In this FAQ we answer questions about reusable fabric masks (nonmedical masks), including questions about mask fabrics, nonwoven polypropylene (NWPP), and mask designs. Some of the key questions answered in this FAQ are:
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Polypropylene (PP) is a lightweight synthetic material that is inexpensive, durable, breathable, water resistant, and recyclable (#5). PP is generally considered non-toxic, and safe for human contact. PP is used in a broad range of applications and is available in many forms. For example, PP is available as sheets of plastic (e.g., in yogurt containers), as woven fabrics (e.g., in clothing), and as nonwoven fabrics (e.g., in masks). The type of polypropylene used in masks in nonwoven polypropylene (NWPP).
Yes, polypropylene is nontoxic and is generally considered the safest plastic for human use. However, as with all textiles, there are different thicknesses and grades of NWPP and we cannot guarantee or vouch for the effectiveness of hand-made masks constructed from alternatively sourced materials. For more information to help guide your selection of polypropylene materials for community masks read more at: “The Big 4: Criteria for Community Mask Materials.”
Nonwoven polypropylene is used in masks because it is nontoxic, breathable, hydrophobic (water-resistant), lightweight, provides filtration, and is inexpensive.
Nonwoven polypropylene (NWPP) is the most common material used in medical grade masks. Instead of being woven like cloth, NWPP is created by spinning polypropylene fibers into threads and laying them down in a porous web that is breathable, provides filtration, and is naturally water resistant. There are two different types of NWPP that are used in masks: spunbond NWPP and meltblown NWPP.
Spunbond NWPP is washable and reusable where meltblown NWPP is considered a single-use (disposable) material. This is because of structural differences in the materials and how they are manufactured. For reusable fabric masks we recommend spunbond NWPP. For a deeper dive into the differences between spunbond and meltblown NWPP, see: “Mask Fabrics: Introduction to Fibers and Fabrics”
Spunbond NWPP is a sturdier material spun from larger diameter fibers that are thermally bonded together, which makes them more suitable for washing and reuse.
Meltblown NWPP is constructed from smaller, more delicate fibers, resulting in a material that is not generally considered washable or reusable. Although meltblown NWPP is considered safe in commercially manufactured masks and filter inserts, the size of meltblown fibers suggests extra caution may be warranted when cutting, handling, and/or sewing these materials due to potential inhalation risks.
Yes. Spunbond NWPP is considered a good choice for fabric masks because it is lightweight, reusable, breathable, water-resistant, and helps with filtration. However, meltblown NWPP is not considered washable and should not be sewn into reusable masks. For more on how to identify and select NWPP for masks see: “The Big Four: Criteria for Fabric Mask Materials for COVID“
Is all spunbond NWPP the same?No. As with all textiles, there are different thicknesses and grades of NWPP. This is one of the reasons that we can’t guarantee or vouch for the effectiveness of hand-made masks constructed from alternatively sourced materials. For reusable fabric masks we recommend using spunbond NWPP because it is washable and reusable.
How do I evaluate whether my nonwoven polypropylene will work for a mask?First, check to make sure that the fabric is made from 100% polypropylene (look for a label or tag). Next, look for the dimpled texture characteristic of spunbond nonwoven fabrics. To check that it is water resistant, flick water at the fabric, you want to see the water droplets bead up and roll off, while the inside stays dry. You also want to make sure that the material is breathable.
For more on how to identify and select NWPP for masks see: “ The Big Four: Criteria for Fabric Mask Materials for COVID
If NWPP interfacing is used, “sew in” interfacing is preferred to “fusible” (iron on) because: 1) the plastics beads used in iron-on interfacing may reduce the breathability of the material and 2) the types of adhesives and binders used in the “dots” in fusible interfacing may are not have been evaluated for potential inhalation risks associated with use in masks. For more information fusing interfacing check out the following links:
Click here for the Zhang & Kan (2018) review of “Fusible Interlinings Usage in Garment Manufacture.”
Polymers (Basel)
. 2018;10(11):1230
Click here for an example patent for fusing interfacing describing additives used to improve melting and adhesion properties
NWPP from landscape cloth and other geotextiles may pose inhalation risk. The fibers in these materials are prone to shedding and may pose risk of mechanical irritation when inhaled. In addition, preliminary data from particle testing suggests poor filtration performance, and they are not always water resistant.
What about surgical barrier materials?Nonwovens used as barriers in other medical applications (e.g., gowns and surgical drapes) may contain coatings or chemical treatments to enhance water-resistance and water-repellence. These treatments allow materials to gain regulatory approval at higher barrier standards but may not be suitable for use in masks. Check manufacturers’ information on materials used for possible hazards (Jones, 2005).
Spunbond nonwoven polypropylene can be upcycled from a number of different places, and can be found in bulk (i.e., by the yard) as sewing and/or crafting material. Specifics about where to buy NWPP vary regionally. Click here for our guide to “Finding and Selecting Polypropylene for Washable Masks“
Yes, fabric masks made from spunbond nonwoven polypropylene can be washed and reused (by the same individual). Disposable medical masks (and respirators) that contain meltblown NWPP are designed to be safely discarded after a single use, but due to ongoing shortages may be reused up to five times when safely stored (e.g., in a breathable paper bag) for at least 5 days between uses [CDC, 2020].
Yes, spunbond NWPP can be washed. Check for specific washing instructions from the mask and or material manufacturer. In general:
NWPP can be hand washed in warm or hot water, rinsed thoroughly, and hung to dry. Handwashing may extend the longevity of NWPP materials.
NWPP can be machine washed (warm) and tumble dried (low). We recommend putting NWPP masks in lingerie bags while washing to help them retain their shape.
Avoid using bleach or alcohol on these fabrics, because those chemicals break down the properties that make NWPP a good choice. Be sure to rinse masks thoroughly to eliminate soap residues, which may alter mask properties. Do not use fabric softener as it leaves residues that may alter the properties of the fabric.
For disinfection, spunbond NWPP masks may be boiled for 10 minutes and then hung to dry.
Yes. NWPP is recyclable (look for recycling #5). Check with local and regional recycling policies for details. In addition, the spunbond NWPP used in fabric masks can be washed and reused, which helps cut down on waste.
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Best practices currently suggest that fabric masks should be constructed of three or more layers of breathable fabrics [WHO, 2020]. For more information about the WHO Guidance on Fabric Masks (last updated December, 2020) check out: “WHO Fabric Mask Guidance – December Updates“
In general, the materials considered best for use in reusable fabric masks are water-resistant nonwoven fabrics (e.g., NWPP) and tightly woven cotton fabrics. For general use, MakerMask typically recommends either 3 layers of NWPP (NWPP-NWPP-NWPP), or a skin-contacting layer a hydrophilic fabric (e.g., cotton) with 2 outermost layers of NWPP (cotton-NWPP-NWPP). The NWPP layers are designed to act as barriers to droplets, which help contain the users droplets and help protect the user by preventing outside droplets from penetrating the mask [Songer, 2020]. For more information see,
We recommend using NWPP as the outermost mask layer due to its water resistance and hydrophobic properties. If a cotton layer is included, using it as the innermost mask layer (closest to the skin) to absorb the users droplets is preferred [WHO, 2020]. For more information, see:
NWPP has been known to melt with some irons and could damage both the mask and your iron. For this reason, we do not recommend ironing. If you do decide to iron your masks, use precautions for sensitive/delicate fabrics such as ironing on the lowest heat setting and placing a towel or other cloth between the mask and your iron.
Both woven and nonwoven fabrics can be characterized by ‘fabric weight’ in terms of grams per square meter (gsm) or ounces per square yard (oz/yd²). Although we use gsm throughout our discussions, depending on where you are, oz/yd² may be used. It is easy to convert from one to the other by googling it, or using an online conversion tool such as this “Textile and Fabric Weight Converter”.
We use gsm to describe fabrics because it can be used to describe both woven and nonwoven fabrics and it can be easily measured by scientists and home sewists alike. All you need is a kitchen scale and a ruler!
If the gsm (grams per square meter) of a given fabric is not provided by the manufacturer, it can be calculated at home using a digital kitchen scale, a ruler, and either a calculator following these three easy steps:
meters (or
convert to meters; e.g., 1 cm = 0.01 m, 1 inch = 0.025 m, or 1 yard = 0.9 m).
(or convert to grams; e.g., 1 ounce = 28 grams).
GSM = Fabric Weight / (Length x Width)
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Non-woven polypropylene fabric (also known as n-wpp or n-wc) is a type of fabric that’s made using a process called extrusion. This means that separate strands of polypropylene have been melted together to create a single fabric. This fabric is relatively inexpensive compared to most other types of clothing and is often used for stretch clothing to help it conform to the body. In this article, we’ll be explaining the different uses for it.
Non-woven polypropylene is a fabric that’s ideal for making t-shirts, underwear, socks and gloves. It’s also great for making all kinds of bags, including shopping bags and lunch bags.
Non-woven polypropylene is also used in the medical industry to make hospital gowns, doctor coats and scrubs. It’s also used in the food industry to make sandwich wraps, storage containers and food trays.
1. T-Shirts/Underwear: When it comes to clothing, non-woven polypropylene is one of the most popular fabrics out there. You can find it in just about every clothing store you go into. This includes brands like Fruit of the Loom and Hanes. The main reason why it is so popular for clothing is because of its ability to breathe well without retaining too much heat or moisture against the body. This makes it a great choice for underwear, socks and t-shirts.
2. Shopping Bags: Non-woven polypropylene is also used to make shopping bags and other types of bags. Most shopping bags are made out of it because it’s a durable fabric that doesn’t rip easily.
3. Lunch Bags: The same goes for lunch bags, which are usually made out of non-woven polypropylene as well. it is also a great fabric to use when you want to make reusable grocery bags or produce bags that can be washed in the dishwasher (more on this later).
4. Medical Gowns and Jackets: Non-woven polypropylene is one of the most popular fabrics used in the medical industry to make hospital gowns, doctor coats and other types of scrubs. This is because it’s very easy to clean, doesn’t retain moisture and is very breathable.
5. Garbage Bags: Non-woven polypropylene is an excellent fabric to make garbage bags out of because it’s strong and durable while still being very thin, lightweight and flexible. This makes it the perfect fabric to use when you want to make a trash bag that can be used over and over again before it needs to be replaced.
6. Pet Toys: Non-woven polypropylene is also used in many pet toys (especially dog toys) because of its durability and flexibility. Non-woven polypropylene is not only great for making squeaky dog toys but also chew toys, tug toys, plush dog toys and other types of pet accessories.
7. Beach Towels: When you’re going to the beach, pool or lake, non-woven polypropylene makes a great choice for your beach towel because it’s easy to carry and store, lightweight and durable. They’re also easy to clean and dry quickly.
8. Tarpaulins: If you want to make a tarpaulin out of non-woven polypropylene, you need to know that this fabric is very thin and flexible which makes it great for tarpaulins because you can use them to cover your boat or other types of vehicles while they’re being stored outdoors.
9. Carpeting: Non-woven polypropylene is a popular fabric that is used in both commercial and residential carpeting because of its durability, softness, flexibility and ability to absorb moisture well.
– Durability – Another great advantage of using non-woven polypropylene is that it’s durable. It’s able to withstand high temperatures and can even be worn outdoors without problems. It’s also able to resist stains, so you don’t have to worry about by accident ruining your clothes. – Sun Protection – Another great advantage of using non-woven polypropylene is that it can protect you from the sun. It’s light and porous, so it’s able to let the sun through while providing shade for you. – Easy Care – Core of what makes non-woven polypropylene great is the fact that it’s easy to care for. It doesn’t require ironing and washing it is also simple. – Quick Dry – Another great advantage of using non-woven polypropylene is that it’s quick dry. It’s able to dry quickly.
When looking for a supplier of non-woven polypropylene, there are several things you should keep in mind. – Quality – A great supplier of non-woven polypropylene will be able to provide you with high-quality non-woven polypropylene. – Variety – The best supplier will also be able to provide you with a wide variety of non-woven polypropylene. – Price – Another important thing you should keep in mind is the price. The best supplier will be able to provide you with non-woven polypropylene at an affordable price.
Another thing you should keep in mind when looking for a supplier of non-woven polypropylene is finding the right fabric for you. – Body Type – The first thing you should do is find out your body type. Then, you should look for the type of fabric that’s best for you. – Uses – After you know your body type, you should look for the type of non-woven polypropylene that’s best for your uses. – Durability – One great thing about it is that it’s durable. You should look for a supplier of non-woven polypropylene that has high-quality fabric. – Color-Fastness – Another great thing you should keep in mind when choosing it is the color-fastness of the fabric.
There are many benefits to using it. – Durability – Another great advantage of using non-woven polypropylene is that it’s durable. It’s able to withstand high temperatures and can even be worn outdoors without problems. It’s also able to resist stains, so you don’t have to worry about by accident ruining your clothes. – Sun Protection – Another advantage of using non-woven polypropylene is that it’s light and porous, so it’s able to let the sun through while providing shade for you. – Easy Care – Another great advantage of using non-woven polypropylene is that it’s easy to care for. It doesn’t require ironing and washing it is also simple. – Quick Dry – Another great advantage of using it is that it’s quick dry. It’s able to dry quickly. It’s usually lightweight and breathable, so you don’t have to worry about it getting too wet or too warm.
In the end, it really depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a lightweight, durable and quick-drying fabric, non-woven polypropylene is a great choice. This type of fabric is commonly used in sportswear, swimwear, underwear and medical garments. Other types of fabric, such as spandex, lycra and elastane are also great for providing support during sports or for wearing in water. If you’re looking for a fabric that’s more durable, then you should go with spandex, lycra or elastane.
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