By now you’ve probably amassed a handful of new face masks to deal with the COVID19 pandemic. But which of those makes is the best for the coronavirus? While the obvious winner would be a mask with a built in respirator, like an N95, most don’t have access to those types of masks which namely belong on the front lines with medicial professionals.
So what are you supposed to do in regards to buying or making a COVID mask? Which is the best coronavirus mask materials to keep you and your family safe?
Smart Air, a social enterprise and certified B-Corp that promotes cost-effective, data-backed air filters as a solution to indoor particulate air pollution, has released the results of their latest research on DIY face mask materials, in which they tested over 30 different materials ― including bra pads, coffee filters, pillow cases, electrostatic cloths, cotton T-shirts, wool, bed sheets, polyester, bandanas and more ― for their effectiveness in filtering coronavirus-sized microparticles, as well as their breathability.
After a rather lengthy and in-depth study, Smart Air says denim, bed sheets, paper towels, canvas and shop towels are the best filters for your do-it-yourself masks.
