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Do some face masks offer more protection than others? We tested more than 20 different consumer masks to determine if the style, fabric, fit and number of layers make a difference when it comes to guarding against the #coronavirus. Here’s what we learned… 1/12
All mask - unless they have a valve — can prevent the spread of COVID-19. But they have to fit properly. It should fully cover your nose and chin, and be as tight as possible around the rest of your face. If your glasses fog up, pick another mask. 2/12 http://www.cbc.ca/1.5795481
Next, our lab test showed masks made of melt-blown, non-woven polypropylene fabric offer similar levels of protection as an N95 — the gold standard in masking, often worn by health-care workers. 3/12
What is polypropylene?
Think of how cotton candy is made. This type of polypropylene fabric is molded and spun, making it almost impossible for particles to escape. 4/12
Think of how cotton candy is made. This type of polypropylene fabric is molded and spun, making it almost impossible for particles to escape. 4/12
Here’s University of Toronto professor James Scott explaining why melt-blown, non-woven polypropylene works so well in a mask. 5/12
Canada’s top doctor recommends three-layer masks. But we found more layers don’t necessarily mean a better mask, especially when it comes to cotton. 6/12 http://www.cbc.ca/1.5787946
A lot of three-layer masks we tested didn't perform as well as two-layer masks. So more layers doesn't necessarily mean more protection. Turns out it has a lot to do with thread count. 7/12
Masks made with 600-680 thread-count cotton have a tighter weave that prevents more potentially harmful particles carrying the coronavirus from getting in.
These photos taken under a microscope show the difference between high-thread-count and low-thread-count weaves. 8/12
These photos taken under a microscope show the difference between high-thread-count and low-thread-count weaves. 8/12
But manufacturers of consumer masks in Canada are not currently required to disclose thread count on their labels. Still, whenever possible, look for high-thread-count cotton or an inner layer of melt-blown, non-woven polypropylene — like those blue disposable masks. 9/12
What masks should you avoid?
Bandannas and neck gaiter-style masks
Masks made of rayon material
All performed poorly in our lab test when it came to filtration because they are made from thin, porous materials that let particles that could be carrying the virus in and out. 10/12
Bandannas and neck gaiter-style masks
Masks made of rayon material
All performed poorly in our lab test when it came to filtration because they are made from thin, porous materials that let particles that could be carrying the virus in and out. 10/12
And, never wear a valve mask. It could help spread the coronavirus to others. 11/12
Tonight @cbcmarketplace will bring you the latest on emerging science that suggests masks may actually help you get less sick, even if you do catch COVID-19. Watch at 8 p.m. on @CBC TV and Gem. 12/12
