Coronavirus update: You gotta wear a mask anytime you’re out. As of 15 April 2020, those caught without a mask outside will face a fine of $300 for the first offence, and $1000, for the second time. Why the sudden mask-wearing requirement? There’s been evidence that infected people are showing no symptoms of the virus and may spread it to others, without their knowledge. There’s also a possibility of undetected cases in the community so it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Unless you’re ill, you’d want to save the surgical masks and N95 respirators for frontline staff and healthcare workers. The government has already issued reusable masks for everyone but if you need more, these local labels are churning out reusable masks in different sizes and with pockets to slot in filter inserts. Alternatively, you can DIY your own mask if you’re bored at home. Mask up, people!
The right way to wear a mask
Before wearing your mask, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Make sure the mask covers your mouth and nose, and there are no gaps between your face and the mask.
For surgical masks, ensure the coloured side is faced outwards and press the metal wire over your nose to keep the mask in place.
Avoid touching the mask and remove the mask from behind your ears or head.
Dispose the mask immediately after use into a closed bin and wash your hands after.
For reusable cloth masks, wash them after every use with clean warm water and soap, or pop them into the washing machine. Use the hottest setting in the machine or dry it in the sun.
Where else to purchase reusable masks
Olive Ankara
Olive Ankara’s putting their amazing cut off fabrics into great use by creating face masks that are reusable, washable and reversible with elastic bands. These fashionable pieces can be worn alone or with a surgical mask (slide it into the mask pocket!) for higher protection. What’s more, 10% of its revenue will be donated to local charities helping migrant workers and people in need in these dire times. Don’t fret if the masks are sold out as they are regularly stocked with new batches.
Olive Ankara’s face masks, $19 each, purchase online
Ans Ein
Be a part of Ans.Ein’s amazing project to distribute 1000 reusable masks to our everyday heroes in Singapore. The masks come in various colours and sizes for adults and kids. Also, all proceeds from the sale of masks will go to those who work in essential services. The super handy masks come in three ply – breathable cotton twill that absorbs moisture, a waterproof fabric that’s used for medical protective gears and blocks out water droplets, and a durable cotton drill that blocks small particles from outside.
Ans Ein’s reusable masks, $7 for adults; $5 for kids, purchase online
Independent Market
These 100% cotton fabric masks are totally breathable and hypoallergenic – great for those with sensitive skin. They’re lined with an inner gauze layer for comfort, a pocket for inserting a filter and have elastic ear binds for the ultimate comfort. Plus, they’re sold in packs of four for kids, adults or a mix, so you don’t have to double up in masks.
Independent Market, fabric face masks set, $32 for set of four, purchase online
Marvelous Works
Marvelous Work’s fabric masks come in various prints and patterns made from 100% cotton. There are up to four sizes for you to choose from so no one at home will be left out. The mask sleeves also come with a slit for you to insert the right filter for more protection.
Marvelous Works reusable cotton fabric face mask sleeve insert, from $10, purchase online
The Cotton Shoppe
The Cotton Shoppe has a variety of masks for you to pick from. Think Japanese double gauze, tana lawn and cotton fabrics in kids and adult sizes. You can also select from 3D or pleated masks (they all come with slots to insert filters).
The Cotton Shoppe fabric masks, from $12, purchase online
CYC Made to Measure
Made with Egyptian cotton fabric, these ultra-comfy masks come in all sizes, with a washable and removable air filter for the ultimate protection. It also has a smart ‘V-fit’ so your mask falls into place nicely. Masks filter inserts are also sold separately.
CYC Made to Measure reusable face mask with filter insert, from $20, available online
DIY tutorials for crafty peeps
Did you know you could create a face mask at home with a bandana or handkerchief and a couple of scrunchies? The government has also shared a cool DIY method using reusable shopping bags. If you’ve got a sewing machine at home, get to work with these easy steps from Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
Want the scoop on all things quarantine and chill? Check out our Stay In column for more!
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