Since the beginning of the pandemic, masks have become essential ranging from a disposable surgical mask, different cloth masks, and full face shields of all different styles. The most common ones worn by people today include: cloth, filtered, disposable surgical, cone-style, N95 masks, and many more. The question remains, which type of mask is most effective in protecting the population from COVID-19?

According to Cardinal Health, the three main characteristics that determine a mask’s level of protection are, “Resistance to penetration by synthetic blood or minimum pressure for pass result, differential pressure or breathability, and filtration efficiency.” The American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) tests these characteristics through three different levels. Level one consists of, “Low barrier protection or general use for short procedures and exams that don’t involve aerosols, spray or fluids,” Level two abides to, “moderate barrier protection or levels of aerosols, spray and/or fluids.” Lastly, level three dwells on maximum barrier protection regarding, “heavy levels of aerosols, spray and/or fluids.” Knowing and understanding the different ASTM levels of protection is the key to staying healthy. 

Each type of mask itself has its own pros and cons. For example, a normal disposable surgical mask is loose fitting, but, “They’re meant to protect the wearer from contact with droplets and sprays that may contain germs,” said the Mayo Clinic. Cloth masks are, “…intended to trap droplets that are released when the wearer talks, coughs or sneezes,” states the Mayo Clinic. A N95 mask acts as a respirator and, “offers more protection than a medical mask does because it filters out both large and small particles when the wearer inhales,” said the Mayo Clinic. Each type of mask also prevents larger particles in the air or bacteria from penetrating through to reach one’s mouth. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) does not recommend face shields alone because what is imprecise on the amount of protection they provide. However, wearing a face shield is better than wearing no facial protection at all. 

Even though one is wearing a mask over their mouth and nose, there are still other safety precautions that one should abide by. Avoiding touching one’s mask is key considering all the things a person may touch in their daily routine. Washing or sanitizing your hands before and after handling your mask is highly recommended by the CDC as well. As long as your mask is not disposable, it is recommended that one either hand or machine washes it once a week. Lastly, when not putting your mask to use, one should store it where it will not get dirty or exposed to possible bacteria. Some of the most common side effects of wearing different masks can range from fungal acne, runny nose, canker sores, dry throat, and other allergy related defects states the CDC.  

Senior at Sonoma State University Dylan Hellar said, “I like to wear cloth masks compared to other masks, neck gators or shields because they are more comfortable. Wearing the disposable masks for long periods of time actually gives me acne and hurts my ears.” This is just one of the many differences each mask can provide. 

Getting used to wearing a mask around is not ideal, but doing so ensures the safety of oneself and others.