Spray Alcohol On Face Masks: Safe Or Not?

Spraying alcohol on face masks is a common practice, especially with the recent pandemic, as people believe it disinfects them. However, this is not advisable as it dissolves the waterproof coating, rendering the masks ineffective. Masks with a waterproof coating are designed to block liquid droplets, and spraying them with alcohol will dissolve this layer, allowing water to pass through. While it is recommended to disinfect disposable masks, this should be done with 60% isopropyl alcohol spray, which is then left to dry on a windowsill.

Spraying alcohol on a face mask can dissolve its protective coating

While some sources recommend disinfecting face masks with alcohol, spraying alcohol on a face mask can dissolve its protective coating. Surgical masks have a layer of waterproof coating on the surface to block liquid droplets. Alcohol is both lipophilic (it combines with/dissolves in lipids or fats) and hydrophilic (attracted to water), so it will dissolve part of this coating. If the coating is dissolved, water will easily pass through it, rendering the mask ineffective.

A chemistry teacher at Taipei's Kainan Vocational High School explained that "because of the need to block liquid droplets, the masks have a layer of waterproof coating on the surface. After alcohol is added, [...] it will dissolve part of this coating. If this coating is dissolved, water will easily pass through it."

Richard Juan's viral video demonstrated why one should never spray alcohol on their face mask. He explained that a good-quality surgical mask has a white absorbent side, a middle layer, and an outer coloured layer that are water-repellent. The absorbent layer prevents bodily fluids from escaping the mask, while the water-repellent layers prevent water droplets and fluids from being absorbed into the mask from the outside. If you spray alcohol on a waterproof coating, it dissolves the barrier and lets water pass through.

However, some sources recommend using alcohol to disinfect face masks. Dr Sutton recommends putting 60% isopropyl alcohol in a spray bottle and misting the mask, then leaving it on a windowsill to dry. He states that "we know that alcohol and UV rays decrease viral particles." There are also commercial products available that use 70% isopropyl alcohol to deodorize and freshen cloth face masks.

Isopropyl alcohol can be used to freshen cloth face masks

Cloth face masks can start to smell a bit funky after a while, especially if they're being worn for long periods. This is a telltale sign that it's time to wash a reusable mask. However, if you're in a pinch and need to freshen up your mask, you can use isopropyl alcohol.

Isopropyl alcohol is a disinfectant, so it can be used to sanitise your cloth face mask. Dr. Sutton recommends using 60% isopropyl alcohol in a spray bottle to mist your mask, then leaving it on a windowsill to dry. The alcohol will help to decrease viral particles on your mask, and the UV rays from the sun will further this effect.

There are also commercially available mask freshening sprays that use isopropyl alcohol. These typically contain 70% isopropyl alcohol and are fragranced to leave your mask smelling fresh. To use these sprays, hold your mask by its string and spray both sides with one or two pumps of the product. Allow it to dry for about 20 seconds before wearing your mask again.

You can also make your own mask refresher spray using alcohol and essential oils. Add the ingredients to a small spray bottle, shake well, and apply several sprays to the outside of your cloth mask. Allow the alcohol to evaporate before wearing your mask again. Note that essential oils may stain very light fabric masks.

Disposable masks can be disinfected with 60% isopropyl alcohol

It is safe to reuse disposable masks, as long as you are careful not to contaminate yourself when removing and storing them. Dr. Sutton recommends hanging masks on a coat hanger between uses. To keep yourself safe, you can disinfect disposable masks between uses.

Dr. Sutton advises using a 60% isopropyl alcohol solution to disinfect disposable masks. Put the solution in a spray bottle and mist the mask, then leave it on a windowsill to dry. According to Dr. Sutton, "We know that alcohol and UV rays decrease viral particles."

It is important to note that an "off" smell is a sign that it's time to discard a disposable mask. Dr. Sutton notes that masks can also expire, so it is essential to check the expiration date and dispose of the mask if it has passed its expiry.

Mask Prep Cloth Face Mask Freshener Spray, which contains 70% isopropyl alcohol, can also be used to deodorize and freshen cloth face masks. Spray both sides of the mask with one or two pumps and let it dry for about 20 seconds. This product can be used as often as necessary and leaves behind a clean scent.

Masks with an unpleasant odour may be washed or replaced

Mask freshening sprays, such as Mask Prep Cloth Face Mask Freshener Spray, are designed to help deodorize and freshen cloth face masks. These sprays typically contain around 70% isopropyl alcohol and can be used by spraying both sides of the mask and letting it dry for about 20 seconds. While these sprays can help improve the smell of your mask, they are not a substitute for proper mask hygiene.

If you are experiencing an unpleasant odour with your face mask, it is important to address the issue. An unpleasant odour may indicate that your mask needs to be washed or replaced. Proper mask hygiene is crucial to ensure the effectiveness of the mask and maintain your comfort while wearing it.

To wash a reusable mask, you can use a washing machine or hand wash it with soap and water. Make sure to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. It is also recommended to disinfect disposable masks between uses. One way to do this is by using a spray bottle with 60% isopropyl alcohol and misting the mask, then letting it dry on a windowsill.

By addressing the unpleasant odour and maintaining proper mask hygiene, you can help ensure the effectiveness of your mask and improve your comfort while wearing it. Remember to always follow the recommended guidelines for mask usage and replacement to stay safe and healthy.

Masks can expire and should be checked for an expiration date

Manufacturers mark their masks with expiration dates. For example, 3M states that their masks have a shelf life of 5 years when stored in their original packaging and in the correct climate conditions. The CDC has also tested samples of masks past their expiration date and found that they were still effective at providing better protection than surgical masks, improvised face coverings, or no mask at all.

Disposable masks will have a best-by date on the packaging, and while this period is likely to be several years away, it is important to use the masks before this date to get the best protection. Reusable masks are washable and safe to reuse, and for the best results, these should be washed according to the instructions on the package and hung to dry.

Face masks do have a shelf life, and over time, the active ingredients can lose their potency, and the overall effectiveness of the mask can diminish. Clay and peel-off masks generally last longer than cream masks, and natural ingredients may lead to quicker expiration due to a lack of preservatives. Exposure to heat, light, and moisture can also degrade the product, speeding up its expiration.

To ensure that your face masks last as long as possible, store them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to keep the ingredients stable. Always ensure that the product is sealed tightly after use to prevent air exposure, and keep track of when you opened the product, along with its expiration date, to avoid using it beyond its prime.

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