The COVID-19 pandemic almost brought the entire world to a standstill, especially due to its fast transmission and high number of fatal outcomes. A lot of research has gone into the pandemic, especially on how to reduce its transmission. While some people advocate for herd immunity, prevention is better than cure.
Although there is an ongoing effort to vaccinate as many people as possible against COVID-19, curbing its transmission requires wearing a face mask, especially in public. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends wearing a cloth over the face where proper face masks are not available.
Several research studies show that the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 is transmissible even by persons who do not show any symptoms. Thus, wearing a face mask can help reduce the transmission of this virus. Fortunately, you can make your own face mask using readily available materials, including coffee filters. In this article, we will show you how to make a mask out of coffee filters.
Why a Mask Made Of Coffee Filters Is Better Than Nothing
While the N95 respirator masks are the most ideal face masks for preventing the spread of COVID-19 through respiration, they are not accessible to many people. To make matters worse, they are not reusable. They can only be worn for a few hours, after which they should be disposed of appropriately. Besides, they are very expensive.
So are there any alternatives? Well, if you cannot afford N95 respirators, or they are out of stock in the retail market, you can make your own face mask at home. Simple makeshift masks made from coffee filters are a great last resort for protection against COVID-19. Also, you can wear them over an N95 respirator or surgical mask when infected or when taking care of an ill family member.
Although it might sound like a crazy idea to make a face mask out of coffee filters, it is something even medical workers are doing when in short of medical masks. Also, there are design companies making prototype masks using coffee filters.
How to Make a Mask Out Of Coffee Filters
Supplies needed:
- Coffee filter
- Scissors
- Yarn
- Stapler
Instructions:
Step 1– Cut two pieces of yarn. Each piece should be at least 16 inches long. It will be easier for you to trim any excess yarn after making the mask rather than making a mask without enough length of yarn to tie.
Step 2– Fold the top quarter of a paper coffee filter horizontally.
Step 3– Insert the yarn you cut into the fold.
Step 4– Staple the yarn with the help of a stapler to keep it secured in place.
Step 5– Make another fold on the bottom quarter of the paper filter. Attach the second yarn to the bottom fold.
Step 6– Your mask is now ready for you. You can tie it over any medical-grade face mask. Also, you can use it as your face mask whenever you do not have access to a medical mask.
If you reside in an area where medics need extra protective equipment for COVID-19, we recommend you ask them how you can help. Probably, you might help by making face masks out of coffee filters.
Also read: What is the Difference Between 2 and 4 Coffee Filters?