How to Wash Face Masks (Cloth)

How Often Should You Wash Cloth Face Masks?

Cloth face masks should be washed after every single use. They collect exhaled moisture, bacteria, and skin oils with each wear — and a damp mask left unwashed becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and mold within hours. Keeping several masks in rotation makes daily washing practical.

Method 1: Machine Washing (Easiest)

1. Place masks in a mesh laundry bag to prevent straps from tangling and masks from getting lost in the machine
2. Wash on a warm or hot cycle — heat kills bacteria and viruses more effectively than cold
3. Use regular detergent
4. For extra sanitization, add Lysol Laundry Sanitizer to the rinse cycle — it kills 99.9% of bacteria even in cold water

Method 2: Hand Washing

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the mask
2. Lather the mask with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds
3. Rinse thoroughly under running water
4. Gently squeeze out excess water — do not wring

How to Dry Cloth Face Masks

• Dryer: Tumble dry on high heat — heat helps kill any remaining pathogens
• Air dry: Hang in direct sunlight if possible — UV light has natural disinfecting properties
• Make sure the mask is completely dry before wearing or storing — a damp mask is less effective as a barrier and harbors bacteria

How to Store Clean Masks

• Store in a clean, breathable bag or a dedicated clean container
• Never store a used mask with clean masks
• Keep a small bag for dirty masks and a separate one for clean masks when on the go

Quick Tips for Cloth Mask Hygiene

• Wash after every single wear — no exceptions
• Keep at least 5–7 masks in rotation so you always have a clean one ready
• Replace masks when the fabric thins, elastic loses stretch, or fit becomes loose
• Never touch the front of a used mask — handle by the ear loops only

Recommended Products

• Mesh Laundry Bags — keep masks together and prevent straps from tangling in the machine
• Lysol Laundry Sanitizer — kills 99.9% of bacteria in every wash cycle