Ever since the novel coronavirus came into existence, face masks became an integral part of our lives. However, not everyone adhered to protocol, and there were even anti-masks protests around the world.

However, for those who are wearing face masks, it is an important thing to understand what kind of face mask is useful. It is also very important to know how long you can wear one face mask.

According to studies, wearing 95, KN95 or KF94 masks (the thicker, origami-style ones) offers more protection. A study revealed that it would take 2.5 hours for a person with Covid-19 who wasn’t wearing a mask to pass it on to someone wearing an N95 mask, compared with just 30 minutes for someone wearing a surgical mask.

Unlike cloth masks, N95 masks aren’t machine-washable, and unlike the three-layer surgical masks, they’re not necessarily single-use either.

So, how long can you keep wearing the same higher quality mask? Are you supposed to throw it away in a couple of days or keep using it until it is absolutely worn out?

According to scientists, it depends. Health experts say that there are several variables that can affect how long an N95 mask is effective.

“It all depends on the duration, what type of setting you’re in and what you’re doing in that setting,” University of California San Francisco Health Safety Officer Matt Carlson told the San Francisco Chronicle.

“If the respirator is not compromised, you can safely reuse it.”

Masks should have a tight grip with a seal around your face to prevent particles from getting in. The longer you use the mask, the looser it gets. Touching, adjusting and removing the mask will cause it to loosen over time.