could use disposable, medical -grade ….

could use disposable, medical -grade masks. A cotton mask can be reused over and over as long as it is washed at the end of the day. Simply hand wash your mask in the sink or toss it in the laundry with your clothes and hang to dry. Disposable masks must not be worn multiple times as they lose effectiveness over time. Now that it is easier to buy disposable masks, it is important to make sure that you are disposing of them correctly.

A recent July Guardian article stated that disposable masks and gloves are piling up in the ocean and threatening marine life. If you are using disposable masks or gloves, make sure that you toss them in the trash to protect wildlife. Before you throw it away, snip the ear loops and cut the mask in half so wildlife or marine life won’t get caught in it.

Face Shields: Face Shields are a great way to add additional protection, especially when traveling, but should not be worn without a mask.

This is one of a two-part series. Tips on how to wear your mask comfortably will be in the Oct. 15 issue.