What Mask Filters Should We Sell?

Why do we need a filter to begin with? The mask is to protect others, not yourself. If you want to protect yourself you need a medical grade mask (mind it’s quite difficult to breathe wearing that one, especially if you’re active), you need to shield your eyes, and then follow strict protocols. How many people are actually going to do that?

I have recently read an article about the most effective materials for mask air filtration in Business Insider – https://www.businessinsider.com/the-materials-that-filter-particles-best-in-homemade-masks-testing-2020-4

This says that using blue shop towels as filters can improve filtration and provides a two mask patterns.

Filters are a balance of a few things, I think. Comfort is one thing because if you aren’t breathing comfortably, you are less likely to use the filter. The most effective filter is still only as effective as the fit of the mask which is relative in cotton masks and varies with face size and shape. Given that cloth masks will unlikely reach a filtration level of an N95 as there are no seals around the mask, I think the cotton filter is the most desirable combination of sustainability, reasonable protection, and comfort.

Best to go with the proving when it comes to a breathing health issue. I would also look into vacuum cleaner bag material I have heard that that has close to an N 95 rating. I do not know if those are recyclable though.

I am not interested in something unproven. Pm2.5 has my vote.

I vote for the biodegradable organic fiber filter or something sustainable. I have been making masks for family and friends. I have been making out of cotton fabric and lining them with silk. I got this tip from another mask maker. Fortunately, I have any vintage pieces for silk in my fabric larder. I also have many, many yards of 100% cotton fabric. For people making a quick trip to a known safe place I also make a few masks from Tee shirt type fabrics. I hope that information helps.

I have etee masks and also make my own. I use a layer of nonwoven fabric between the inner and outer cotton layers. I use Oly Fun fabric (https://www.fairfieldworld.com/using-olyfun-for-face-masks-what-you-need-to-know/). The manufacturer claims if you sew it in, it could eventually break down in the washer/dryer, but I sew mine in and have not had any problems. You can also use it as a removable filter, and it can be reused by cleaning it with Lysol or bleach between uses.

I’m fairly indifferent. I have coffee filters and can easily cut them to fit. I’m not sure anyone would need to buy coffee filters from etee. Therefore, I’d say try selling the proven filters because there will be customers who really want them. Keep working on the reusable ones if you can because they might be popular if they are at all helpful. I agree with the point that masks are going to be leaky so the decision should take account of that (meaning a high-end filter might be wasted or might offset the leakiness). Another mod I’ve made is to staple a bendy metal coffee bag clasp onto the top of the mask to create a seal above my nose to prevent my glasses from fogging up. Have to remove staples before washing though.