Mission Hospital Talks Cloth Masks 101, What To Know

MISSION VIEJO, CA — Months into the coronavirus pandemic, wearing masks is almost second nature to us. We keep them in the car, wadded up in your purse or backpack, with many more at home drying on the line after a thorough washing. With no end of the coronavirus outbreak in sight, masks are now part of everyday culture.

But are we wearing them correctly?

The doctors at Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, and the CDC, want to educate you on how to fit your mask correctly, and how to properly remove and care for your mask.

How to properly wear a mask:

• Wash your hands before putting on your mask
• Put it over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin
• Try to fit it snugly against the sides of your face
• Make sure you can breathe easily
• CDC does not recommend use of masks or cloth masks for source control if they have an exhalation valve or vent

Wear a Mask to Protect Others

• Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth to help protect others in case you’re infected with COVID-19 but don’t have symptoms
• Wear a mask in public settings when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when it may be difficult for you to stay six feet apart
• Wear a mask correctly for maximum protection
• Don’t put the mask around your neck or up on your forehead
• Don’t touch the mask, and, if you do, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer to disinfect

Take Off Your Mask Carefully, When You’re Home

• Untie the strings behind your head or stretch the ear loops
• Handle only by the ear loops or ties
• Fold outside corners together
• Place mask in the washing machine (learn more about how to wash masks)
• Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth when removing and wash hands immediately after removing.

Stuffing it in the glove box isn't the greatest idea, after all.

Show your mask! use the hashtag #maskupoc