Washing Face Masks and Keeping them Fresh Longer

Face masks can get to stinking really fast! Washing face masks is the best way to keep them clean but you can also freshen them with a spray!

Masks have become a way of life right now. While we won’t debate the pros or cons of wearing a mask, we will talk about how to keep them clean and fresh smelling. Here’s a simple spray that will help keep odors away!

How to Clean Masks

Washing face masks depends on what material they are. Most masks are either polyester or cotton, sometimes a combination of both. Except for the disposable ones, you can wash most of them in the washing machine. I’ve had a few disposable masks get into the washer, forgotten in a pocket somewhere, and they come out fine, but many will just shred on you. Hang them to dry. Do not put them in the dryer. This destroys synthetic fibers and will shrink cotton ones.

Washing Face Masks

You can also hand wash them. If there are any traces of bacteria or virus on them, the soap you use will destroy the outer surface of the cell, leaving the virus deflated and broken. This is the main reason that the CDC advises washing your hands. It’s not the lifting and carrying away of the germs, but the action of destroying them. Want a soap-free way to clean your masks? Try an alternative like yucca root or soapwort.

Whichever way you choose to wash your masks, be sure to rinse thoroughly and dry well.

Freshen Your Mask

After washing face masks, use this simple spray to keep them fresher, longer. You make it with ingredients you likely already have in your home or can easily get a hold of. Remember that the amounts may seem minute, but you’ll be breathing in the vapors from the oils. Small amounts are best!

Equipment

• one 3-4 ounce spray bottle with a fine mist sprayer

Ingredients

• 2.5 ounces distilled or purified water
• 2 drops lavender essential oil
• .5 ounces alcohol (I use 40% vodka)

Instructions

1. Mix all of the above in the spray bottle and shake well to distribute oils.
2. After washing face masks lightly spray the outside of your mask.
3. Let dry before using it.

That’s it! Lavender essential oil is known to have antibacterial properties and could aid in killing germs as you spray the mask. Other essential oils that can be used include rosemary, tea tree, frankincense, chamomile, geranium, Ylang Ylang, and patchouli.

If you experience any irritation from the oils, choose a different oil or cut it back to one drop.

Washing face masks are most important but now you also know how to freshen your mask!

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Washing Face Masks and Keeping them Fresh Longer was written by Debra Maslowski.

* This article was originally published here