Singaporeans began collecting two reusable masks each on Monday, September 21, as a component of the fourth national reusable mask distribution training to help in opposition to the Covid-19.
An initiative of the Temasek Foundation, the mask can be collected from StayMasked ATMs in approximately 800 locations by scanning the barcodes of an NRIC, a school card, a birth certificate, a FIN or any government-issued identity with a barcode.
People can get information about the vending machines closest to them on this website.
The two-week collection will last until October 4. Although it is a useful and durable option for single-use disposable mask, the reusable mask deserves to be washed and replaced after an era of time advised.
Here are some to keep in mind about reusable masks.
Newer masks are for everyday use. Each mask can be washed up to 30 times. Infectious disease expert Leong Hoe Nam advises users to check that the mask fits their face and cheeks, as unfiltered air can enter through the appearance of a loose mask. one, wash one” a day, each mask kit with a pair lasts two months. After that, the mask remains usable, but its antimicrobial effectiveness and filtration are less effective.
Washing and drying are undeniable, but it will need to be done well for the mask to remain effective for longer. Use mild soap and a solution of warm water. Do not use antiseptic detergent or bleach. The mask manufacturer says the mask can be soaked in water for a longer period of time to remove stains from cosmetics. It is not advised to use a make-up remover as it can the protective qualities of the mask.
The mask should be washed every day of use, according to the commands given in the mask kit. Leong advises users to be careful when washing the mask, as competitive washing or using a washing board to clean the fabric can cause immediate damage.
The mask should be discarded as you would with a surgical mask: in a garbage bag with other waste or in a trash can. Alternatively, the clean mask can be recycled in other ways.
For example, they can be reused as a cleaning cloth, bag for your glasses or keys, as they are made of cotton.
Beyond 30 washes, antimicrobial and filter mask homes are less effective. Leong indicated that the effectiveness of the mask can fall between 10 and 15 percent.
For the latest updates on coronavirus, here.
This article was first published in The Straits Times.