How to correctly use a face mask
To slow the spread of the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19,
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends
wearing cloth face coverings in public places where social
distancing is difficult to maintain, such as grocery stores.
The use of nonmedical masks can reduce transmission of the virus
by people who have it but aren’t experiencing symptoms. Masks
are most effective when worn consistently and properly in order to
avoid contaminating the hands or face of the user.
Here’s how to protect yourself and others when wearing a mask:

PUTTING IT ON
1 With clean

hands, fit the
mask to cover
your mouth,
nose and
chin.

2 Secure it tightly

to minimize gaps
between your
face and the
mask.

Do:
Make sure your mask
covers your face snugly
but comfortably.
Remove and
dispose of
paper masks
and other
personal
protective
equipment, such as
gloves, in the garbage
before you get into
your car or home.
To avoid crosscontamination,
consider carrying a
separate bag to put
your soiled mask in if
you are going to bring
it home to launder.
Always wash your
hands before and after
handling your mask.

3 Once it’s on, do not touch or adjust it. Wash your hands.

REMOVAL
1 Handling only the
straps, untie or
unloop your mask
from behind and
pull it away from
your face. Do not
touch the front of
the mask, your
eyes, nose or
mouth.

2 Immediately throw the mask in the laundry, or the trash if

Don’t:
Don’t pull your mask
down. If you touch it,
wash your hands and
put on a clean one.
Don’t continue to use
your mask if it gets
damp. Replace it.
Don’t reuse single-use
masks. Wear a fresh
one every time.
Don’t wear medical
masks or respirators,
as those should be
reserved for health
care workers.

it’s intended for single use. Wash your hands.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization

JENNIFER LUXTON / THE SEATTLE TIMES