Since the start of COVID-19, face masks have become 2021’s must-have accessory. Throughout the pandemic, most us have chosen to wear reusable cloth masks, and in doing so have accumulated a collection of different colours, styles, and patterns. While this is great for the environment, reusable face masks must be cleaned regularly to ensure they provide the proper protection. What are the best ways to wash our masks to keep them fresh and clean? We’ve come up with a list of our best tips below…

Tip #1: Frequency is Key

When it comes to cloth or reusable face masks, washing it daily or as frequently as possible is ideal. We wear our masks in high traffic areas like grocery stores and on the TTC and that means they’re exposed to air born germs on a regular basis. Keeping your masks clean will reduces your exposure to these germs and can also prevent mask pimples or “mask-ne.”

Tip #2: Handwashing Works Too

When it comes time to clean your mask, the simplest way to wash your mask is to throw it in with a regular load of laundry. However, rather than running a full cycle for one or two masks and wasting water, opt for handwashing as an alternative solution. Handwashing saves water and can be gentler on your mask, allowing it to last longer. We recommend using  Soak, a bio-degradable laundry detergent intended for handwashing that is skin and fabric-friendly and free of harsh chemicals!

Tip #3: Hang to Dry

We recommend hang drying your masks when possible and your mask is completely dry before wear. If you’re short on clothesline space, hanging your mask over a doorknob works too. Although it’s safe to dry your mask in your home dryer, it may shrink or warp your mask’s elasticity. To store, put your masks in a breathable bag such as a paper or mesh fabric. We recommend storing your dirty masks in a sealed Ziploc plastic bag until you can wash them!

These are just a few of our favourite tips when it comes to cleaning your masks. At Gibson’s, we’ve enhanced our own cleaning practices at our facilities, disinfecting, and cleaning surfaces regularly, and encourage our customers to use our contactless pick-up and delivery. Learn more about our at home pick up and delivery dry cleaning service here.