How to Make Your Own Non-Medical Face Mask at Home

by Maddison Glendinning April 6, 2020

Today, Canada’s chief public health officer Dr. Theresa Tam announced that wearing non-medical masks can help to stop the spread of COVID-19. In a press conference, Tam said, “Wearing a non-medical mask, even if you have no symptoms, is an additional measure that you can take to protect others around you” especially in places where social distancing is “difficult to maintain” such as on public transport or at the grocery store. She added that “wearing a non-medical mask can reduce the chance of your respiratory droplets coming into contact with others or landing on surfaces.” Tam was sure to emphasize however that wearing a mask does not mean you can “back off” social distancing measure, nor that you are fully protected from contracting the virus.

The new advice comes as more research emerges showing that some infected people who never have symptoms, or those who are yet to display symptoms (called asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic respectively) are able to transmit the virus.

Tam also urged that medical masks be left for those fighting on the front lines, and that Canadians should create their own masks using items they have at home. There are several tutorials floating around on Instagram already, including by Toronto-based influencers the Beckerman twins, as well as actress Kate Hudson. All you need to create a mask is a scarf, a bandana, a bed sheet or an old T-shirt, and two hair elastics/elastic bands. Just remember to wash the mask regularly after use.

Here’s how to make a DIY face mask at home:

View this post on Instagram

Here’s how to make a homemade, no sew mask with one bandana and two hair elastics. It’s really easy to make. Just make sure to wash it after one use. We know a lot of people are looking for masks and can’t get a hold of them…so here’s what you can make in the mean time! Lots of love and #staysafe and #stayhome #beckermantwins #beckermanvideo #beckermandiy

A post shared by Cailli Beckerman Sam Beckerman (@beckermantwins) on Apr 5, 2020 at 1:46pm PDT

View this post on Instagram

I’m no professional but I learned how to make a homemade mask and thought I would share. I know a lot of people are looking for them and can’t get ahold of them so I’m the meantime a little DIY may be helpful. Remember, this does not prevent you from breathing in droplets but could prevent you from infecting anyone if you are with virus but asymptomatic. Take care out there! Stay healthy ️ Love, Kate

A post shared by Kate Hudson (@katehudson) on Apr 3, 2020 at 2:30pm PDT

There’s plenty of Canadian designers using sewing machines to make masks right now, too, including Dorian Who, Hilary MacMillan, Narces and more. If you’re handy with a sewing machine, we suggest keeping an eye on their Instagram pages as they share information about how they’re making their own masks at this time.

As we continue to face the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest health warnings in Canada via reputable sources such as the Canadian government’s website. And remember to #stayathome as much as you can.

The post How to Make Your Own Non-Medical Face Mask at Home appeared first on FASHION Magazine.