Mistakes We Make While Wearing Face Masks

Quilted Mask made by KellyJo Designs

I don't know about you, but when I'm out an about where there are people close, I wear a mask. I believe this is going to be the way of life for some time to come. I also believe that staying healthy is a priority in my life and I would want to know how to handle wearing a mask the proper way when out in public.

Here are a few mistakes made while wearing a mask and how to prevent them:

1. Putting it on and taking it off incorrectly is a biggie. Remember to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before handling your mask after being in a public place. It's all about hygiene folks. Better safe than sorry. When taking your mask off, make sure you handle the mask by the ear loops or ties.
2. Wearing it the wrong way. If your mask has pleats, they go on the outside, and the folded edge should be on the bottom. The mask should fit snugly, covering your nose and mouth completely without gaps but still allowing you to breathe naturally, according to the CDC. The sides of the mask should extend at least an inch past each corner of your mouth, and the bottom should wrap under your chin, which serves as an anchor.
3. Putting it on too late. Many people put on their masks as they enter a grocery store or other essential business, but that may be too late because unforeseen interactions can occur earlier. Ideally, you should put on your mask before you step out of your front door. If you live in an apartment, that’s especially important, noting that elevators and stairwells can be especially germy. I live in a house where neighbors aren't so close, so typically I don't put it on until right before getting out my car.  
4. Contaminating It. Stop touching your face. Really. I must admit I fiddle with my mask while wearing it and I shouldn't be doing that because I'm contaminating the mask with my hands. The nose, mouth and eyes are the main way we get the virus. I need to be more aware and have a bottle a hand sanitizer on me all the time so if I have to touch my mask, I'll be prepared. 
5. Not Washing Your Mask. If you wear a cloth mask frequently, it’s best to wash it every time you wear it. Use detergent in the hottest water the fabric can withstand. This is not the time to think about brightening the colors. Heat definitely kill s germs. One way we've been sterilizing our masks is by hanging them over the rearview mirror. It's been hot lately and the sun definitely cooks things. Not sure it's the best way but God gave us the sun and I'm gonna use it :) 
6. Wearing it for the Wrong Reason. Wearing a mask in public is not so much protecting you as it’s protecting others around you in that six feet of space. A growing body of research suggests the novel coronavirus is likely spread by people who don’t show symptoms. That could even be you. And that’s the most important reason to wear a mask.

I hope this helps in your journey to staying healthy during the coronavirus pandemic and praying that you stay safe and healthy always!!

Love and best wishes,

Kelly

The Sassy Silver Sisters

Cathy, Rhonda & Kelly

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FTC DISCLAIMER: This blog post is NOT SPONSORED. All opinions are our own, honest opinions. The above information originally published on Reader's Digest