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Health is the new wealth! Keep your face masks clean with these helpful tips

Face masks are now a part of our *must-have* items when leaving our homes.

From maintaining 6 feet distance at the local grocery store to skipping bestie hangs in order to social distance, you're *all* about staying responsible...but are you forgetting one important step? On your way to grab your favorite ice cream from Ben & Jerry's, you put on the same mask from your earlier Starbs run. *Ring the alarm!* We have a problem. Therefore it is important to ensure we are maintaining sanitation guidelines. Don’t worry—we have all the sanitation tips to keep your face masks clean so you're safe *and* fashionable.

Step 1: Preparation for sanitation
It is essential to wash your hands thoroughly before and after cleaning your face masks. Have a disposable bag ready to place your face mask in after removal. 

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Step 2: Safely remove your face mask

While removing the mask, you want to prevent the exterior side of the mask from touching your face. Always remove your face mask by lifting the elastic ear band to prevent physical contact with the exterior side of the mask. Fold the mask in half, ensuring the inside of the mask is now facing the outside. Immediately place the mask in the reusable bag before washing your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds.

Step 3: Wash your face mask

Place your masks in a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase and ensure the temperature of the washing machine is set to at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The higher the washing setting, the better to fight bacteria. Make sure to use a detergent with a disinfectant or bleach solution.

Image: https://www.cdc.gov/

Step 4: Dry your face mask

You can tumble dry your face masks using the highest setting or simply place your face masks in direct sunlight. 

Image: https://www.cdc.gov/

If you don’t have a washer or dryer don’t fret! You can still effectively sanitize your masks.

Step 1: Create a disinfectant

Combine a gallon of water with five tablespoons of a bleach product that is intended for disinfection.

Image: https://www.cdc.gov/

Step 2: Soak and rinse the mask

 Let the mask soak with the disinfectant for at least five minutes before rinsing the mask with cool water.

3. Rinse and dry

Let the mask dry in direct sunlight for up to a day.

Image: https://www.cdc.gov/

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by Samantha Dorisca | 7/13/2020
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