Wearing Surgical Masks Correctly: 7 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Share
Wearing Surgical Masks Correctly: 7 Common Mistakes
Last updated: August 3, 2026
A surgical mask only works if worn correctly. In practice, however, mistakes are common that significantly reduce protection. In this article, we show you how to put on your medical mask correctly – and which mistakes you should definitely avoid.
Mistake 1: Wearing the Mask Below the Nose
Probably the most common mistake: the mask covers the mouth but leaves the nose exposed. This practically eliminates the protective effect, as breathing air flows unimpeded past the mask. Nose and mouth must always be fully covered.
Mistake 2: Not Adjusting the Nose Clip
Every surgical mask has a shapeable nose clip that should be individually adjusted. If it's not shaped, gaps appear at the sides – air flows in and out unfiltered. Press the clip firmly against the shape of your nose with both hands.
Mistake 3: Touching the Mask with Dirty Hands
When putting on or removing the mask, only touch the ear loops, not the inside of the mask. Washing hands before and after changing masks is essential.
Mistake 4: Wearing the Mask Too Long
Surgical masks are single-use products and should be changed when visibly soiled, damp, or after a maximum of 4 hours of wear. A damp mask offers significantly less protection.
Mistake 5: Storing the Mask in a Pocket
A removed mask belongs in a clean bag or should be disposed of directly – not stuffed into a pocket. Germs from the outside can otherwise transfer to other objects.
Mistake 6: Pulling the Mask Down Over the Chin or Neck
Many people briefly pull the mask down when speaking or taking a break – and then put it back on. The outside of the mask is contaminated with germs and should never come into contact with skin or hair.
Mistake 7: Wrong Mask for the Situation
Not every mask is suitable for every purpose. In medical facilities, at least a Type IIR (splash-resistant) mask should be worn. For maximum self-protection, an FFP2 mask is required.
Surgical Mask, FFP2 Mask, or Cloth Mask - What Fits When?
The three mask types differ significantly in protective effect, standard, and area of use:
| Criterion | Surgical Mask (Type IIR) | FFP2 Mask | Cloth Mask |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protection of others (droplets) | Very good | Very good | Limited |
| Self-protection (aerosols) | Low | Very good | Very low |
| Standard | DIN EN 14683 Type IIR | EN 149:2001 + A1:2009 | No uniform standard |
| CE marking | Yes (medical device) | Yes (PPE) | Usually none |
| Typical wearing time | Up to 4 hours | Limited per workday | Variable, washable |
| Area of use | Medicine, care, everyday life | Occupational safety, medical self-protection | Everyday life, low risk |
For pure protection of others in everyday life, a surgical mask is sufficient. Anyone wanting to protect themselves from aerosols - for example in a work context or with increased risk - should choose an FFP2 mask.
How to Put On a Surgical Mask Correctly – Step by Step
- Wash or disinfect your hands thoroughly
- Take the mask out of the packaging, touching only the ear loops
- Colored side facing out – white inner side against your face
- Hang the ear loops over your ears
- Pull the mask over your nose, mouth and chin
- Press the nose clip firmly against your nose with both hands
- Check the fit: no side gaps, nose fully covered
When Does the Mask Need to Be Changed?
- When visibly soiled or damaged
- When the mask is damp or soaked with sweat
- After a maximum of 4 hours of continuous use
- After contact with potentially infected persons
Frequently Asked Questions About Wearing Surgical Masks
What is the most common mistake when wearing a surgical mask?
The most common mistake is wearing the mask below the nose. This lets breathing air flow unimpeded past the mask, practically eliminating the protective effect. Nose and mouth must always be fully covered.
How often do I need to change a surgical mask?
Surgical masks should be changed when visibly soiled, damp, or after a maximum of 4 hours of wear, as well as after contact with potentially infected persons. They are single-use products.
Can I briefly pull the mask down and put it back on?
This is not recommended. The outside of the mask is contaminated with germs and should never come into contact with skin or hair. Pulling it down over the chin or neck increases the risk of contamination.
How do I put on a surgical mask correctly?
Wash your hands, only touch the mask by the ear loops, pull the colored side out over your nose, mouth and chin, hook the ear loops in place, and press the nose clip firmly against your nose. Finally, check that there are no side gaps and the nose is fully covered.
Conclusion
A surgical mask only provides full protection when used correctly. The most common mistakes – leaving the nose exposed, not adjusting the nose clip, or wearing the mask too long – are easy to avoid. With a high-quality Type IIR mask and correct use, you're optimally protected.
Our medical Type IIR surgical masks from Kela Schutzartikel are CE-certified, latex-free and Made in Germany – for maximum protection and top wearing comfort.
