do you wear Is it a mask? Currently, guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is that if you live in a community with moderate or high levels of Covid-19, you should continue to wear a fitted mask or respirator. Many people are now living in areas with low levels of Covid-19 (you can check local levels here). However, you can wear a mask anytime, anywhere. The CDC recommends that you wear them on indoor transportation, and local authorities may also require masks.
A good mask is a key tool to help slow the spread of Covid-19. We have been equipping our children and adapting our practices as new science-based advice emerges. These are some of the masking and masking practices that I and the rest of the WIRED staff are using. Wear a mask, but remember to stay home as much as possible, increase ventilation in indoor spaces, get regular checkups, and stay at least six feet away from others in public (preferably outdoors).
How we choose masks
Materials testing organization ASTM International also recently released the first manufacturing standards for what constitutes a good face shield. Based on these guidelines, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is now recommending that if you’re going to the office, use a mask that meets the ASTM minimum workplace performance guidelines.
New guidance and standards mean it’s now difficult for me to recommend the cloth face coverings we recommended early in the pandemic. Every mask manufacturer needs time to test their products. In the meantime, make sure your masks fit and are clean, following CDC-recommended guidelines. A good reusable mask should completely cover your nose and mouth, use at least two layers of fabric, and be washable. When I received the mask, I first tested with light and candles – can I see the light through the fabric? Can a candle be blown out? The weave of the mask should be tight enough to prevent you from doing these things. Then I wear them while grocery shopping or walking the dog.
We have some tips on mask care and choosing the best mask straps at the end of this list. Be sure to check out our guide on the best N95, KF94, and KN95 face shields, the best face shields for kids, and how to prevent and treat Mascne.
Update August 2022: We’ve updated our guidance to add information about current mask regulations and where to find free masks, and removed options that are no longer in stock.
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