With face coverings becoming mandatory in Melbourne's lockdown areas this week, we've seen a marked increase in the number of locals seeking information on the protective face masks we have available. One of the most common questions we get is how exactly to wash the masks after use, so today we've put together a straightforward guide to washing your reusable masks that may just come in handy.

Cleaning Your Personal Face Coverings

The cotton reusable face masks that we sell here at Cubic Promote are suitable for both machine and hand washing. Those looking to pop their masks into the washing machine with their other washables at the end of the day will be pleased to hear that you can do that fine, no additional steps are required. A warm machine wash with detergent will get your masks nice and clean again in a jiffy. However, what happens if you need to clean your mask in a hurry or don't have access to a washing machine? Then hand washing your personal face mask is the best choice.

1) Use Warm Water and Soap

It may seem obvious but cleaning your reusable face mask by hand really is not that different from washing your own hands in an effective manner. First, you'll want to use some warm (not boiling) water and some soap or appropriate detergent. Wet the face mask with the warm water in your sink, add the soap, and gently rub the sides of the mask together until the soap begins to foam.

2) Rinse With Warm Water and Squeeze Out Excess

Once you've soaped up the mask to a degree that is recommended by the manufacturer, it is time to give the mask a rinse -- nobody wants to be breathing in a strong soapy smell all day! Rinse gently in warm water until the soap is no longer visible on the mask. Turn the water off and you can squeeze out the excess water by twisting the mask. If you'd prefer to do it in a way that minimises the impact on the mask, you may do so using a hand towel over the mask while you squeeze.

3) Dry Completely Before Reusing

So your mask is now hand-washed, what's next? It is time to dry it before you pop it on again! If you have access to a dryer you can pop it in with a load of other clothes, or you can lay it out flat to air dry. The option recommended by the DHHS in VIC is to dry your mask in direct sunlight (which is what we've done above). Repeat the process for all your reusable masks that need washing, but be sure to wash your hands afterward as well!

And there you have it, hand-washing reusable masks 101. Be sure to take care while wearing and maintaining your reusable mask to ensure it lasts as long as possible. If you feel the mask becoming loose, the mask starts getting holes, or the material starts to feel thin it is time to replace the mask. If you have any other questions about using bulk face masks or any product in the Cubic Promote range, feel free to speak with our sales team for personal guidance and information.

References: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/face-masks-covid-19#how-do-i-wash-my-cloth-