TOPICS COVERED:
PROTECTION
GOAL OF BANGALORE MASK PROFECT
TEAM
INSTRUCTION MATERIAL
PRICING
PRODUCTION
NEED MASKS? NEED SUPPLIES?
DONATIONS
MASK MATERIALS
HYGIENE + SAFETY OF MASK MAKING
CLEANING + DISINFECTING MASKS
STORING + TRANSPORTING MASKS
WEARING MASKS
MASK SIZING
OTHER QUESTIONS?
PROTECTION
WILL WEARING THE DIY 3-LAYER PROTECTIVE MASK REALLY PROTECT ME FROM COVID-19?
Ok, let’s talk about this – an important question. Yes, these masks are not medical grade, nor do they have any official certificate or FFP or other international mask standards. And no, they can´t protect you from getting infected with Covid-19, like medical grade protection gear, manufactured by a specialized company, packed under sterile conditions, could do.
That being said, let’s look at the bigger picture. The #BangaloreMASKproject features 3 different kinds of masks and shields but it all started with a 3-Layer cotton mask. The brainchild of a German hospital located in Essen, they planned to replace single-use, non-woven, medical-grade facemasks in case of a pandemic. These were thought to be mostly used by patients entering a hospital or an ambulance who are sick, immune-compromised, caretakers of sick or individuals working for social or public services. Doctors and nurses had earlier been clearly identified as persons that should always wear only medical-grade protection gear/ masks.
Fast forward to Covid-19 – a natural disaster in slow motion – resources for this kind of equipment are scarce and hard to get for every country or institution. There is now this – very new- large movement in Germany and many other western countries encouraging the public to produce masks and face shields on a voluntary basis, donating them to everyone in need especially hospitals, firefighters, police, retirement homes, social services and anywhere where people work for the public’s best interest.
All this based on the idea that when strictly following the suggested cleaning and disinfection procedures (for example, washing reusable masks at minimum 60 degrees and hot ironing them on both sides), these masks are a definite option comparable to used N95 masks, bandanas/scarves, trash bags, T-shirts or even wearing no mask at all. Their aim is to reduce the risk of contracting Covid-19 or other diseases that are dangerous to immune-compromised or chronically sick and vulnerable individuals.
Furthermore, when looking at 7,6 billion people, the private use of such masks seems sensible especially in situations and circumstances where one can’t avoid crowds and/or has problems applying to the rules of social distancing. Also for private users, these masks are tools to reduce the risk of getting infected while as well as reducing the risk to infect others.
GOAL OF BANGALORE MASK PROJECT
SO WHAT’S THE PLAN?
We, the founders of the #BangaloreMASKproject, believe that high-quality information in different formats, translated in as many languages as possible, accessible to everyone and shared through all thinkable medial channels is the way to go.
We are driven by the certainty that nobody will be safe until everyone is safe and by the perspective that in the foreseeable future, millions of people will be affected by Covid-19 and that not everyone can be taken care of as this is a global disaster of unprecedented dimensions. So we will keep trying to raise awareness – that there are options to help oneself and to help loved ones and to help out those in our community in the country you live in who do not have access to masks and protection.
TEAM
WHO ARE THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE #BANGALOREMASKPROJECT?
We are people from all walks of life, various backgrounds and nationalities, spread all over the world but many of us like the name indicates are based in Bangalore, India.
We have consulted with experts in various fields to compile the information including sewing experts, medical professionals, and hygiene standard experts. We are also grateful to have received input from Indian NGOs, manufacturers, local business leaders who care about their communities, graphic designers, and individual volunteers who helped us with translations.
INSTRUCTION MATERIAL
WHERE CAN I DOWNLOAD THE INSTRUCTION INFOGRAPHICS?
Our infographics are available in 13 languages and can be downloaded for free from:
1.) Our homepage:
https://www.thevinebangalore.com/the-mask-project/
2.) From the file section in our Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/bangaloremaskproject/
WHERE CAN I DOWNLOAD THE VIDEO TUTORIALS?
Our video tutorials can be downloaded for free from:
1.) Our homepage:
https://www.thevinebangalore.com/the-mask-project/
2.) From the file section in our Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/bangaloremaskproject/
HELP! I NEED THE INSTRUCTIONS IN A LANGUAGE THAT IS NOT LISTED!
Sure, please reach out via email to [email protected] and we will try to help as quickly as we can.
7. HELP! I’M HAVING ISSUES DOWNLOADING THE MATERIAL!
Don’t panic, we’ve got you! Please write us an email at [email protected] and we will sort that out as fast as possible.
PRICING
CAN I USE THIS MATERIAL FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES?
Well, since we allow this information to be downloaded for free by everyone, we are neither holding any rights nor will take any responsibilities for legal risks, financial losses or consequences that could arise when starting the commercial production of those models. We can’t and won’t stop you. We do hope that once you have sorted out all legal requirements and applied for all necessary permissions and start to produce, that you will consider donating some quantities to the people and organizations that need them the most, helping humanity thrive. Thanks!
HOW MUCH CAN I PURCHASE THE MASKS FOR?
These masks are produced by volunteers and donated so they cannot be purchased anywhere. If you are in need please reach out to [email protected] or join our Facebook Group and we will try to connect you with people that can help you out.
WHERE CAN I BUY OR ORDER THE MASKS?
These masks are produced by volunteers and donated so they cannot be purchased anywhere. If you are in need please reach out to [email protected] or join our Facebook Group and we will try to connect you with people that can help you out.
PRODUCTION
I AM LOOKING TO BE CONNECTED WITH INDIVIDUALS WORKING ON THIS IN MY NEIGHBORHOOD TO JOIN THEM IN PRODUCING MASKS.
1.) You can join our Facebook Group and post there directly looking for people in your neighborhood. https://www.facebook.com/groups/bangaloremaskproject/
2.) Or you send us an email to [email protected] and we will try to connect you with other volunteers in your neighborhood
I AM INTERESTED IN LARGE SCALE/MASS PRODUCTION TO PRODUCE LARGER QUANTITIES.
Please reach out to us at [email protected] so we can connect you with the people already running similar projects.
NEED MASKS? NEED SUPPLIES?
I URGENTLY NEED MASKS AND/OR SHIELDS!
Please connect with us at [email protected] so we can connect you to the right people or organizations.
I NEED MATERIALS/SUPPLIES TO MAKE THE MASKS!
For small-scale operations – we will try to connect you to people within our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bangaloremaskproject/
For large-scale operations please connect with us directly via email [email protected] so we can try to connect you with people already running similar projects.
DONATIONS
I WOULD LIKE TO DONATE MATERIALS/SUPPLIES
For small-scale operations – we will try to connect you to people within our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bangaloremaskproject/
For large-scale operations please connect with us directly via email [email protected] so we can try to connect you with people already running similar projects.
I WOULD LIKE TO HELP WITH RAISING FUNDS OR LIKE TO DONATE MONEY
We are operating solemnly on a volunteering basis and don’t handle transactions of any kind nor accept any financial donations. We would, however, be able to connect you with individual sewers, projects or organizations looking for funds. Email us here [email protected].
Please understand that raising funds isn’t our aim at the #BangaloreMASKproject.
MASK MATERIALS
WHAT FABRICS + MATERIALS CAN I USE?
3-Layer Protective Mask (multi-use)
Only use 100%, non-stretch, clean cotton. The lining can be muslin, double gauze, Molton twill, diaper cloth or even just a third layer of cotton if that’s all you have. You could also create ear loops instead of the cotton bands but always keep in mind that those masks are multi-use and all the materials must be able to endure high temperatures (washing and ironing). New, thin, not rusty, non-coated metal wire such as those used for jewelry making and florists is preferable for the wiring. Pipe cleaners are another option.
Easy No-Sew Protective Mask (single-use)
It is preferable to use clean 100%, non-stretch cotton fabric. You can attach strings or yarn instead of rubber bands, hairbands or whatever material you have at hand.
Anti-Virus Face Shield (multi-use)
Any large transparent clean PET soft bottle will do. Earloops can be made from different materials other than elastic bands (string, yarn, rubber bands, hair ties, cloth) so long as they are disinfectable.
CAN I USE BEDSHEETS, TOWELS, OR TABLECLOTHS FOR THE MASKS?
Yes, you can use almost all 100%, non-stretch, cotton fabric. The most important is that it must be clean and that you follow the guidelines regarding best practices for hygienic production, safe personal use and depending on the model, the process of how to disinfect, store and re-use.
DO I HAVE TO USE MUSLIN/DOUBLE GAUZE AS LINING (INLAY)?
No, not necessarily. If you don’t have this kind of fabric at hand you can use 3 layers of 100%, non-stretch, clean cotton. Some virologists are indicating a significantly higher level of protection when choosing a cotton fabric that is soft, light and fluffy woven as inlay – like muslin or for example double gauze.
DO I HAVE TO USE METAL WIRE IN THE 3-LAYER PROTECTIVE MASK?
No, but experts are indicating that if the mask can be pinched around the nose and therefore be better fitted to the face this will equal a higher level of protection.
WHAT TYPE OF METAL WIRE CAN I USE?
Any type of light, non-coated metal wires will do. The wires must be new, clean and cannot be rusty. The wire which is widely used by florists and jewelry makers is great. Pipe cleaners from craft stores will also do the trick.
HYGIENE + SAFETY OF MASK MAKING
WHAT ARE THE BEST HYGIENE PRACTICES TO FOLLOW WHILE MAKING THE MASKS?
All the materials that you use must be cleaned, if possible both before and after making them (if this is not possible, ensure they are cleaned after!). If you are using old clothes or other used fabrics, wash them at 60 degrees or more. If you don’t have a washing machine you can also use a large pot with clean boiling water and boil the fabrics in there for 1 minute. You should also iron both sides of the fabric. Keep your workspace clean and wash your hands before, during and after with soap and clean water. If possible wear gloves and face masks while sewing, stapling or cutting.
If only some or none of the above measurements are possible:
3-Layer Protective Mask (multi-use)
Follow our guidelines to wash and disinfect those masks before and after use (see next question).
Anti-Virus Face Shield (multi-use)
Please disinfect before and after use (see next question).
Easy No-Sew Protective Mask (single-use)
Do not produce this type of mask if you are not able to produce under the mentioned above basic hygienic conditions since these masks cannot be washed or ironed and would be a potential health threat to immune-compromised or chronically sick. This mask should be produced in emergency situations for a one time use (i.e. you need to run to the store but do not have a mask!)
CLEANING + DISINFECTING MASKS
WHAT ARE THE BEST PRACTICES TO CLEAN AND DISINFECT THE MASKS (BEFORE + AFTER USE)?
3-Layer Protective Mask (multi-use)
Wash the masks at a minimum of 60 degrees in your washing machine. When washing multiple masks put 15-20 in one small cotton pillowcase to avoid them get all tangled up. If you don’t have a washing machine you can also use a large pot with clean boiling drinking water and boil the masks for 1 minute. The dry masks must be ironed at hot temperatures (no steam) on both sides. Then store them in sealable ziplock bags – don’t forget to wash your hands with water and soap and or wear single-use gloves. Repeat this cycle after using the mask.
Easy No-Sew Protective Mask (single-use)
NEVER REUSE THIS DISPOSABLE SINGLE USE MASK!
Anti-Virus Face Shield (multi-use)
This face shield can be cleaned using a common sanitizer or spray or rubbing with alcohol. Please keep in mind that the PVC can lose transparency when attacked with harsh chemicals or become deformed when coming in contact with hot water.
STORING + TRANSPORTING MASKS
WHAT ARE THE BEST PRACTICES TO STORE AND TRANSPORT THE MASKS?
Masks can be stored and transported in sealable zip lock bags for up to 3 days (if unopened). Optionally, they can be vacuumed in a clean plastic wrap. In general, it might be advisable to clean them following the previous question’s standards and iron them again before using them. It is recommended to keep the mask in a plastic bag in your purse if you take it off while out.
WEARING MASKS
WHAT ARE THE BEST PRACTICES TO WEAR AND USE THE MASKS IN A SAFE WAY?
Unfold the mask with clean hands making sure the wired top part is pinched around the nose and therefore fitted nicely to the face-covering your nose, mouth, and chin and avoiding gaps on any side of the masks.
Avoid touching the mask while wearing it. Remove it by grabbing the strips or ear loops while avoiding touching the outer surface of the mask. Don’t hang the mask around your neck. Don’t push the mask under your nose or leave it half open on your face. Dispose into a closed bin (please cut up the mask before discarding to avoid improper re-usage or sale of your old mask) or add to a separate laundry sack if the mask is reusable. Wash your hands with soap and water.
HOW LONG CAN I WEAR THESE MASKS?
The lifetime of a single-use and multi-use mask is 5 hours or until the mask becomes damp. Wet masks need to be cleaned/discarded immediately. Some people add handkerchiefs, a piece of kitchen paper roll, a piece of coffee filter between the 3-Layer multi-use mask and face. When exchanging those extra layers regularly and keeping hygienic protocol while exchanging those extra layers, the time of usage goes up to 24 hours ( only for 3-Layer cotton masks!).
HOW DO I CLEAN AND DISINFECT THE MASKS AFTER WEARING THEM?
Please follow the guidelines from CLEANING + DISINFECTING MASK Section
MASK SIZING
The 3-Layer Protective Masks (multi-use) are one size and not suitable for small children.
The Easy No-Sew Mask (single-use) can be found in toddler, child, adult, adult large sizes (please check the respective infographic for details). Masks of any kind are not recommended for babies under one year old.
The Anti-Virus Shields can be various sizes when using different bottle sizes (we used a 2-liter bottle for an average adult, smaller bottles for smaller faces or children )