Numerous different types of PPE exist today: find out how to wash and sanitise your reusable face masks.
Owing to the current health crisis, face masks have become part of our everyday lives. This type of PPE has been - and still is - key to combating the spread of Coronavirus: there are however numerous different types, which need to be sanitised using different methods. So, what procedures need to be followed in order to disinfect and sanitise washable face masks in the washing machine?
Face masks: the various different types
There are numerous different types of PPE, which include face masks. The following are currently available:
- group 1 filtering masks or FFPs (Filtering Face Pieces) with a guaranteed filtering capacity - to filter particles suspended in the air - of at least 80%;
- group 2 (with a capacity of 92-94%), with or without valve;
- group 3 (with a capacity of 98-99%), with or without valve;
- surgical masks, composed of three overlapping layers of non-woven fabric fitted with elastic and brandishing the CE mark.
Hygienic reusable fabric face masks are yet another option. The latter represent a valid, economical and, above all, ecological alternative. According to several recent studies, one billion protective face masks are currently being used in UK each month, with the disposal of non-reusable masks having a significant impact on the health of the population. So, how do you wash and sanitise reusable face masks in the washing machine?
How do you wash reusable face masks?
The need to wash protective fabric face masks has led Candy to launch two new washing cycles, which have been specifically developed to disinfect and sanitise this type of PPE:
- ‘Face mask sanitisation’, from 110 minutes at 60°;
- ‘Face mask cleaning’ from 45 minutes at 40°.
These two cycles will allow you to disinfect face masks, gloves and other forms of fabric PPE: you won’t need to worry about temperatures, timings, load quality or how much detergent to use.
To activate these new washing cycles - available with the washing machines and washer-dryers from the Bianca and RapidO’ ranges - simply update the Candy Simply-Fi App and open the programmes in the ‘Health and Hygiene’ section connected to your appliance. Select the desired washing cycle and all the parameters will be set automatically. Avoid using ECO and synthetic programmes and when it comes to drying always favour the use of the tumble dryer, using high temperatures, or dry in the open air. The elevated and concentrated level of heat provided by the tumble dryer offers additional protection, enough to kill the majority of microorganisms. You may also wish to use the iron, opting for the cotton or linen setting, to kill any eventual residual germs.
Your washable face masks will therefore come out immaculately clean and sanitised: the two programmes are in fact guaranteed by studies conducted at the Haier Europe laboratories in collaboration with international associations and will enable you not only to sanitise your PPE, but also to reduce consumption and do your bit for the environment.
For perfect sanitation, the use of specific detergents / additives is recommended
