By Laura Rivera
Face masks have become the most essential accessory of 2020 to fight contagion. But in order for them to work properly, there are some common mistakes we have to avoid.
1-Wearing it on your head or neck
You might get hot, but don’t bring it down to your neck, or much less to your head, because these parts are in contact with outside particles. You should keep it in place from the moment you put it on, and not just when you enter a building.
2-Putting it in your pocket
Putting it in your pants or shirt pocket, in your bag, or carrying it in your hand is a big mistake because you’ll be contaminating your mask and your clothes, and you won’t be able to wear it again.
3-Not washing it after every use
Remember that, if your mask is reusable, you have to wash it every day with soap and water, even if you only used it briefly. It is also recommended that you own more than one, so you have no excuses not to be safe.
4-Reusing disposable face masks
If you don’t have a reusable mask, don’t reuse a disposable one. You should cut it and discard it in a bag in a sealed trash can.
5- Not washing your hands before and after use
Make sure your hands are clean if you have to rearrange it because remember that the virus enters through our airways, ears, and eyes, meaning all our mucous membranes.
6-Taking it off while touching the front
The straps on your mask aren’t just to hold it up. Before you remove your mask, wash your hands with soap and water, or at least hand gel, and take it off from the straps.
7- Covering your mouth only
You have to wear your mask properly, going from the bridge of your nose to your chin, and follow social distancing measures. It won’t do anything if you don’t cover your nose.
8-Removing it to sneeze or cough
Keep your mask on even if you cough or sneeze, and you must change it in case this happens. That’s why we should carry an extra one in a sealed bag that you can also use to store the dirty one, if you can’t discard it immediately.
Wearing a face mask is social responsibility. Not only will you be protecting yourself, but you’ll also help the world heal faster.
