What kind of mask should I be wearing?

Don’t worry. You don’t have to sacrifice comfort in order to be safe.

Many people had complained early-on that medical grade masks like the N95 were uncomfortable. Experts agree, however, that even a simple cloth covering would go a long way.

The most important thing to remember is that the covering must go over the nose and mouth.

“I see many people with masks hanging below their chin,” said Parikh. “That doesn’t do anything.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source even states that surgical masks and N95 respirators should ideally be reserved for healthcare workers. Cloth coverings are just fine, so long as you wash your hands before putting them on and cover your nose and mouth.

You should look for thick woven cloth that doesn’t let in sunligh.