How to Wash & Care for your Reusable Mask

Wearing a mask is probably a part of your everyday routine by now.  We’ve entered a world where mask wearing is mandatory in most places.

So how do we care for this new wardrobe staple?  Like underwear, washing your mask brings about a host of interesting laundry practices, habits and adjustments. Washing our masks is a crucial part of the prevention process. The CDC advises that both hand and machine washing are effective ways of sanitizing your mask. 

When it comes to your Mayana Genevière masks we have a few best practices we recommend for either method based on the recommendations and our knowledge of the fabrics used in your MG Masks.

Purchasing multiple masks makes the process easier, just like underwear we have to wear them daily sometimes they need to be changed so make sure to have multiple masks available.  Think of purchasing a minimum of three: one to wear, one to wash, one to spare.

To make it simple, we’ve put together a seamless way to fold mask washing into your routine (pun intended!).

Tip: Make it easy - Have a basin or bowl close to your front door when you get home.  Remove your masks from your ear loops and fold them in half on the side that was touching your face and drop them in the basin until you’re ready to wash them. Then wash your hands immediately. 

When it’s time to wash it will be easier to have them all together. Always remove your masks by the ear loops, never touch the front of your mask to minimize the spread of infection.

FIRST: Inspect your mask for holes, rips or tears. Hold it up to the light, if you can see through it... it’s time to replace it.

Handwashing:

We recommend hand washing your Mayana Genevière masks because it’s efficient, easy and accessible.  

It also maintains the integrity of high-quality fabrics and is an effective option if you don't have a large load of items to wash since masks are on rotation and should be washed after every use.

Method:

1. Remove the filter.
2. Rinse your mask under hot water to soak the fabric entirely.
3. Poor a detergent directly on the front of the masks and scrub the two sides together for 20 seconds.
   A non-scented detergent is an ideal option since many people are sensitive to fragrance and masks are worn on our faces.  We love Scentless SOAK, (link to SOAK) a Canadian made product we recommend for washing our luxury undergarments. 
4. Remover make-up using detergent and a toothbrush to clean the edges of the mask in the inside lining.
5. Fill a basin or a sink with hot water (enough to submerge the masks) and a small capful of detergent simultaneously.
6. SOAK your masks for 15-20 minutes. 
7. Remove your masks and rinse thoroughly under warm/hot water.
8. Wash your hands after handling your masks.

Machine Washing:

• Put your masks into a laundry/ mesh bag.
• Wash your masks on the delicate/gentle cycle with like colours. 

Note: Hand washing is recommended for our Glamour Lace Masks

Drying:

• Lay your masks flat to dry on a towel or drying surface. If possible, place the mask in direct sunlight.
• Do NOT put your masks in the dryer.  This damages the elastics and the fabrics over time. 

Finally, because the masks are a tightly woven cotton, they may collect dust/lint particles in wear or washing.  If necessary, for that added touch, a lint roller works wonders!  If they wrinkle from washing you can pass the iron on the fabric portion of the mask ONLY as the direct heat will damage the elastics.

We’re excited to introduce SOAK into our product offering - and we make everything in house so you know we approve!  It’s a natural fit as many of you know who have purchased undergarments from us. We love it because it’s PH neutral, made with plant derived and renewable ingredients, biodegradable, phosphate and dye-free.  Basically it will be gentle on your hands while you hand wash, your skin when you wear any garments, and is great for the environment which aligns with our values as an ethically made brand with a focus on well-being!

Note: The information provided gives general best practice for washing your non-medical mask.  Consult the health experts such as Health Canada, the CDC and the World Health Organization for the most up to date information on how to use and wash face masks. Note that these instructions do not apply to N95 or other medical-grade masks.