As parents, we’ve always had our hands full ensuring our kids have well-fitting shoes, pants that won’t fall down, and lunchbox items they’ll actually eat. With the arrival of colder weather, many of us will also be on the lookout for winter coats and extra gloves—because let’s be honest, they always lose one (in our home, it’s perpetually the right glove). If you live in a colder climate, you might also need to shop for snow pants and boots.
However, since 2020, we’ve had to add another essential item to our shopping lists: high-quality, comfortable masks that our children can wear for extended periods, especially during school hours. The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended that, due to the ongoing Delta Variant surge and the fact that younger children are not yet vaccinated, everyone over the age of two should wear masks, regardless of vaccination status, which means masks are here to stay for a while.
With retailers from Amazon to Old Navy, as well as boutique shops on Etsy, jumping into the mask market claiming theirs are the “most comfortable” or “most protective,” it can be daunting to make a choice. Kids can be remarkably particular about what they wear. What works for one may not work for another, and once you find the perfect fit, you’ll also need to understand how to care for it—how often should it be washed? Can it be tossed in with regular laundry? Does it need to be hand-washed? Can it go in the dryer?
Outfitting our kids with the right masks has become a new parenting challenge. Here are some tips on how to select the best option and maintain it properly.
Choosing the Right Mask
When picking a mask, it’s essential to choose one that your child will actually wear comfortably. Parents might be tempted to grab the fanciest, most expensive N95 mask available, but if your child is constantly taking it off, it’s not worth it. “The most effective mask is the one a child will wear consistently and fits properly,” says Jamie Harper, a health expert. “That’s far more crucial than the specific filtration capabilities of different masks.”
For kids who tolerate masks well, it’s worth noting that different types do filter out Covid particles differently. Experts suggest that for the current Delta variant, a double-layered cloth mask or a surgical mask strikes the best balance between comfort and protection. You can check if your cloth mask is double-layered by trying to pull apart the layers.
Although N95 masks offer enhanced security, they may not be the most comfortable for children. A spreadsheet compiled by mechanical engineer Alex Martinez provides details on the effectiveness, age suitability, and adjustability of various children’s masks available for purchase.
Ultimately, the CDC emphasizes that comfort and fit are paramount. A snug, double-layered cloth mask that covers the nose and mouth effectively protects your child from Covid-19.
Caring for Masks
Next up is mask care. Are you aware of how to effectively keep your children’s masks clean? According to the CDC, reusable masks should be washed “whenever they get dirty, or at least daily.” In our home, as soon as the kids get off the bus, they toss their masks directly into the washing machine and wash their hands immediately. This way, dirty masks are sanitized and ready for the next day.
It’s crucial not to send your child to school with the same mask repeatedly without washing it. A dirty mask offers inadequate protection for your child and others.
How should you wash them? The CDC states that there’s no specific method needed. Simply washing them with the rest of your laundry or hand-washing with soap and rinsing thoroughly is perfectly fine. They can be dried in the dryer or air-dried—whatever works for you. Just remember to wash them!
Also, it’s important for both you and your kids to wash or sanitize hands after removing masks for the day, eating, or even just taking a break. Every time you touch your mask, washing your hands is essential.
Key Takeaways
In summary, the basics of mask selection and care are straightforward. Double-layered cloth masks are generally suitable for kids, as are N95s—comfort and acceptance from your child are key. Ensure the mask fits snugly over their nose and mouth. Experiment with different options and let your child choose the most comfortable one, provided it fits well. Wash the masks every day after school, and ensure your child washes their hands after handling their mask.
Finally, praise your kids for their efforts in helping to curb the spread of Covid-19. They’re showing responsibility and resilience during these challenging times. Kids are more capable than we often realize!
For further insights, you can read more about Covid-19 precautions on this blog, or check out this authority piece for more in-depth information. Additionally, Healthline offers excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination.