Let’s face it, we can’t face it without a good mask.
In the early days of the Coronavirus pandemic, the World Health Organization made it clear that masks are necessary only for those who are infected and those who are taking care of them. Not the general public. But, soon enough, masks were out of stock everywhere.
Now, in the midst of a pandemic, as discussion on vaccines rage on, it has become imperative to own a set of masks for our safety. But with lavish options available online, how do you decide on a mask? When it concerns your health, there’s no compromise.
Picture credit: The Local
When you decide on a mask, experts have suggested keeping three things in mind. First of all, the fabric of the mask so that it can filter the air and block the virus out. According to The New York Times, scientists are experimenting with fabrics including that of vacuum cleaner bags and flannel pajamas. But the conclusion of a good mask is that of opacity. Dr. Scott Segal, who is quoted in the story says; “Hold it up to bright light. If light passes really easily through the fibers and you can almost see the fibers, it’s not a good fabric. If it’s a denser weave of thicker material and light doesn’t pass through it as much, that’s the material you want to use.
Secondly, you have to purchase a mask that is certified by a government agency to assure you of the quality maintained. In the U.S N95 and N99 are the two prescribed quality of masks.
Finally, your mask should fit like a glove, which means it should sit perfectly on the nasal bridge and cover your entire nose and mouth, else, it defeats the purpose.
Keeping these things in mind, here are some sets of masks available on amazon and other sites.
Where to buy face masks?
Fine Guard N95 Adult Face Mask With Livinguard Technology
Buy Fine Guard N95 mask on Amazon.
AED: 99.99
For offers, deals and codes in UAE click here.
This N95 adult face mask is best to use at this time. The livinguard technology in this mask is said to kill viruses and germs when in contact. It can be used for over a year, and the soft fabric helps in prolonged usage. Currently, it is featured on Amazon’s Choice.
Disposable Three-Layer Surgical Mask
AED: 80
Available in sets of 20, 50 and 100, these disposable masks are one of the best sellers, mostly for hygiene reasons. Made out of non-woven fabric, the mask boasts three layers to keep the germs out. It features a plastic nose clip, mask belt, and comfortable ear hook. It is to be disposed off after one use.
Respirator Safety Face Mask
Buy a respirator safety face mask here.
AED: 16.85 to 89.85
For Carrefour coupon codes click here.
You can bet that these ones from Carrefour add a bit of color to face masks. SAPU’s respirators are made of breathable cotton and come in pieces of 5 to 10. From black and white to white and pink, these masks can be used for children as well.
Disposable ear-loop masks
AED: 153
For Desertcart coupons click here.
Featuring right under “coronavirus essential” in Desertcart, this disposable ear-loop face mask is imported from the U.S. Made of three layers, the dimension easily covers the nose, mouth and chin. The order comes in 50 pieces per pack.
50 Anti-Virus Disposable Face Surgical Mask
Buy Anti-Virus Disposable Face Surgical Mask here.
AED: 101
For UBUY coupon codes visit here.
Made of 3-PLY non-woven fabric, this mask is recommended for its high-density filtration system. The inner layer is that of non-woven cotton that absorbs the hot oil that you exhale, making you breathe as comfortably as possible. One quantity equals to 20 pieces.
While these face masks are available online, it is wise to make your own at home, so that people who really need it, get access to these professional ones.
If you are quarantined at home and your job does not require you to be in the frontline then here’s how you can make your own surgical mask.
How to make safety face masks at home?
Picture credit: USA Today
Choose a fabric:
A study of homemade masks by SmartAirFilters.com found that cotton T-shirts and cotton pillowcases are the best materials to use. And, according to The New York Times, the best-performing designs were constructed of two layers of high-quality “quilter’s cotton.” The double-layer mask with an inner layer of flannel and outer layer of cotton is hailed for its ability to capture particles and yet remain breathable. So get three layers for an ultra-safe. Two layers of cotton and one layer of lining fabric.
Cut the cloth:
Neatly cut all three fabrics into a rectangle. The ideal length is 9-inch and breadth is 6-inch. Place two cotton cloths one on top of the other.
Stitch elastic bands:
Take two elastic bands measuring 7-inch. From the corner ends of the cotton cloths, stitch the ends of the elastic. Ensure the loop isn’t twisted.
Stitch the lining:
Take the lining cloth and stitch it all around except for one single slot on your right. Give a small hole point (to make the mask inside out).
Cut the corners:
Cut the corners of the mask to give it a good shape.
Your mask is ready:
From the unstitched part of the mask, pull your elastic bands and turn the mask inside out. Your mask is ready!
So here’s a rounder of where to buy your face mask and what to do if you don’t find it online. Stay safe and stay home!
FAQs on face masks in the UAE
1. Where can I buy face masks online?
You can buy face masks available on all the top online sites such as Amazon, Carrefour, Desertcart amongst others.
2. What materials can I use for making masks at home?
Fabric masks should be made of three layers of fabric:
- Inner layer of absorbent material, like cotton.
- Middle layer of non-woven non-absorbent material, like polypropylene.
- Outer layer of non-absorbent material, like polyester or polyester blend.
3. What is the proper way to wear a face mask?
According to the WHO, here are the basics of how to wear a mask:
- Clean your hands before you put your mask on, as well as before and after you take it off, and after you touch it at any time.
- Make sure it covers your nose, mouth and chin.
- When you take off a mask, store it in a clean plastic bag, and every day either wash it if it’s a fabric mask or dispose of a medical mask in a trash bin.
- Don’t use masks with valves.
