How to Make a Mask at Home

The CDC rolled out new recommendations about masks to address COVID-19 because of recent research about the virus and how it's transmitted. Reminder: the virus can spread through respiratory droplets by coughing, sneezing, or even talking in close proximity to someone. Recently, the CDC director said 25% of infected people may not show symptoms but can still transmit the virus.

They're now asking Americans not to buy surgical masks or N95 respirators – which may be most effective against transmitting droplets – to reserve them for health care workers and first responders. Instead, they are recommending you learn how to make your own face mask using household materials. That's where we come in.