CDC | How to Select, Wear, and Clean Your Mask
Click here for the CDC Webpage.
CDC recommends that you wear masks in public settings around people who don’t live in your household and when you can’t stay 6 feet away from others. Masks help stop the spread of COVID-19 to others.
- Wear masks with two or more layers to stop the spread of COVID-19
- Wear the mask over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin
- Masks should be worn by people two years and older
- Masks should NOT be worn by children younger than two, people who have trouble breathing, or people who cannot remove the mask without assistance
- Do NOT wear masks intended for healthcare workers, for example, N95 respirators
How to Select
When selecting a mask, there are many choices. Here are some do’s and don’ts.


When selecting a mask, there are many choices. Here are some dos and don’ts. |
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![]() How to Wear |
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Do wear a mask that:
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How to Clean |
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Masks should be washed regularly. Always remove masks correctly and wash your hands after handling or touching a used mask.
For more information on this topic, including about gaiters, face shields, masks and children, wearing masks with glasses, mask wearing mistakes, and how to take off a mask, click the Learn More button below. |
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Contact Us |
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Email: EPIC@cdc.gov Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Questions? |
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