How to Test Your Face Mask to Make Sure It Actually Works

So what can you look out for when buying a mask to make sure it does what it's supposed to do?

And how can you test one you've bought or made?

What do I look for in a surgical mask?

Surgical masks (also known as medical masks) are usually made of three or four layers, most commonly polypropylene.

Ideally, they should meet Australian standards for how well they filter and how resistant they are to water.

Only masks the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approves as medical products (officially known as medical devices) can be used in hospitals.

If you're buying one online or making one yourself, check how many layers it has. A single-layered mask is better than no covering, but two layers are better than one, and three layers are better than two. More than three layers are better still.

Look for a fine weave, high thread count and dense material. Flimsy or see-through material, or material with large gaps, is not adequate because droplets and aerosols can pass through the gaps.

For a cloth mask, pure cotton is not a good choice for the outer layer, as it is absorbent. If someone else is coughing and sneezing near you, you want your mask to block those droplets rather than enable them to pass through the mask and infect you. A polyester or cotton-polyester blend is a better choice for this outer layer.

So for cloth masks, aim for at least three layers, including a water-resistant outer layer. The inner layer can be cotton, as that makes it more comfortable to wear, because it will absorb moisture from your breathing.

Check also that your mask fits well around your face. If you have gaps around the edges of your mask, you can breathe in unfiltered, contaminated air.

Look to see if there's a nose bridge piece or other adjustable edge to help mould the mask around your nose and the top of your cheeks. If your mask is loose-fitting, a nylon stocking over the top can improve the fit and seal.

Related Products

Disposable Medical Face Mask

Disposable Medical Mask Material: NonWoven Fabric+Meltblown N

Disposable KN95 Face Mask

Disposable N95 Mask Material: 5 ply Non-woven fabric Color: w

Disposable N95 Face Mask

Disposable KN95 Face Mask Material: Needle punched cotton+Mel