One of the few things 2019’s pandemic has ‘normalized’ forever is facemasks. Ever since the fear of getting infected has gripped every person on the planet, regardless of age, gender, designation, or power, people have started covering their mouths and noses with masks every time they step out. They’ve become mandatory accessories one must put on irrespective of whether or not they match the outfit they’re wearing! At this rate, it won’t be long before the new generation (or “the pandemic babies”) starts believing that masks are a part of daily clothes.

Pexels| Due to 2019’s pandemic, wearing facemasks constantly has become normal

Jokes aside, even though wearing masks all the time can be pretty uncomfortable, they do help decrease the virus spread to a large extent. Keeping both angles in mind, a more comfortable range of masks seems to be an ideal solution, and that’s where homemade or DIY facemasks step in.

But then, are DIY masks really effective in keeping people safe? Let’s try to find out.

What are DIY masks, and how can you make them?

DIY, or do-it-yourself, masks are handmade masks that one can create at home. They can be made out of layers of terry cloth, which has been tested and proven to be safe against infection spread. In fact, more than 70 types of fabrics have been tested for effectiveness against the virus, and it’s been found that terry cloth (among a couple of others) is almost as effective as the N95 mask to block the infection from entering the body.

There are, in fact, several combinations of fabrics and materials that can trap and absorb germs (some people have even used old T-shirts to make masks, and surprisingly, they work). So it seems that the only thing you need to know is which materials are the most effective to prevent germs from spreading and how you can layer them tactically in addition to sewing them to fit your face exactly.

Pexels | DIY face masks may be more comfortable and better fitting, and they’re actually pretty effective

But just like every coin has two sides, some experts claim that DIY masks aren’t as beneficial as regular masks. All that they can do is keep you slightly covered if someone around you is coughing or sneezing. Well if you ask us, that’s a start!

A quick look at the perks of DIY masks

One of the best benefits of DIY masks is that they can be reused. Proper washing with hot water and sanitization of such masks can ensure they stay clean. This helps reduce wastage to a great extent, and you also save a lot. Plus, as already highlighted, such masks often fit better and are more comfortable, so people can stop being apprehensive about wearing them all the time.

Pexels | If you use the right fabric and the right sewing method, a DIY facemask can actually be as effective as an N95 mask

Summing it up

DIY face masks are surprisingly helpful and very easy to make. They can also be suited to your skin if you make them out of good quality fabric. For people who find it difficult to breathe in N95 masks, homemade masks which are similarly effective can prove to be a blessing in disguise.