Due to the impact of the coronavirus, there has been a significant shortage of essential medical supplies. This includes surgical face masks and N95 respirator masks. The U.S. government has recommended that all residents wear a face mask when going outside. Wearing cloth face masks can help prevent the spread of infection.
While it is challenging to get ahold of these products, it is still possible to make your own CDC-approved face-covering using products that you can find at home!
Here is how to make your own CDC approved face covering:
Supplies:
- Cotton T-Shirt
- Scissors
- Start by laying the t-shirt on a flat surface. Smooth out the material so you can get an even cut.
- Next, measure 7 inches wide from the bottom of the shirt and cut that material off.
- With the 7 inches wide material, cut a half an inch wide strip at the top and bottom of the fabric. These strips will be used as ties to secure the mask to your face.
- Once you have cut the strips, cut the excess fabric around them so that there is an 8-inch wide piece of material to cover your face.
- Cut the sides of the stips that are still connected, so you have two strips for the bottom and two strips for the top.
- Use the strips to secure the mask around your face.
Be sure to clean your face mask after use routinely. You can wash it by hand with laundry detergent or put it in the washer machine.
Here is another way to make an easy no-sew mask:
Supplies:
- Cotton Bandanna
- Two elastic hair ties or rubber bands
- Start by laying the bandanna on a flat surface.
- Next, fold the bandanna in half.
- Now fold the top and bottom in thirds, so you end up with a flat piece of fabric.
- Guide the material through one elastic on one side. Repeat on the other side. The elastics should be about 7 inches apart.
- Not fold the ends inward and fold them in and use the elastics to secure the mask around your ears.
This is a simple face mask that can be made in minutes. Be sure to always wash your mask after wearing it.
When wearing a face mask, it is important to avoid adjusting it. The purpose is to protect your face, so if you continue to touch your face and adjust the mask, you can potentially spread germs from your hands. When removing a face mask, always untie it or remove the elastics from around your ears. Never remove the mask by tugging down on the mouth covering.
These face coverings, along with safe hygiene practices and social distancing, can help slow the spread of the virus.
Here are a few other important things to remember:
- Wash your hands frequently. Although hand sanitizer is an easy way to kill germs, it is not a replacement for soap and water. Hand washing is most effective when removing bacteria.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and try to stay home as much as possible.
- If you do have to go out, be sure to cover your face and wash your hands as soon as you come home.
We hope these recommendations will help keep you and your family safe during these times.
BEK Medical provides high-quality medical supplies, mobility devices, and other products for those in need.
Be sure to check our blog for more healthy lifestyle tips!
