Guide to Buying Reusable Masks.

Throughout the current coronavirus pandemic, the use face masks, partly regulated in many nations and regional governments, has resulted in rapidly increasing interest and use of these masks. In particular, partly due to supply shortages, reusable masks have obtained greater interest amongst consumers; these masks also provide an environmental advantage due to the indefinite reusability of the masks. However, the various different forms of mask, coupled with the supplemental filtration often usable with them mean not all masks are identical and some are superior than others.

According to most medical experts, a single layer cloth mask is insufficient alone to reduce the risk of contracting a virus, such as the coronavirus; though these simple masks will usually prevent illness to others.

The masks recommended as most effective comprise two or more layers, and have at least a 600 thread count ( though the greater count the better ), and are pure cotton, which has been determined to be the most effective of easily attainable materials. 

These masks, however, can be often be fitted with filtres, which subsequently improve filtration further; the three most effective supplementary filtration materials are furnace filtres, automotive filtres, and vacuum cleaner bags, all of which provide at least 90% filtration of particles; before using these respective secondary filtration methods, first check to ensure breathing is possible and that no odors are present.

These supplementary filtration options do not guarantee against infection, including infection against a coronavirus, though research has proven these solutions should reduce the likeliness. 

Various brands offer masks within these specifications and can subsequently provide reasonably high levels of protection; if purchased by quantities of three to five, a mask should always be available for use.

SOURCES:

https://www.nbcnews.com/shopping/wellness/how-buy-face-masks-n1199661

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/may/08/what-kind-of-face-mask-will-best-protect-you-against-coronavirus-covid-19

https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/where-to-find-cloth-face-masks-how-to-choose-them-and-how-to-keep-them-working-1.4953691

https://www.wsj.com/articles/do-diy-masks-help-stop-coronavirus-11587720603