MASK FAQ

Q: Why should I make or wear a face covering?

The CDC recommends wearing a face covering to prevent the spread of respiratory infections. These infections occur due to transmission of small particles and large respiratory droplets from the nose or mouth. These particles can be spread through the air by simply being in close proximity (i.e. talking) near another person, or can spread when respiratory droplets land on a nearby surface. Even a little protection between two people is better than nothing.

Q: Why test DIY materials?

During the COVID-19 crisis, there has been much speculation on what materials work best for homemade face coverings, with many simply stating that even a bandana is “good enough” for healthcare workers, and others publishing filter data based on unapproved testing procedures. It is unacceptable and irresponsible to speculate and to be so cavalier when the health of so many are at risk and when we have the capability to test materials using state of the art equipment. The NIOSH N95 test standard, performed using the TSI 8130a test machine, is the gold standard for testing mask materials for filtration and breathability.

Q: What is an N95 respirator?

An N95 respirator is a high performance tight fitting “mask” that filters 95% of small aerosol particles according to the CDC NIOSH standard. It is used primarily by front line workers who are at greatest risk of exposure and when a high level of filter protection is needed along with a strong seal. Most N95 respirators use a special electrostatic media to achieve a high filtration percentage. N95 masks should not be confused with loose fitting surgical masks which only reduce transmission of fluids and larger respiratory droplets.

Q: What is the best filter material?

Based on these test results, it appears that Filti brand nanofiber is the best performing homemade alternative to N95 electrostatic media. Two layers of blue shop towels is perhaps the most economical/disposable option. Regular 100% cotton fabric ranks near the bottom in terms of filter performance.

Q: Why is mask/face covering breathability important?

A material that is not breathable exerts a back pressure when breathing, which can cause air to leak around the edges of the mask, defeating the purpose of the mask in the first place. Additionally, a mask that is not breathable is uncomfortable and may cause respiratory distress for those that may have an underlying condition. To put it in perspective, a plastic sheet may filter 100% of particles, but would be suffocating and useless as a mask material.

Q: Why is fit so important?

As you breathe, the pressure inside the mask changes, sometimes causing air to leak through the sides of the mask. For the best protection, you want airflow to actually filter through the mask material, not escape through the sides of the mask. A good, tight fitting mask reduces the amount of leakage between the edges of the mask and the mask wearer’s face. Recent studies show that even adding a nylon pantyhose layer to a mask can dramatically improve mask performance. Or a mask brace like www.FIXTHEMASK.com. Anyone can make their our elastomeric sealing mask with a strong nose clamp and Fold Over elastic.

Q: Why is proper handling and hygiene so important?

As you can imagine, a mask is designed to trap dangerous pathogens! Always assume the outside of your mask is dirty. You should wash your hands before putting on your respirator/mask/face covering and wash your hands after taking out off. Avoid touching or fiddling with your face covering while you are wearing it. You can store a reusable mask in a brown paper bag with your name on it before laundering or decontaminating. The CDC has documentation around proper mask handling and donning/doffing procedure to prevent contamination of PPE.

Q: Why do other studies report different results for material efficiency?

In short, because they are not using standardized N95 test procedures. The TSI 8130a test machine is the gold standard for rating filtration efficiency and breathability, and the data shown on this website are based on the results from a TSI 8130a. You can learn more about how N95 masks are made and tested here.

Q: What should I do if I can’t get access to Filti Face Mask Material?

Due to a high demand for Filti masks, we have chosen to sell some masks in our Shop. Additionally, you can aim to make a DIY face mask with the materials that you CAN locate. Refer to the chart in our Test Results page for more information about the effectiveness of various materials.