The Best Filter Options for Your African Fabric DIY Face Mask
Even though masks have become a necessity in many situations, that does not mean they are not a fashion statement too.
As DIY sewers descended upon the whole mask-making venture, they quickly discovered people wanted masks that were not just functional, but beautiful too.
Hence the creation of the gorgeous African fabric mask.
Does Your African Fabric Mask Offer Enough Protection Though?
The reality is even the greatest looking mask may not be offering enough protection. Especially if it is made of thin fabric or has a looser weave and is unable to catch the many aerosol-sized particles that scientists are concerned about with the COVID virus.
This is where filters come into play. While no filter will be 100% effective, some materials are certainly more effective than others.
1. HEPA Vacuum Filters
If you have HEPA-certified vacuum filters in your home, you are in luck. These are considered are among the best household items to use. They have high efficiency for filtering very small particles, including the microscopic droplets responsible for the majority of respiratory virus transmission.
Plus, they are breathable and fairly easy to find. They also do not give up large amount of inhalable synthetic materials.
If filters are not easily at your behest, however, you can also use HEPA vacuum bags or even air conditioner filters. The huge caveat here though is to ensure that neither is made with dangerous materials, such as fiberglass.
It is important that you only use filters or bags that are made of polypropylene and NOT fiberglass, which brings us to our next material.
2. Non-Woven Polypropylene
If you happen to have a non-shiny reusable fabric grocery bag, wine bag, or tote bag in your kitchen, then you likely have a bag made with polypropylene non-woven fibers. As it turns out, this material is also adequate for filtering.
In fact, non-woven polypropylene comprises the filters in N95 masks – the medical-grade masks that protect mostly healthcare workers from up to 95% of airborne particles. It should be noted though that the thickness is different in the bags than in the N95 masks.
Still, they are highly effective. Plus, unlike N95 masks, a DIY African fabric face mask with a non-woven polypropylene filter from a tote bag is completely washable.
3. Coffee Filters or Paper Towels
You have probably seen DIY face masks with a coffee filter or paper towel inserts all over Pinterest or Instagram.
Coffee filters and paper towels may be better than nothing at all. These two options have poor filtration properties and are incapable of filtering out microscopic particles. Plus, they become easily saturated with moisture and cannot be washed.
Thus, they are a single-use option that may provide minimal extra protection if you have no other choices. So, stick with the HEPA filters and bags or the non-woven polypropylene if you can.
Add Protection to Your Style
By incorporating the proper filters, you can start sporting your dazzling African fabric mask with extra confidence.
If you are looking for even more stunning African fabrics and textiles for masks or other sewing projects, take a look at our huge selection. You will not be disappointed.
AKN Fabrics is recognized worldwide for selling the highest quality African fabrics and textiles at low prices. With new designs arriving daily, we always have a great selection of African fabrics and textiles to choose from.