FAQ

Ever since our normal became apparent - the one where we're all wearing face masks every day - everyone has been asking the question: "which face masks works best for coronavirus?". We've answered that question already - and we will stress again that face masks - whether they are linen face masks or cotton face masks - are always the second line of defence when it comes to helping limit the spread of coronavirus. Hand washing and social distancing are the most important factors.  But many people now have another question: are face shields better than mask? Face shields are...

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently advised that wearing a mask during exercise is not necessary. They shared a Facebook post with the cartoon below which has caused some confusion. It’s important to note that simply wearing a mask is not enough. Social distancing and regular handwashing are the two most important things to do. A face mask can be helpful, though, which is why the WHO advice might be a bit confusing.  Also important is to note that your country might have its own rules and regulations about the use of face masks when running or exercising. What we...

In many countries around the world, face masks are becoming part of everyone’s daily outfit. It’s important to remember that regular hand washing and social distancing are the two most important interventions when it comes to curbing the spread of COVID-19. That said, masks are very helpful and as the world slowly “opens up” again, many of will wear them. Because of that, you might be wondering which masks are reusable, so that you can keep the environment in mind when buying your face mask. The majority of non-medical masks are reusable, provided you follow the care instructions and you...

It is important to note that there is no mask that can completely protect you from contracting coronavirus. A face mask, while helpful, should not be the primary preventative measure. Frequent and correct handwashing, as well as social distancing combined with wearing a mask, can reduce the risk. While all masks offer some protection in a way, some masks are better than others. The surgical grade N95 respirators offer the highest level of protection against Covid-19 infection. However, these masks are expensive, cannot be recycled and are not designed to be worn for extended periods. In countries where wearing a...

Some facemasks can expire and have a best-before date. These face masks that might "expire" are the N95 filtering facepiece respirators. While they will have a date for use on them, they will still offer some protection even after they "expire" - but it will not be as effective. Therefore, it is so important for healthcare workers to be equipped with these specific masks. Dr. John Balmes, professor of environmental health science at Berkeley Public Health recently told Business Insider that they do not expire in terms of their most basic function - to cover the wearer's face and mouth...

Not only can re-usable masks be cleaned and washed, but it is also encouraged that you do so after each wear. If you feel that you might have been exposed to a virus – if somebody sneezes on you while you are standing in line somewhere, for example – you should take extra care. In such cases, it’s best to rather dispose of your mask in a plastic bag and wash your hands thoroughly after doing so. You should do this as soon as you arrive at your chosen destination. If you do not want to dispose of your mask,...