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ANNA DE SOUZA: Masks are going to be part
of our new normal for a while.
But is the one you have now the best possible fit for you?
Check out our comprehensive guide
to all the most popular styles of masks on the market now.
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We'll only touch briefly on N95 masks, because, as you know,
they continue to be reserved for first responders,
according to the CDC.
These masks are designed to offer a tight seal
around the nose and the mouth.
And it offers 95% protection from the particles in the air.
If you've visited a doctor's office,
you've seen a surgical mask.
This type of mask fits loosely over the nose and the mouth.
And while it can protect you from larger droplets
from coughing and sneezing, it's not flush to the face.
So it might not protect you from all airborne particles.
Wetness from your exhalation renders
it disposable after about eight hours.
While these masks do feel and look paper thin, some of them
do have an electrostatic charge that helps to trap particles
in.
Dentists and contractors commonly use molded masks.
They're fluid-resistant and cup over the nose and the mouth.
And there's a metal band here that will help secure
it to the bridge of the nose.
Molded masks are a little bit easier to breathe
with, because it's 3D.
So the fabric is not folding in and out of itself
with every one of your breaths.
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The CDC recommends cloth masks for everyone
over the age of two.
So how do you know which one is best
and for what type of activity?
Let's go through your options.
While too many layers may make it hard to breathe,
medical professionals do recommend a cloth
mask with at least three layers for the best
possible protection.
One style that's readily available on the market
is a mask with an outside layer, then a pocket layer where you
fit in a filter, in which case you can turn
to coffee filters or even paper towels
as a safe at-home alternative.
The combination of two materials like a high-thread-count cotton
and a silken chiffon can filter out as many particles
as an N95 mask.
You've probably seen masks on the market with valves.
And while they may be more comfortable for the wearer,
because it pushes out any sort of humidity, in fact,
it also pushes out viruses back out into the air.
So unfortunately, these masks are not recommended by the CDC.
Bandanas and neck gaiters are typically made of polyester
or another synthetic material.
They're essentially a tube that you lift up
to cover your nose and mouth.
Since these fabrics are thin, experts
do recommend folding it into multiple layers
for some added protection.
3D cloth masks are typically designed with thicker fabrics
to help the mask keep its shape.
This origami-style mask may be a really great option
for those who feel claustrophobic
or asthmatics who may need more oxygen.
Experts and parents agree-- the general rule of thumb for kids
age 2 to 12 is to find patterns they love.
Look for masks with soft seems, so it won't
irritate your child's skin.
You also want to look for multiple layers
for the best possible protection while still being breathable.
Thanks so much for watching.
And we'll catch you in the next video.