3 Typical Types of Masks
To begin, I must properly explain the different types of masks and their filtration efficiencies. My husband did a fabulous job researching and making our homemade masks and made a very efficient mask for our doctor visits.
My research originated from a Cambridge University study titled, “Testing the Efficacy of Homemade Masks: Would They Protect in an Influenza Pandemic?” Though this test primarily focused on the flu, table 1 provided statistical evidence concerning filtration efficiency against bacteriophage MS2. It is believed this is a comparable size of the coronavirus molecules.
Surgical Masks
To begin with, there is a surgical mask. This mask is more loose-fitting, disposable, and covers the nose and mouth. Many doctors wear this mask in noncritical situations.
Though there is no perfect mask, its filtration efficiency is about 96% which is pretty great!
Cloth Masks
These masks are not perfect, but these homemade masks are good alternatives if needed.
According to research, cloth vastly ranges in filtration efficiency.
- Tea Towel Homemade Masks- 83% (The Best)
- Cotton T-Shirt Material (Bandanas) – 70%
- Pillow Case Mask – 61%
- Scarf – 60%
- Linen Mask – 60%
- Silk Mask – 58%
The Best: Vacuum Cleaner Bag Homemade Masks
Interestingly, this homemade mask provides a 94% filtration efficiency.
This option includes cutting a rectangular square from the vacuum cleaner bag and inserting it into a homemade mask. Similarly, the material of the vacuum cleaner bag can be directly fitted to the face. We, however, opted for the first option and inserted the vacuum bag material inside our cotton bandana homemade masks.
BUT in all seriousness, please do not put a vacuum cleaner bag over your head!!
Conclusion
In conclusion, if the public needs to use a mask, the most filtration efficient homemade masks include a vacuum cleaner bag filter. Furthermore, the study I based my research upon did not arise during or as a result of the current global pandemic. Any current research must be evaluated and tested to not have current political motivations. Personally, I find research conducted on certain topics prior to the COVID-19 pandemic more enlightening.
Again, though vacuum cleaner bag masks are not perfect, neither is a surgical mask. During this global pandemic, many are finding it difficult to find surgical masks.
[…] My husband has also been making 94% filtration efficient home-made-masks! Not perfect but significantly better than knitted, crocheted, and beaded masks! (Check out my article: “The Best Homemade Mask“). […]