In light of the recent spread of coronavirus, health officials across the country have begun advising people to get N95 masks to protect themselves and their loved ones from the virus which causes severe pneumonia and in some cases, death. Unfortunately, many people are now wondering how they should go about storing these N95 masks so that they will stay sanitary and be able to do their job when it’s time to use them in an emergency. The following steps will tell you exactly how to store your N95 masks so that they are always ready to be put on when you or a loved one needs them.
How Long Can You Store Your Mask?
Store your mask in a cool, dry place, where it’s out of direct sunlight. However, most masks last up to 3 years as long as they haven’t been punctured or damaged and are sealed properly. If you store your mask for longer than that, make sure you replace it with a new one before using it again. If you have an expired mask, toss it out immediately and get a new one.
How Should You Store Your Mask?
We don’t recommend storing your respirator at very hot or very cold temperatures as that may compromise its integrity over time. Neglecting to store your masks properly could result in mold, damage, or loss. Improper storage is a danger to your family’s health and safety.
The following are tips for storing your N95 masks correctly. 1. Always keep your masks in their original packaging until you need them. 2. Store your masks in a cool, dry place (preferably under 65 degrees Fahrenheit). 3. Don’t expose your mask to extreme temperatures (either hot or cold). 4. Keep them away from moisture as much as possible.
Is It Safe to Keep Masks in the Freezer?
As with most types of respirators, you should keep your masks in a safe place where they won’t get damaged. While keeping them in a freezer isn’t ideal for most respirators, some mask types are fine to store there (such as N95s). Freezing these masks won’t damage them or make them any less effective. However, if you freeze and thaw your masks frequently, it could cause issues down the line. So just remember: don’t leave them in there for long periods of time! And don’t use frozen respirators that have been stored at low temperatures—they can crack and break when exposed to room temperature too quickly.
In order to ensure your masks don’t go bad and remain effective for use, there are a few things you need to do. When storing N95 masks, it is very important to ensure they are completely dry before placing them back in their container. If a mask is left wet or damp at all, it can create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria which will make you more susceptible to infections when trying to use them.