As we continue to deal with threats of the COVID-19 disease, wearing face masks has become the norm.
Many countries require wearing face masks while riding public transportation, where physical separation is nearly impossible. People are also recommended to wear face masks in areas where maintaining physical distance is difficult. These include crowded shopping malls, walkways, department stores, and supermarkets.
Why Do People Wear Face Masks?
Face mask regulations are based on research that shows face masks can provide some layer of protection from germs, such as the novel coronavirus. Face masks can help prevent virus spread.
At the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, governments mandated the use of face masks. As a result of the demand exceeding the supply, disposable masks became scarce. People were forced to make their face masks, giving birth to reusable face masks.
Difference Between Disposable and Reusable Face Masks
Now that both disposable and reusable face masks are readily available, some people may be wondering how these masks compare. In this section, we will examine how face masks perform by considering several important factors.
- Protection
The primary goal of using a face mask is twofold. For starters, it can help protect the user from getting infected by the virus. Second, when asymptomatic carriers are out in public, face masks can stop them from spreading the virus to others.
Disposable surgical face masks provide excellent germ protection, including the coronavirus. However, surgical face masks are recommended for use in hospital settings and those affected by the disease. Meanwhile, N95 masks are intended for use by medical professionals.
Reusable and durable face masks are strongly recommended for everyday use and protection against Covid-19 and other viruses. After each use, simply clean and sanitize a reusable face mask.
- Cost-Effective in the Long Term
Because prolonged use lessens the effectiveness of disposable face masks, you’ll probably need more than one if you spend more than a couple of hours outside per day. And while surgical masks are relatively inexpensive, some types like N95 are not. Furthermore, as previously stated, both kinds of disposable face masks are intended for use in healthcare institutions.
Reusable face masks appear to be more costly than disposable surgical masks on the surface. However, because they are reusable, they are the less expensive choice in the long run.
The styles and designs of reusable face masks vary. People can choose between triple-layered options and two-layered options with the possibility of inserting a filter in between for added protection.
- Ease and Comfort
Disposable face masks are conventional and mass-produced. They have three fabric layers and ear loops. Surgical masks are not as comfortable as reusable masks because they are intended to fit a set size.
Reusable face masks are designed to fit tightly around the wearer’s face. There are also design choices for children and adults.
- Ecological Impact
The widespread usage of disposable masks has increased the amount of medical waste entering landfills and oceans. Because some disposable masks are made of plastic, their trash might last for centuries.
Reusable masks are excellent because they last longer if properly washed and sanitized after usage.
It’s always desirable to limit your carbon footprint, and a washable face mask can help. It’s a simple approach to keep safe while saving the planet and minimizing waste.
Conclusion
Ultimately, reusable face masks are beneficial to you and anyone around you who may be in danger. Single-use masks are also better for the environment. If you must use a face mask, choose a fabric one and reserve the medical-grade face masks for medical frontliners.