You know masks have become commonplace when they make it into the New York Times fashion pages.
That happened way back in March and now, months later, masks have become as normal as wearing socks. They come in all different colors, fabrics, designs, and sizes and truly are a new kind of fashion accessory. But, just like those shoes and underwear need to be washed after every use, masks come with their own set of hygiene protocols. Namely, they need to be cleaned frequently in order to be beneficial.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends washing masks like other laundry in a gentle detergent or washing by hand. Then making sure the mask is entirely dry before use.
But how, exactly, can you keep your mask ship shape and safe when you’re not near a washer or dryer machine? That’s what we’ll look at here in this guide to gadgets that keep your mask clean and accessible.
Mask lanyards
According to the CDC, we should all limit touching our faces as much as possible. Easier said than done, especially when you need to touch your face to remove a mask. That’s why so many hospital professionals opt for disposable masks. These one and done masks can be tossed after use. When used right, they can be an incredibly clean option.
However, if you or your kids are one of the millions now sporting fabric masks, you know that those can cause concern when they get handled too much. Fortunately, there’s a solution to that.
Enter: Specialist ID’s Kids Face Mask Lanyard / Hanger with Safety Breakaway Clasp. Help little ones avoid constant touching of their faces with this unique tool. By using a specially designed lanyard to strap onto their mask, they can easily pull it free from their face, then let it hang around their neck so it avoids dirty surfaces.
The same concept applies to the adult version of the tool, the Adjustable Length Face Mask Lanyard. Great for professionals or anyone trying to minimize touching their face, this adjustable lanyard hangs on to your mask so you won’t lose it.
But what about when you’re in the car? So often mask wearers see their vehicles as a safe haven and rip off their masks upon entering. But it is good practice to plop a mask on a seat? Rather than resting it on another soiled surface or misplacing it in the backseat where it could get lost, the handy Mask Caddy™ Face Mask Hanger for Car Rear View Mirror or Closet Racks gives you a place to put your mask where you won’t miss it.
Another great gadget for reducing exposure to germs and the coronavirus is a Full Face Protective Shield. While not an alternative to a mask, when used in tandem with a mask it can provide additional protection—and it’s super easy to clean too. Merely use a sanitizing wipe to clean off the PETG grade plastic and you’re ready to go.
Want to keep those around you safe as well? Then opt for the 25 Pack Bulk Face Mask Lanyards. Great for outfitting an entire staff, these lanyards have bulldog clips on the end to easily pinch masks to hold them in place.
Another great gadget that really says it all is Specialist ID’s Extra Large Six Feet Social Distancing Badge Buddy. It reads: “Hello, I’m happy to help from a distance.” This message can be attached to a mask lanyard so that anyone approaching has an immediate notice that you expect them to keep their distance.
Avoiding respiratory droplets from other people is just as important as wearing a mask and insisting that others respect their distance will go a long way in encouraging safe choices.
Ultimately, keeping masks clean and fresh will play a big role in preventing the spread of germs and COVID-19. By finding gadgets that assist in this effort, you can not only protect yourself but those around you.
In addition to great hand hygiene, social distancing, and frequent cleaning of cloth masks, these seven tools can help in the fight against the coronavirus.
It takes commitment and effort to institute these kinds of hygiene changes, but with focus you can make them a part of your daily routine. The pros surely outweigh the price. With most of these tools less than $20, some as little as $2, the investment is a small amount to pay for peace of mind. Whether for yourself, your staff, your family, or friends, these gadgets are a great purchase no matter how you look at it.
For more information on Specialist ID’s innovative health and safety gadgets, visit their website at specialistid.com.