The outbreak of the corona virus has put the world in a state of fear and suspicion ,where we all have to walk around in face masks. These masks have become so necessary that they are now part of our daily attire, be it at the market place, work place, religious institutions, even at our homes.

We now need them in plenty especially for the fashion fanatics, who would love to match their masks with their outfits. I have good news! You can make your own face mask at home using cloth pieces. The cloth face mask is as conducive as the other types of masks but they are better since they can actually match up with your outfit and are more affordable.  These can also be reused since they are washable , unlike the  surgical masks that tend to lose their grip when washed.

The cloth face masks can be made out of any piece of cloth, most preferably cotton. There a different types of clothes suitable for making cloth face masks ,e.g.; bandanas, sheets and T-shirts. These are some of the  things to note when making the cloth face mask;

• Thickness

The cloth face mask should contain a number of layers. The purpose of the mask is for protection from pathogens and contaminants in the air. So no matter how pretty the mask is, if it does not serve its purpose then it is of no use. Putting in a filter is an extra advantage to the user. Avoid masks with valves at the front. Even though they make it easy for you to breathe, they do not filter exhaled air so when the user is infected, the people around him are still not safe.

• Fitness

Research has shown that leakages at the sides of the mask counter the efficiency of the filtering of the mask by more than 50%. A mask that fits efficiently will hug your chin , nose and cheeks  with no gaps. It should completely cover your nose and mouth . When you have a perfectly fitting mask it prevents you from touching it from time to time, trying to readjust it , especially when talking. Masks that have a bendable nose strip help in maintaining a firm grip and hold the mask in place.

How to wear a cloth face mask

1) Wash your hands with soap and water , or use a hand  sanitizer before and after wearing or removing your mask.

2). Place your mask over your mouth and nose.

3). Tie it behind your head and ensure it snugs.

4)  Don't touch the mask while wearing it.

5) If you accidentally touch your mask , wash your hands or sanitize.

6) If your mask gets dirty or wet, switch it with a different one and put the used one in a sealable bag until you are able to wash it.

7) Remove the mask by untying it and avoid touching your face or the front of the mask.

8) Wash your hands immediately.

9) make sure you regularly wash your mask using soap and water.

The best mask  is one that filters both small and large particles and droplets suspended in the air.  There is a trick that can be used to test if your mask is offering you the protection required.  This is by blowing off a candle while wearing the mask. An efficient mask will prevent you from putting the flame out.

This is however not an assurance that one is completely safe  from diseases.  You therefore have to apply other measures of controlling the spread of the illness and keeping oneself and their loved ones safe. Always ensure you sanitize and maintain social distance.

The cloth face masks are more affordable and available compared to the surgical masks and equally conducive. Some sites give people instructions in how to make one from home. Get information on how to make an attractive and  effective face mask on your own. It will be much easier than you think.