Wearing a mask has been an essential method of preventing the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Recently, double masking has gained attention as an extra precaution to minimize the spread of the virus. But is double masking really effective for everyday use, and how should it be done?

The Effectiveness of Double Masking as a COVID-19 Prevention Effort

At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, experts recommended wearing a single surgical mask for daily protection. However, newer research has suggested that double masking may offer enhanced protection against the transmission of the virus.

Studies have shown that a surgical mask alone blocks about 56.1% of airborne particles and droplets that could carry the coronavirus (source: CDC). But when a cloth mask is layered over a surgical mask, the protection improves significantly, reaching 85.4% (source: CDC).

Moreover, when someone who is not wearing a mask coughs or sneezes near someone wearing a double mask, the risk of transmission drops by 83%. If both individuals wear double masks, the combined protection can reduce the transmission potential by up to 96.4%.

One reason for this increased protection is that surgical masks often leave gaps around the nose, chin, and cheeks, which can let droplets or airborne particles enter. Double masking helps to close these gaps, improving overall filtration and coverage.

Rules for Proper Double Mask Use

While experts support double masking, it's important to note that not all masks are suitable for layering. For example, wearing two surgical masks or two cloth masks together has not been shown to provide better protection.

Surgical masks are not designed to be worn in layers with other surgical masks, as this does not enhance air or droplet filtration. The recommended method for double masking is to wear a surgical mask on the inside, followed by a cloth mask on the outside.

Recommended Method for Double Masking:

1. Wear a surgical mask as the inner layer. Adjust the mask’s nose wire to fit snugly around your nose and face to close any gaps. Make sure the straps are securely behind your head, covering the chin and ear gaps.

2. Cover the surgical mask with a 3-ply cloth mask. Ensure the cloth mask straps are also securely tied behind your head, covering the chin, nose, and cheeks.

Check for gaps. If you feel air escaping from the top or bottom of the mask, adjust its position until it fits securely. While it's important to have a tight fit, if the mask makes breathing or visibility difficult, replace it with a better-fitting cloth mask.

Among the various types of masks, KN95 masks do not need to be double-masked with a cloth mask, as KN95 masks already provide excellent filtration.

Should Children Wear Double Masks?

Currently, there is no specific research or guidance recommending double masking for children. Some experts believe that children should not wear double masks, as it could interfere with their breathing. Instead, the CDC suggests knotting and tucking the straps of a single mask to improve the fit and minimize gaps.

After Use, Can Cloth Masks Be Reused?

Surgical masks should only be used once and discarded immediately after use. To prevent recycling, remember to cut them up before disposal. On the other hand, cloth masks can be reused after being washed thoroughly and dried properly.

Wearing a mask is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from the spread of COVID-19. However, remember that mask use should always be paired with other preventive habits, such as washing hands frequently with soap or hand sanitizer, maintaining physical distance, avoiding crowded areas, and reducing unnecessary travel.

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