Jordan Ellis
During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a shortage of personal protective equipment for healthcare workers. Volunteers stepped up to fill the gap by sewing cloth masks. Hospitals were accepting donations of homemade masks, but not for use by healthcare workers. The CDC does not approve any design for cloth masks, but some hospitals requested specific designs. For instance, Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Tennessee asked for two-sided cotton masks with or without elastic. Cloth masks can provide a false sense of security, and homemade masks are not considered PPE. However, in settings where face masks are unavailable, HCP might use homemade masks as a last resort.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To ease medical supply shortages |
| Materials | Cotton, elastic, ribbon, thread, bias tape, wire, fabric, sewing machine |
| Design | Two-sided, with or without elastic, soft fabric on one side |
| Hospitals Accepting Donations | Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Atlantic Health System, Allina Health, UnityPoint Health-Meriter |
| Benefits of Cloth Masks | Eco-friendly, budget-friendly, comfortable, breathable, reusable, customizable |
| Limitations of Cloth Masks | May provide a false sense of security, lower effectiveness compared to medical masks |
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What You'll Learn
Check if your local hospital is requesting donations
It is important to check if your local hospital is requesting donations of cloth masks before you start making them. While it is a kind gesture, hospitals may not always be in need of cloth masks, and some may prefer to use medical-grade masks.
You can start by checking your local hospital's website, as they may have posted information about donation requests. For example, Mayo Clinic Health System hospitals in northwest Wisconsin were accepting cloth mask donations and provided information on their website about donation locations and drop-off times.
If you cannot find the information you need online, consider contacting the hospital directly. You can call or email the hospital's general inquiry line or reach out to a specific department, such as the nursing department, to ask about their current needs. Some hospitals, like Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, have taken a proactive approach by preparing kits with fabric and elastic and encouraging volunteers to sew face masks. Others, like Providence St. Joseph's Health, initially accepted donations but later discontinued the effort when local manufacturing companies began producing masks on a larger scale.
In some cases, hospitals may not be the ones directly requesting donations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, local communities and organizations often took the initiative to collect and distribute handmade cloth masks to those in need. For instance, Contra Costa Health Services in California collected and distributed masks to home-based providers for disabled adults, childcare providers, and members of congregate living facilities. Similarly, midwifery practice groups in Ontario, Canada, encouraged direct communication with donors to arrange donations according to their specific needs.
By doing a little research and reaching out to your local hospital or community organizations, you can determine if your handmade cloth masks will be put to good use and make the most impact where they are needed.
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Choose your fabric
When making cloth masks for hospitals, choosing the right fabric is crucial. Here are some important factors to consider:
Type of Fabric
The CDC does not approve any specific design or fabric for cloth masks, but it's important to choose a fabric that is breathable and comfortable. Look for soft and lightweight fabrics that allow for easy breathing and extended wear without discomfort. Natural fabrics like cotton are generally good choices.
Fabric Weave
The tightness of the fabric weave is essential for the mask's effectiveness. A tightly woven fabric can enhance filtration against respiratory droplets, providing better protection. Look for a dense fabric weave that will create a barrier against particles while still allowing for breathability.
Number of Layers
Using multiple layers of fabric can increase the mask's filtration efficiency. The CDC recommends at least two layers of fabric for cloth masks. The outer layer can be made of a tightly woven fabric, while the inner layer can be a softer, more comfortable fabric. Adding additional layers can further improve filtration but make sure the mask remains breathable.
Fabric Treatment
Consider using a fabric with a hydrophobic treatment, especially for the outer layer. A hydrophobic fabric repels water and moisture, which can help reduce the risk of droplets penetrating the mask. This treatment can be found on some polyester fabrics and can enhance the mask's protective capabilities.
Durability and Washability
Choose a fabric that is durable and can withstand repeated washing. Cloth masks should be washed regularly to maintain hygiene. Ensure the fabric you select can be laundered without losing its shape or compromising its protective properties.
Remember to check with your local hospital or healthcare organization for any specific fabric requirements or guidelines they may have for donated cloth masks. Different facilities might have varying preferences or needs, so it's important to follow their instructions.
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Cut the fabric to size
To cut the fabric to size, you will need to first decide on the type of mask you want to make. For instance, the Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Tennessee asks for two-sided cotton masks with or without elastic, while the Atlantic Health System in New Jersey requests tightly woven cotton on one side and a softer fabric on the other.
If you are making a standard two-layer mask with elastic to fit around the ears, you will need two pieces of fabric cut to the same size. The size of the fabric will depend on the size of the face the mask is intended for. Generally, the fabric should be cut into a rectangle that measures 6 inches by 9 inches.
If you are making a mask with a pocket for a filter, you will need to cut two smaller rectangles for the pocket and one larger rectangle for the main part of the mask. The smaller rectangles should be cut to a size that is slightly larger than the filter itself, generally around 7.5 inches by 4.5 inches. The larger rectangle should be cut to the standard mask size of 6 inches by 9 inches.
It is important to cut the fabric to the correct size to ensure a proper fit and adequate protection.
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Stitch the fabric together
Stitching the fabric together is a crucial step in creating cloth masks for hospitals. Here is a detailed guide on how to approach this process:
Firstly, prepare the fabric pieces that will form the main body of the mask. For a standard two-layer mask, you will need two rectangular pieces of fabric. Place these pieces together with their right sides facing each other, ensuring they are properly aligned. This will form the front and back of the mask.
Now, it's time to start stitching. Begin by pinning the fabric pieces together, leaving a gap along the top edge. This gap will be used to create a pocket for a filter or shield, which is an optional feature. If you plan to include a pocket, stitch along the pinned edges, leaving the center open. Press the seams flat and topstitch along the seam line to ensure the fabric lays flat.
If you don't want to include a pocket, simply stitch along all three sides of the pinned fabric, leaving one side open. This open side will be used to turn the mask right side out and create the casing for the ear loops or ties.
Once the stitching is complete, trim the fabric if needed. If you've included a pocket, trim it to size—generally, anything larger than 7.5 inches will be too big. If you haven't included a pocket, trim the fabric to your desired mask size, ensuring it will comfortably cover the wearer's nose and mouth.
Now, it's time to create the casing for the ear loops or ties. Fold and press the edges of the fabric inward, creating a neat edge. Topstitch along the folded edges to secure the casing.
Finally, insert the elastic or ribbon for the ear loops. Using a safety pin, draw the elastic or ribbon through the casing, starting at one side of the mask. Tie a slip knot, trim the excess, and repeat for the opposite side. Your basic cloth mask is now complete!
Remember to review the specific requirements of the hospital you are donating to, as some may have unique specifications for the masks they accept.
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Add elastic or ribbon ties
When making cloth masks for hospitals, there are several methods to add elastic or ribbon ties to secure the mask to the wearer's face. Here is a step-by-step guide for adding these ties:
- Cut two pieces of elastic or ribbon to the appropriate length. The length may vary depending on whether the ties will be tied behind the head or around the ears. For behind-the-head ties, cut the elastic or ribbon longer, approximately 12-18 inches in length. For around-the-ear ties, cut them shorter, about 6-8 inches in length.
- Take one piece of elastic or ribbon and attach a safety pin to one end. This will help guide the tie through the casing.
- Insert the safety pin into one side of the mask casing, and gently push it through until it comes out on the other side. You may need to use a pencil or a thin object to help guide it through.
- Pull the elastic or ribbon through the casing until both ends are even.
- Tie the ends of the elastic or ribbon in a secure knot, such as a double knot or a surgeon's knot, to ensure it doesn't come undone.
- Trim any excess material from the knot, leaving about 1/2 inch of elastic or ribbon extending beyond the knot.
- Repeat the process on the opposite side of the mask to create the second tie.
It is important to note that the specific instructions for adding elastic or ribbon ties may vary depending on the mask pattern and design. Some masks may have different casing structures or closure methods, so adjust the steps accordingly. Additionally, some hospitals may have specific preferences or requirements for the type of ties they accept, so it is always a good idea to check with your local hospital before donating any cloth masks.
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Frequently asked questions
Hospitals face a shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) and there is a demand for cloth masks, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cloth masks can be used for patients and health-care workers with no chance of COVID-19 exposure, preserving more protective equipment for higher-risk situations.
Cloth masks are typically made from two layers of cotton, fastened with elastic or ribbon and tied around the head. Some hospitals request masks with specific materials, such as tightly woven cotton on one side and a softer fabric on the other.
Check with your local hospital to see if they are requesting cloth masks and if they have specific design requirements. Some hospitals may not be accepting homemade masks, so it is important to confirm their needs before donating.
There are various patterns and tutorials available online for sewing cloth masks. Some masks have a pocket for a filter, while others have elastic or ribbon casings to secure them to the wearer's face. It is important to follow instructions carefully to ensure the masks are effective and comfortable.
