Masks - Instructions for use

Instructions for use

- This mask should be used as a complement to the recommended protection and hygiene measures and social distancing rules, which are essential for controlling COVID-19. For more information, see https://covid19.min-saude.pt.

- The reusable mask must be handled correctly. Below are the recommended instructions for the correct use of the mask, in accordance with DGS Guidance (nº 019/2020 of 03/04/2020):

a) Wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based solution before putting on the mask;

b) Place the mask with the inner side facing the face, and the outer side facing outwards;

c) Adjust the rigid end of the mask to the nose, covering the mouth, nose and chin with the mask, ensuring that there are no gaps between the face and the mask;

d) The mask should not be touched while it is in use; if this happens, hands should be sanitized immediately;

e) It is recommended that each mask be used for a maximum period of 4 hours per day, and the mask should be replaced with a new one at the end of that period or as soon as it becomes damp. The removed mask should be washed before being reused;

f) If you accidentally get your mask wet, you should replace it with a dry one as soon as possible. A wet mask should be washed before being reused;

g) The mask must be removed from the back (not touching the front of the mask), holding the ties or elastics;

h) The mask must be placed individually in a closed plastic bag, until it is placed in the washing machine;

i) Hands must be sanitized again after using and handling the mask.

- The mask must be washed before being used again, and must meet the requirements indicated below, after the number of washing cycles indicated in the information leaflet, i.e. a minimum of 5 cycles.

Conservation and cleaning

- The mask's protection is only guaranteed if you follow the cleaning and maintenance instructions below.

a) The mask must be stored in a dry environment and protected from potential contamination.

b) The mask must be washed before its first use.

c) In case of defect or damage, do not use the mask, replace it with another one.

d) At the end of the mask's life cycle, you should wash it under the conditions defined in the “preservation and cleaning” section and after washing it should be discarded as non-hazardous textile waste. If you choose not to wash the mask, you should dispose of it as biological waste.

Masks should be washed using a normal wash cycle at 60°C (domestic wash type 6N, according to NP EN ISO 6330:2012) with detergent, after each use. The user must ensure that the mask is completely dry before using it.

- The mask must be used completely dry after washing. A wet/damp mask reduces the protection of the mask.

- The mask can only be used by another person after washing.

- If you accidentally get your mask wet, you should replace it with a dry one as soon as possible. A wet mask should be washed before being reused.

- At the end of the recommended daily use or whenever you return home, the mask must be washed before being reused.