Face Masks for the Corona Virus

Types of Face Masks for Corona Virus

The CDC recommends that everyone wears a cloth face mask in places where it can be difficult to stay 6 feet from other people. It's been well documented that people can still spread the virus even if they don't have symptoms.

A face mask covers your mouth and nose. It can block the release of virus-filled droplets into the air when you cough, sneeze or even talk. This helps slow the spread of Corona Virus.

Masks for Health Care Workers

N95 respirators and surgical masks should be reserved for healthcare workers. Because there aren't enough of these masks for everyone, it's important that they go to the doctors, nurses, and other medical staff who are on the front lines.

N95 respirator masks 

These fit tightly around your face and filter out at least 95% of smallest particles in the air. 

Surgical masks 

These are often blue with white borders. They fit loosely across your nose and mouth. These masks shield against the large droplets that come from a sick person's cough or sneeze, but they're too loose to protect against all germs. 

Masks for Non-Health Care Workers

Cloth masks are best for people who don't work in health care. Here are some tips to keep in mind when making your own or looking for handmade masks:

Homemade DIY Masks

You can sew the fabric, tie it around your face, or fold it around elastic tie loops to fit around the ear. Here is a tutorial making a simple mask at home.

Cloth Masks

If you decide to buy a mask, please ensure that it has at least at least two layers of fabric. It should also have a moldable portion around the nose to help it fit your face better. Tomato Superstar has some really great masks here.

Dust Masks

These types of masks can be found at hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowes. These are a good option but don't filter out as many particles as the N95 respirators do.

Neck Gaiter

This is a short tube of fabric that you pull over your head and position it around your neck. You can fold it into multiple layers if the material is thin and this can give you a level of protection. Dick's Sporting Goods sell these.

We hope you liked our ideas! Please let us know which masks you've been using! Tomato Superstar is an online boho-inspired clothing boutique that gives back to non-profits combating human trafficking. If you'd like to learn more about our philanthropic efforts or buy a face mask, please click here.