Re-usable Cloth Facemasks in the Covid-19 Era

Following the World Health Organization designating the ‘corona virus disease 2019’ (COVID-19) a global pandemic, there has been a global demand for production of PPEs (Personal Protection Equipment) to help fight the scourge. As there has been growing numbers of people getting infected, respective global governments and WHO have suggested necessary needs and measures to reduce escalation. In Kenya, the government has taken steps such as insisting on social distancing, encouraged use of face masks and controlled movement among other measures to slow the rate of transmission. These actions prevent a strain on the healthcare system which already has shortages of key equipment.

Using textile technology and design, this study seeks to implement knowledge of the field to focus on protective measures that will immediately address prevention of the spread. The study focused on the development and testing of face masks for the public to help in prevention of COVID -19 spread. These masks were made from natural cotton fibre that is affordable, available and reusable. The mask was made using three layers of 7’’ by 7’’ pieces of fabric. The two outer layers were made of poly-cotton, while the middle layer was polypropylene fabric, used as a filter. Users of this product breathe comfortably through a double-layer of brand new poly cotton. Putting masks on the sick reduces their ability to spread the virus. It is generally believed that the primary purpose of cloth masks is to prevent spread of infections from the wearer.