Reference
Experimental Design
While standing in an empty room, researchers put on surgical masks, N95 masks, and different types of cloth masks. Then, they made a mist out of salt water and passed it into the room. As the researchers breathed, the mist naturally filtered through their masks. They compared the amount of salt water particles inside the mask to the number outside the mask: fewer particles inside the mask meant that it was more protective.
Next, the researchers cut a section of pantyhose and wore it over the surgical and cloth masks. This way, the pantyhose closed any gaps in the mask. The salt water mist was passed into the room, and the number of particles found inside and outside the mask were measured again.
Next, the researchers cut a section of pantyhose and wore it over the surgical and cloth masks. This way, the pantyhose closed any gaps in the mask. The salt water mist was passed into the room, and the number of particles found inside and outside the mask were measured again.
Results
Wearing pantyhose over loose masks improves filtering ability!
- Without pantyhose, most cloth masks filtered 60% as well as N95 masks. Surgical masks filtered 75% as well as N95 masks.
- With pantyhose, some cloth masks’ filtering abilities increased dramatically, reaching a maximum of 85%.
- With pantyhose, surgical masks filtered as well as N95 masks
What does this mean?
If your mask doesn’t fit properly, don’t worry! There are many easy ways to make them fit and protect better. Wrapping pantyhose around your mask is one simple yet effective solution.
Don’t have pantyhose? That’s ok! Try one of our other suggested tricks.
Don’t have pantyhose? That’s ok! Try one of our other suggested tricks.
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Up Next: What are the best mask materials?
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