Household Materials for Homemade Masks: How Effective Are They?

ABSTRACT

Introduction: With the fear of uncertain behaviours and mechanisms of the coronavirus in the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic, people are required to cover their mouth and nose to prevent the spread of the virus. This has become a challenge as most countries struggle with the dwindling stocks of face masks. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggested the use of cloth masks as a substitute. In an effort to find suitable materials that serve this purpose and ensure sufficient protection afforded, the masks need to be tested. Methods: In this study, the penetration and breathing resistance of 13 easily obtained household materials potentially used by the public as face masks, were randomly selected and tested by using TSI Model 8130 Automated Filter Tester, while the thickness was measured by S-Cal EVO Proximity caliper. Results: The level of thickness ranged between 0.25 mm (satin) and 4.83 mm (diaper). Double-layer denim material showed the lowest percentage of penetration (Median, IQR 27.50%, 27.05-28.80) while the greatest was single-layer lycra (Median, IQR 90.60%, 80.80-92.10). Single-layer chiffon fabric showed the best breathing resistance (Median, IQR in mmH2O 1.30, 0.90, 1.45) while the worst was diaper (Median, IQR in mmH2O 87.20, 86.95, 87.25). Conclusion: Double-layer dried wet tissue, single-layer tissue paper and double-layer non-woven fabric can be considered to be used as face masks due to their efficiency based on penetration and breathing resistance factors. © 2021 UPM Press. All rights reserved.