask. Wash your hands immediately after removing.
Taking care of your facemask = taking care of yourself
Your facemask should be able to be laundered and machine-dried without damage or change to its shape. Launder and dry your facemask after each use with hot water and at your dryer’s hot setting.
