The South African Department of Health has recommended that we all wear cloth masks in public to help slow the spread of the COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic. The global shortage of medical-grade masks has led to a number of innovative people taking matters into their own hands – literally. In fact, DIY face masks has become one of the most popular stay-at-home activities during the lockdown, along with baking banana bread. So whether you’re making for yourself or donating to a medical facility, here are some ways to make your own face mask at home.
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Since the beginning of the coronavirus outbreak, we’ve been told that wearing face masks in public will help prevent a person from potentially transmitting an infection to someone else.
“If everyone wears a mask, it can prevent asymptomatic carriers from inadvertently infecting other people because it can trap the virus inside the mask,” says Dr. Larry Chu of the Stanford University Medical Center. “This will help prevent the spread.”
What Is Required?
According to the Centers For Disease Control And Prevention (CDC), face masks must meet the following criteria in order to be effective:
- Fit snugly and comfortably against the side of the face
- Be secured with ties or ear loops
- Include multiple layers of fabric (at least three)
- Allow for breathing without restriction
- Be washable without damage or change to its shape
The Easy Method
This method, shared by the Department of Health, is quick and simple and doesn’t require a sewing machine.
This is another example of the easy method, shared by the CDC.
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Sewing Machine Method
If you have sewing equipment, this is another great tutorial for a DIY Mask with Nose Wire & Filter Pocket.
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Our very own woman&home Art Director, Samantha Lewis, created her own face mask using a tutorial by Dr. Chen Xiaoting, a Taiwanese anaesthesiologist, who shared his instructions on creating a three-layer cloth face mask.
In his tutorial, the doctor describes how the mask’s secret weapon lies in the middle layer. He inserted an item that could act as a filter or a ‘microfibre melt-blown non-woven fabric,’ which makes the mask washable and reusable. This can be something like gauze, paper towel or tissue paper.
However, Dr Chen warns that washing your hands is still the first line of defence against contracting the disease. “Wash your hands properly, avoid crowded areas, and clean commonly touched surfaces,” he says.
Have you made your own face mask yet? Share your creations with us.
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Compiled by Food and Decor Editor, Claire Badenhorst
