How to Safely Put On and Remove a Face Covering or Mask

Putting on a face covering or mask

Step 1

A clean reusable face covering

Make sure face covering is clean (laundered since last use). If using a disposable mask, make sure it is new and has not been worn before.

Step 2

Hands being washed with soap for 20 seconds

Clean hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer before touching the face covering.

Step 3

A face covering with a tear, marked with an X

Check face covering to make sure there are no obvious tears or holes.

Step 4

A face covering placed over the nose, mouth and chin

Place over your face, ensuring it covers the nose, mouth and chin. Avoid touching it again until it is removed.

Step 5

Hands being washed with soap for 20 seconds

Clean hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer.

Removing a face covering or mask

After using a face covering or mask, assume that it is contaminated. Avoid touching it or disposing of it in a way that could spread germs to you or someone else.

Step 1

Hands being washed with soap for 20 seconds

Clean hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer.

Step 2

Touching the front of a face covering, marked with an X

Avoid touching the front of the face covering. Only touch the loops or ties to remove it.

Step 3

Loops being unhooked in two numbered steps

Hold both loops, unhook and lift away from face. If face covering has ties, untie lower bow first, followed by upper bow.

Step 4

A face covering placed into a washing machine

Hold face covering by loops/ties and place directly into washing machine. Single-use masks should be disposed of in a lined garbage container with lid.

Step 5

Hands being washed with soap for 20 seconds

Wash hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer before touching anything else.

Note

A face covering left on the ground, marked with an X

Do not leave discarded masks in shopping carts, on the ground, etc.