Masks

Homemade masks do not replace N95 masks or surgical masks and are not ‘official’ PPE. They won’t offer the same level of protection as industrially made and regualator-approved masks.

Anyone using a mask should refer to current WHO advice and guidelines on how to safely use them.

Wear only dry masks. When masks get damp, they need to be laundered. Wash masks regularly with detergent in a hot washing machine cycle. Dry completely before use.

Patterns

A Stitch in Time homemade mask - download our instructions for a two-layer washable cotton mask, secured by four ties. This design follows the recommended approach whereby a mask should fit over the nose and under the chin and we had the input of a medic when developing the design.

Make Face Masks - a website featuring a free pattern and instructions based on a design by Dr Chen Xiaoting, a Taiwanese anaesthetist. This pattern and method have been approved by the Belgian Federal Public Service for Public Health. This pattern is for a two layer fabric mask with space for an insert. This has large, small and child sizes.

Sarah Maker - a free pattern and instructions for a mask with two layers of fabric with a pocket for additional optional disposable insert can be downloaded from Sarah Maker's website.

Based on recommendations we have received from a medic we would recommend you also consider the following points and modifications when selecting a pattern:

• Ties are more comfortable than elastic for long term wear
• Ensure that the inside and outside are made from clearly different fabrics
• Masks need to cover both nose and chin
• Some sort of flexible wire for over the nose is necessary (wire, pipe cleaner, file clips all can be used)
• Masks must come down properly under the chin and sit snugly