How to clean a respirator face mask

Proper care for a respirator face mask, like an N95 or FFP3, can help extend its usability and keep it effective. Due to high demand, many people are reusing these masks, but knowing how to clean and care for them correctly is essential to ensure they stay safe and effective.

Key Takeaways

Safe Cleaning Methods for Reuse

Respirator masks like N95s or FFP3s can be reused with careful cleaning. Safe home methods include heating to 70°C for 30 minutes or using UV-C light (but never washing in water or disinfectants, as these damage the filter).

Rotation and Storage

If you have multiple masks, rotating them and letting each sit for a few days allows any viruses to naturally deactivate. Store each mask in a clean space away from other items to keep it uncontaminated.

Check Mask Integrity

Before each use, check that the mask isn’t damaged or visibly dirty. Wash hands before putting it on and avoid touching the mask while wearing it. Following these tips helps maintain the mask’s safety and effectiveness.

How to Clean a Respirator Mask

When reusing a respirator mask, it’s important to choose a cleaning method that kills germs without damaging the mask’s filtration layers. Here are some methods that show promise, but it’s essential to note that not all of these can be safely done at home.

1. Hydrogen Peroxide Vapour

In medical facilities with specialist equipment, vaporised hydrogen peroxide can be used to kill viruses on respirator masks without damaging the material. This method isn’t suitable for home use, as it requires advanced machinery, but it’s an effective option used in some hospitals.

2. Heat and Moisture

If you’re looking for a home solution, heat and humidity have shown promise in deactivating viruses on masks:

• A study suggests that heating an N95 mask to 70°C for 30 minutes may help kill viruses.

• Avoid heating methods that are too hot, as they can damage the mask.

3. UV Light

UV-C light has been used in hospitals to sanitise equipment, including masks. UV light sanitiser machines are available for home use and can clean items like masks, keys, and phones. Be cautious to avoid direct exposure to UV-C light, as it can be harmful to your skin and eyes.

4. Time

For those who have multiple masks, letting them sit unused for a few days may also be an option. Viruses like COVID-19 gradually become inactive without a host, so rotating between masks and allowing time between uses can be effective. Though the exact lifespan of the virus on a mask is uncertain, experts believe it may last from a few hours up to several days.

Can You Wash a Respirator Mask?

Most respirator masks, including FFP2 and FFP3 types, are not designed to be washed with water, alcohol, or disinfectants. Washing can damage the filter layers and reduce the mask’s effectiveness. For masks that don’t contain paper layers, boiling may be possible, but it’s best to check the manufacturer’s guidance.

How Many Times Can You Reuse a Mask?

There’s no strict rule on how many times a respirator mask can be reused, as they are generally designed for single use. Instead, focus on the integrity of the mask:

• Check that it isn’t damaged or soiled, especially if it looks worn or has visible dirt.

• Follow guidance from organisations like OSHA, which states that a respirator can be reused as long as it "maintains its structural and functional integrity."

Tips for Safe Use and Storage

Proper handling and storage are key to maintaining your mask’s effectiveness:

1. Clean hands: Always wash your hands before putting on the mask and after taking it off.

2. Avoid touching: Once the mask is on, avoid touching it or adjusting it too often.

3. Store carefully: Keep your mask in a clean, separate space away from other items to prevent cross-contamination.

By following these tips and cleaning methods, you can keep your respirator face mask safe and effective, extending its lifespan when reusing it is necessary.