The CDC recently changed its recommendation on wearing face masks. In addition to social isolation techniques, homemade cloth face masks are recommended if you have to go into public areas. They\u2019re recommending them during trips to grocery stores and pharmacies.<\/p>\n
Buying a mask is not going to be easy. As a result, most people are making their own masks. It\u2019s an easy project that your parents and children can help you with. Here are the steps you need to take to make a homemade cloth mask that doesn\u2019t require any sewing.<\/p>\n
Gather Your Supplies<\/strong><\/p>\n To make these masks, you want cotton bandannas or cotton fabric squares that are at least the 22 by 22 standard square. Oversize bandannas may be better if you can find them. You also want two extra-large rubber bands or hair ties for each face mask.<\/p>\n Wash the Fabric Square<\/strong><\/p>\n Before you start, you should wash the cotton square in hot water. Dry it completely in the dryer. You want the fabric shrink as much as it\u2019s going to. This way, you don\u2019t have to worry about washing it later and finding it no longer fits. It also ensures you\u2019re starting with sterile material.<\/p>\n Make the Mask<\/strong><\/p>\n Take the cotton fabric square and fold it to the middle of the cloth from the top and then the bottom. Repeat that step again with the folded portions. You now have a narrow rectangle. Slide a rubber band or hair tie on one end and repeat. You want the rubber band to be positioned about three inches from the edges.<\/p>\n Fold in the edges so that each end covers the rubber band and reaches the center of the rectangle. At this point, the homemade cloth mask is ready to wear. Hold it steady as you cover your mouth and nose with the cloth and loop the rubber bands around both ears. Shift the fabric as needed to completely cover your nose and mouth.<\/p>\n Do you need a visual to help you? Watch the CDC\u2019s instructional video to see how they recommend making the .<\/p>\n