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How should I wear a mask? How often should I replace it?
2026-01-15
Masks can be categorized into three types: medical surgical masks (which block 70% of bacteria), N95 masks (which block 95% of bacteria), and ordinary cotton gauze masks (which block 36% of bacteria).
To prevent COVID-19, experts recommend that the public wear either medical surgical masks or N95 masks—cotton cloth masks are no longer recommended. Medical surgical masks are generally available at pharmacies, while N95 masks can currently be purchased only from select specialty drug stores or medical device companies. For ordinary citizens, if you're going to public places and won't come into contact with patients, wearing a medical surgical mask is sufficient; there's no need for excessive protection. However, if you'll be in close contact with patients, you should wear an N95 mask designed to protect against biological hazards.
The commonly used N95 masks actually come in two types: one is the biohazard-resistant mask (blue-green), model 1860 or 9132, and the other is the dust-resistant mask (white), model 8210. If you have a purchase need, you should choose the biohazard-resistant medical protective mask.
How often should a mask be replaced? Generally speaking, if the mask isn't visibly dirty or deformed, you don't need to replace it every four hours. If you need to reuse it, place it in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated environment to air-dry naturally, or store it in a clean, breathable paper bag.
Masks must be stored separately to prevent contact and cross-contamination. Disposable masks cannot be washed after use, but cotton-gauze masks can be washed and disinfected.
It is not recommended to disinfect masks by heating them in a microwave oven, electric oven, or steamer, as this can damage the internal structure of the mask to varying degrees.
Do not use ultraviolet light to disinfect masks, as the structure of the mask will be damaged after exposure to UV radiation.
It’s not advisable to disinfect masks with alcohol. This is because when alcohol is sprayed onto the mask’s surface and then evaporates, it carries away the moisture inside. When you reuse the mask afterward, the viruses that have been separated out could potentially be inhaled.
If your mask exhibits any of the following issues, it is recommended that you replace it immediately: 1. The nose clip on the mask is damaged; 2. The mask’s head straps have become loose; 3. The mask has become deformed; 4. The mask has developed an odor or appears dirty; 5. Breathing resistance has increased; 6. You’ve been in close contact with an infected person; 7. The mask has been contaminated (e.g., stained with blood or other substances).
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