Clean FFP2 masks? It is important to know before the duty
FFP2 masks are on everyone’s lips again. And from tomorrow everyone is talking about it, at least in Bavaria. The special mask requirement for the FFP2 version then applies there. But should you actually clean the protective masks and wear them several times?
Cleaning FFP2 masks: That’s what the RKI says
In times of the corona pandemic, FFP2 and FFP3 masks are considered to be comparatively safe protection. However, the masks are also expensive when you consider that they were principally made for one-time use. Only a few commercially available models are actually labeled as reusable. But here, too, the period of use is limited. New studies show that FFP2 and FFP3 masks can also be cleaned, but this is not necessarily recommended.
At the beginning of the pandemic in spring 2020, even some official bodies recommended cleaning FFP2 masks after use. However, this happened against the background of delivery bottlenecks that no longer exist in Germany. It was recommended that the masks be cleaned with heat, ethanol or steam sterilization for disinfection. Studies now show that general recommendations do not help, as the masks from different manufacturers are very different in their composition and can react differently to cleaning methods.
Even if some of the masks are reusable, it is also clear that they will lose their filter performance over time. The Robert Koch Institute advises accordingly Stuttgart news refrain from cleaning FFP masks with disinfectant. You should also refrain from heating in the microwave, since protective masks usually have metallic components.
You can find out what other protective masks look like in the video:
Important with FFP masks: hygienic handling
FFP masks can prevent infection with Covid-19. However, if the masks are used over a longer period of time, they offer less protection. It is always important to be hygienic in order to keep the risk of infection as low as possible. The masks should be changed regularly. In another article we will explain what to look for when buying FFP masks.
