Wearing Surgical Masks Correctly: 7 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Wearing Surgical Masks Correctly: 7 Common Mistakes

A surgical mask only works when 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 to avoid.

Mistake 1: Wearing the mask below the nose

The most common mistake: the mask covers the mouth but leaves the nose exposed. This almost completely eliminates the protective effect. Both nose and mouth must always be fully covered.

Mistake 2: Not adjusting the nose clip

Every surgical mask has a mouldable nose clip that should be adjusted individually. If not shaped, side gaps form. Press the clip firmly against the nose shape with both hands.

Mistake 3: Touching the mask with dirty hands

When putting on and removing the mask, only touch the ear loops – never the inside of the mask. Always wash hands before and after changing masks.

Mistake 4: Wearing the mask too long

Surgical masks are single-use products and should be changed when visibly soiled, damp, or after at most 4 hours of wear. A wet 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 immediately – not stuffed into a pocket. Germs from the outside can transfer to other objects.

Mistake 6: Pulling the mask over the chin or neck

The outside of the mask is contaminated and should never come into contact with skin or hair. Do not reuse a mask that has been pulled down.

Mistake 7: Wrong mask for the application

In medical settings, at least a Type IIR (splash-resistant) should be worn. For maximum self-protection, an FFP2 mask is required.

How to Put On a Surgical Mask Correctly – Step by Step

  1. Wash or disinfect hands thoroughly
  2. Remove mask from packaging, touching only the ear loops
  3. Coloured side facing out – white inner side towards the face
  4. Loop ear loops over the ears
  5. Pull mask over nose, mouth and chin
  6. Press nose clip firmly against nose with both hands
  7. Check fit: no side gaps, nose fully covered

Conclusion

Our Type IIR medical surgical masks from Kela Schutzartikel are CE certified, latex-free and Made in Germany – for maximum protection and highest wearing comfort.

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