Different types of mask fabric

When considering the “finest” product mask, it’s important to align the choice with the specific needs and environments in which the mask will be used.

Each type of mask mentioned by Textile Hall No. 3 serves different purposes and comes with its own set of perks and pitfalls.

Below is a breakdown of the effectiveness and best use cases for each mask type:

Cotton Mask

Best for: Daily use in non-medical settings with low dust level concern.

Cloth masks have become common among everyday citizens because they are reusable and offer eco-conscious options.

Pros: Because the masks are reusable, they are comfortable, and work for people who may be allergic to other materials.

Cons: Provides no meaningful protection against viruses and smaller particulate matter.

Medical Surgical Mask

Best for: One-time use in crowded places or for individuals who may be at a higher risk of virus exposure.

Masks face have become an integral part of everyday attire as air-borne illnesses continue to be a concern for societies around the globe.

Pros: Provides a reasonable blocking rate of over 75% for droplets that may contain a virus or bacteria.

Cons: They are disposable, so that may raise the overall costs and waste.

Regular Gauze Mask

Best for: Basic protection from dust in a workshop setting.

Old t-shirt cloth is favored to make homemade masks because it is soft and stretchy.

Pros: Some reuse-ability is possible and they may be more comfortable.

Cons: Provides limited effectiveness against a virus or bacteria.

N95 and KN95 Masks

Best for: High protection from airborne particles such as those found in a medical facility or from people who are sick.

In cases where there is likely to be high exposure to air-borne particles, a mask of this type would be appropriate.

Pros: Their efficiency is higher; so they do a better job in filtering out particles including viruses.

Use of N95 or KN95 masks can significantly reduce inhalation exposure to the virus in high-virus risk environments.

Cons: They may become uncomfortable after a period of time and are often more expensive.

They may not be always as readily available for the general public, especially in conditions where health crises are unfolding.

In summation, the “finest” mask will depend on the individual’s specific needs:

For everyday dust protection and in limited risk environments: A cotton mask may do.

For higher risk environments with a potential for encountering a virus: Medical surgical, N95, or KN95 masks are far better choices; N95 or KN95 offers the highest level of protection.

It’s important to remember to practice other protective measures in tandem with the use of masks, like your hands, as they say!

Frequent hand washing, use of hand sanitizer, and maintaining a distance from others will help with your overall protection from air-borne particles and viruses.

Good ear loops are key in getting the mask to fit tightly on your face.

A mask that has a flexible nose piece will allow you to adjust it to fit tighter to the nose, helping to prevent air leaks to breathe in viral particles.

For those in a medical situation or in touch with an infected person, N95 or KN95 masks offer the best security available, assuming their use doesn’t help contribute to a shortage for health-care workers who need them the most.