With the introduction of face masks into daily life, comes a series of questions for consumers; When am I required to wear a facemask? How does it stop the spread of Covid-19? What type of fabric is most effective against germs? How should it fit? How should I wash my mask? These are all important to consider when purchasing a face mask and wearing it. Today I will do my best to answer some of the questions listed above and try and discern what face masks are the best.

Why Wear a Face Mask?

Covid-19 spreads from person to person through droplets from the respiratory system. It’s important to keep in mind that a face mask may not protect the wearer, but it may keep the wearer from spreading the virus to others. Many cities across the U.S still have order in place keeping people quarantined at home. Others have opened up greeting the need for masks to be worn. Check out the ordinances from your local government about specific face mask requirements in public. 

Wear and Tear

Everyone needs instructions sometimes. Wearing a face mask isn’t rocket science, but it is just as important. Always wash your hands before putting on your face covering. Fit the mask snugly around your nose and mouth to avoid germs spreading. Not just you mouth people, this is a big one. Germs can spread from your nose too! Never ever touch your mask in public, there’s no telling what could be on your hands. Most importantly don’t forget to stay six feet away from others. 

Good, Better, Best 

After the first wave of Coronavirus in the U.S, hospitals across the nation faced a serious lack of N95 respirators and other medical grade face masks.This problem created a new market that has swept across the country. Face masks are everywhere. From surgical grade masks, cloth covers, bandanas and more, the American economy has jumped on the opportunity to sell to its citizens. With hospitals claiming the higher grade masks for medical work, people began to get crafty. Creating all types of coverings using different fabrics. Some worked good, others better, but only one could be the best. Let’s break down the results. 

Let’s start with the basics. Everyone has seen those single use, standard PPE surgical masks. Originally invented to be used by healthcare professionals, these masks are effective in reducing the risk of infection. Surgical masks are made of non-woven materials of different thicknesses and with the bility to protect you from contact with liquids. While a surgical mask may be effective in blocking splashes and large-particle droplets, by design, it does not filter or block very small particles in the air that may be transmitted by coughs or sneezes. These masks are single use and are effective for a limited time before they become too contaminated. 

N95 Respirator ‘s are made for healthcare workers and only healthcare workers.The mask is a tight fitting face covering that protects from the smallest of particles. These masks are the best of the best. Protecting the wearing from 95% of particles in the air, these masks are reserved from primary health care workers who are directly fighting the covid-19 pandemics. However, there are still really good masks out there. 

Bandanas are not one of them. Gaiters and Bandanas are the least effective form of face covering on the market. Loosely covering and bandana style face masks are the least effective at protecting yourself and others. Avoid these if you can. 

100% cotton masks give you the best of both worlds. They are reusable which is more eco-friendly than the alternative single use option. Cotton masks are also breathable but do tend to trap sweat and moisture. Cotton is also blended with an assortment of other materials to make it incredibly effective against the spread of partilces to and fro. 

Polyester masks are great, they stretch, molding to your face. They can also be customized to add personality, but are not always easy to breathe in. 

Modal masks are the most breathable and reduce sweat but get dirty easy and can occasionally rip. 

Whatever mask you may choose, remember, you are not only protecting yourself but those around you. 

Keeping your home clean and organized is no simple task. However, there are plenty of amazing tips, tricks, and hacks that can help you keep your house clean and tidy. With all these tips available, we’re going to take a closer look at the problem areas within the house. These places get extra dirty and stay that way without your intervention, but we’re here to share with you some practical cleaning tips to destroy germs and keep your home tidy. 

There are likely times when cleaning is just overwhelming. It is beneficial to break your tasks up into smaller chores so that they seem more manageable. Take into account the space you will be cleaning. Start with one room at a time to separate tasks and make your chores more manageable. If this isn’t your thing then break it down more by focusing on specific tasks. Sweeping floors, dusting shelves, wiping down counters, or removing grime from bathroom surfaces are ways to separate your cleaning routine. 

Capturing Dust 

This is easier said than done. Feather dusters and rags pick up some of the dust, but most of it just settles elsewhere. Using products that attract and hold onto dust like Swiffer actually works. The same goes for cloth products that use waxes or oils to trap dust. Microfiber rags are great, they work well and can be reused over and over again. 

Polishing Surfaces 

Microfiber cloths also excel at putting the finishing touches on countertops, mirrors, and even tile and fixtures. For shining, spotless results consider the type of surface when choosing a furniture polish for the cleaning task at hand. Not all cleaners are universal. One might work great for marble counters but be terrible for wooden tables. Make sure to do your research on the type of finishes that are on your household items. This will dictate the type of cleaner you should use. 

Mopping Floors

Similar to the previous section, you can’t just mop every type of floor in your home and expect the same results. Mopping floors can prevent a buildup of grime. The art of mopping a floor is a simple process, but you can always get the job done faster. Always sweep the floors prior to mopping. This may seem redundant but is crucial to the process. Once you are prepared to mop the floors, use warm, soapy water and mop in sections. Remember to wring out the mop, this gets rid of the gross stuff. Let the floor air dry, there’s no need to wipe it down yourself. Remember to always dump your dirty water into the toilet and not the kitchen sink. 

The Bathroom

Possibly one of the germiest rooms in your home, it’s incredibly important to keep this area clean. When the time comes that you need to give your entire bathroom a makeover, we’re here to help. When cleaning your toilet bowl generously apply a toilet bowl cleaner.  Wipe down the toilet seat and handle with disinfectant wipes. Remember that toilet brushes need cleaning, too. When it comes to the tub, there's no room for mildew and mold in the place you rely on for clean hygiene. Get ahead of the grime by cleaning your tub on a regular basis

Hopefully, this tidbit of information helps you with your cleaning process. Check back here for the second part of our housekeeping series.