CDC Mask Guidelines

CDC recommends wearing cloth masks in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community-based transmission. CDC also advises the use of cloth masks to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Cloth masks should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the cloth face covering without assistance.

How to wear cloth masks:
• be secured with ties or ear loops
• fit snugly against the side of the face
 

Should cloth masks be washed or otherwise cleaned regularly? 
Yes. They should be routinely washed depending on the frequency of use.

How does one safely sterilize/clean a cloth masks?
A washing machine should suffice in properly washing a cloth face covering.

How does one safely remove a used cloth masks?
Individuals should be careful not to touch their eyes, nose, and mouth when removing their cloth face covering and wash hands immediately after removing.

*Cloth masks are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance.