10 Wrong Ways of Wearing Face Masks

The wearing of face masks, along with face shields, and the observation of proper social distancing are of vital importance in the prevention of the spread of airborne and droplet-transmitted diseases such as the COVID-19. Unfortunately, the rise in the number of COVID-19 cases in the Philippines can be attributed to the improper execution of these safety protocols, particularly the wearing of face masks. To protect yourself better, read these 10 WRONG WAYS of wearing face masks which should be avoided at all costs.

The proper donning of face masks and face shields, practicing social distancing, and getting vaccinated, each adds an extra layer of protection to you and the people around you. Always remember that the mantra should not always be “lamang ang may alam,” because in these trying times, it is more appropriate to say, “ligtas ang may alam.”

1. Criss-crossing the Elastic Strap

Crossing the strap over the other will create vents by the sides of your masks which will result in giving any airborne pathogen an opportunity to be inhaled.

The straps of the face mask should always be worn properly, with the strap circumventing the ear. The straps SHOULD NOT cross over the other in an attempt to make the mask ‘fit,’ as shown on the photo.

2. Nose Poking Out

Masks should be worn covering the nose and mouth. Both areas should be covered by the mask with no vents present.

3. Exposed Chin Area

Wearing masks with the chin area exposed is incorrect. The nose, mouth, and chin should be covered by the mask. If worn properly, it would give the appropriate protection against the virus.

5. Loose or Tight Masks

Appropriate mask size matters as it helps in ensuring safety and comfortableness. Masks that are too loose may leave vents that would lower the efficacy of the mask, while those that are too tight may be uncomfortable to wear (e.g., cannot breathe properly with tight masks). Choose the mask that is of the right size for you.

6. Wrong Side Facing Outward

Masks should be worn with the colored side facing outwards. The colored side (i.e., the blue side) is waterproof, while the white side is absorbent. This means that the white side should be worn facing inwards as it would absorb the cough/sneeze droplets coming from you.

7. Wrong Type of Masks

The type of mask to be worn should be right to ensure safety from contracting or spreading the virus. Not only this, the right type of mask also ensures breathability.

8. Dirty or Wet Masks

Wearing a dirty or wet mask is not just unhygienic, it is also unsafe. If the mask (e.g., surgical mask) is dirty, wet, or used, dispose of it properly. Some masks, such as those made of fabric, can be reused; however, it requires proper handling, drying, and sterilization to secure enough that it is safe to reuse.

9. Hanging the Strap on one Ear

Always ensure that the mask covers all areas: nose, mouth, and chin.

10. Sharing of Masks

Do not share your mask with others. This is unhygienic and unsafe as the used mask contains droplets of cough/sneeze from the person who used it, increasing the risk of transmitting the virus.

Also, check our the Department of Health's reminders when going outside of your homes in this time of pandemic: