Coronavirus Pandemic

How should I clean and store my face mask?

Masks are designed to prevent the wearer from possibly spreading the virus to others or being exposed themselves. But how should they be washed and stored?

Associated Press

May 21, 2020

Maria Buono wore her homemade mask, per Gov. John Carney's order, while shopping for groceries in Pike Creek, Delaware. (Cris Barrish/WHYY)

How should I clean and store my face mask?

Cloth face masks worn during the coronavirus pandemic should be washed regularly, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Public health experts recommend wearing a mask made from cotton fabric, such as T-shirts, or scarves and bandannas, when you are outside and unable to maintain social distancing from others.

The covering should be washed daily after use, says Penni Watts, an assistant professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s School of Nursing.

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It is best to clean your mask in a washing machine or with soap and hot water. The mask should be dried completely. Dry it in a hot dryer, if possible.

Watts advises storing the clean, dry mask in a new paper bag to keep it safe from germs.

The CDC has urged people to use washable cloth coverings to ensure there are enough surgical and N95 masks for medical workers.

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