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How to Select, Wear, and Clean Your Mask

CDC has updated its mask-wearing guidance. CDC recommends that you wear masks in public settings around people who don’t live in your household and when you can’t stay 6 feet away from others. Masks help stop the spread of COVID-19 to others.

Overview

• Wear masks with two or more layers to stop the spread of COVID-19
• Wear the mask over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin
• Masks should be worn by people two years and older
• Masks should NOT be worn by children younger than two, people who have trouble breathing, or people who cannot remove the mask without assistance
• Do NOT wear masks intended for healthcare workers, for example, N95 respirators

How to Select

When selecting a mask, there are many choices. Here are some dos and don’ts.

How to Wear

Do wear a mask that

• Covers your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin
• Fits snugly against the sides of your face

How to Clean

Masks should be washed regularly. Always remove masks correctly and wash your hands after handling or touching a used mask.  

• Include your mask with your regular laundry
• Use regular laundry detergent and the warmest appropriate water setting for the cloth used to make the mask 
• Use the highest heat setting and leave in the dryer until completely dry

For more information on this topic, including about gaiters, face shields, masks and children, wearing masks with glasses, mask wearing mistakes, and how to take off a mask, click the Learn More button below.

Contact Us

Email: EPIC@cdc.gov

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
1600 Clifton Rd
Atlanta, GA 30333

Questions?
Contact CDC-INFO
800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) TTY: 888-232-6348