Back to School 2021: Which Masks are the Most Effective?

Following the guidance from CDC, some states are requiring masks for all kids going to back to school ages 2 and up. With the mask guidelines being updated very frequently, this is leaving a lot of parents to decide which masks will be best for their kids, this 2021 school year.

The main factor in choosing a mask for your child is fit and comfort! If your child's mask is not comfortable during long school hours they may mess with it a lot, exposing them to the airborne particles that may contain Covid-19. When shopping please try to find a mask that covers your child's nose and mouth, and goes all the way down to the chin. Also you don't want the mask to gape along the edges, that can also allow air borne particles to be inhaled.

Double layered and cotton masks are claimed to be some of the most effective masks. It's best to have two or more layers of washable breathable fabric, and a nose wire for it will prevent the air from leaking out of top of your mask. Be aware that Mask made out of vinyl, or other thick materials making it hard to breathe may not be as effective!

If your child will be wearing a neck gaiter or bandana please make sure to double layer it! Easy to pull up and down, but usually made of thin material, these types of masks are at the bottom of the list for safety!

The KN95 mask which are available for kids, are typically for healthcare workers. They are said to have exhalation valves or vents which allow particles to escape, which therefore is not recommended for most effective mask use.

Face shields are now being questioned because of the opening at the bottom. Most experts are stating people should maybe wear a mask in addition to wearing a face shield. It helps to keep your own germs and particles from being released when coughing, which can escape from the bottom opening of the mask. Please wash your kids face shield daily and sanitize!