SP Masks FAQ

Will this stop COVID-19 and other influenza viruses?

Unfortunately, masks will not be the one and only reason to slow the spread the virus.
As we all know, we need to wash our hands regularly, not touch our face and apply social distancing.
Masks can be another measure used to protect yourself and others, especially if you do not know you have been infected.

Why use a mask? Will it protect me?

Many of the governing bodies have advised communities not to use masks if you are not sick.
However, what about the asymptomatic people – who don’t know they are infected?
We need to change the perception of masks and make a culture for it to be okay to wear masks during these challenging and vulnerable times of a pandemic.
What’s the point of wearing a mask if it isn’t N95? Although our fabric masks and other homemade DIY fabric masks are not filtered,
like the N95 respirator or surgical masks, it will protect your nose and mouth from any potential droplets from transmitting any viruses.

Where is it made?

The masks are manufactured in South Korea – a country that practices the usage of masks not only for infection control,
but for pollen allergies (hay fever) and micro dust particles from pollution on a regular basis.

How many can I buy?

Are there any limitations on the quantity purchased?
There are no limitations on how any an individual purchases.
You can buy 1 to try – but we recommend to buy at least 2, so you can wash one and use the other and
rotate them so you don’t have to be anxious about re-using a worn cloth mask.

How do I wash the mask?

Hand wash in household detergent in warm water – make sure it is fully dry before using.
Mask can also be washed in washing machine – ensure it is put in wash bag to prevent stretching.

What is the difference between surgical masks, N95 respirators and fabric masks?

There are so many masks it may be confusing on which one to buy. Below are some information that will help you with your purchase:Surgical masks are a disposable and generally loose-fitting to block large particles of sprays, splashes or droplets that may or may not contain bacteria and viruses. Generally used by health care workers.

N95 respirators are close fitting to the face and has the ability to block 95% of very small particles (0.3 micron). Usually used by health care workers and construction workers.

Fabric masks are for daily use – whether it is to block out any potential droplets, prevent allergies or to keep your face warm.

Fabric masks are not medically approved, but they can be used to protect yourself and household family members.

Fabric masks are also a great idea to keep the supply of surgical masks and N95 respirators for the industries that need it most.

Some useful resources:

Efficiency of fabric mask vs surgical mask?

There have been studies conducted with the filtration efficiency of surgical masks and cloth masks in the past.
The surgical masks filters approximately 96% and a cotton T-shirt filtrates approximately 69% for the Bacillus Atrophaeus virus –
this proves that fabric masks are not as efficient as surgical or N95 respirators, but will be effective to use for non-health care workers.

What are the care instructions?

Wash your hands before and after putting on or removing the mask. It is highly recommended to only hold the mask by the ear loops to prevent any contamination from the hands.
Make sure you check the mask is damaged or soiled before putting on – do not use damaged or soiled masks.
At the end of the day wash the mask in warm water with antiseptic hand wash and air dry – make sure the mask is completely dry before re-using.

cAN I share a mask with my family member?

No, it is highly recommended not to share your mask with anyone. This is to prevent any potential contamination from your breathe, cough or sneeze.
If there is more than one family member using masks, it is suggested to differentiate the masks by colour or name tag.

The SP Mask is lined with copper thread - what are the benefits of copper?

Copper has been used since ancient times for its sterilising properties.
It is said that the properties of copper breaks down the bacterial and respiration to prevent and reduce the risk of infection or spreading.

Why do SP Reusable Face Masks only have 2 layers and not the recommended 3 layers?

It is extremely difficult to breathe when there is a thick layer covering your mouth and nose. This design is intentional so that the face masks can be as comfortable as possible without affecting one’s breathing ability behind the face mask. We have carefully engineered our face masks so that even though they are only 2 layers, they are very effective.

What is the difference between our 3 face masks?

All of our face masks offers 2 layers of protection, helping with the prevention of transmission via respiratory droplets. V1 has a soft hypo allergenic non-toxic cotton outer layer with the inner layer made of cooling polyester textiles (copper integrated yarn). V2 has a high quality non-toxic pro cool performance fabric on both layers with the inner layer integrated with copper yarn technology. V3 has a high quality non-toxic pro cool performance fabric on both layers with the inner layer infused with nano silver technology.

How long will it take to dry after washing?

V1 will generally dry overnight (due to the cotton component) and V2 and V3 are super quick dry – generally within a few hours.

Are Reusable or disposable mask better?

Reusable masks are economic as well as eco-friendly. They can be easily washed and quickly dry ready for your next use. Disposable masks on the other hand deteriorate and cannot be used for longer than a day. If disposable masks are not disposed of properly, they will end up in landfill or the ocean, endangering animals. Although it may appear cheaper to buy disposable masks the cost will add up quickly.

Why does V1 and V2 masks have stripes? But V3 doesn’t?

V1 and V2 masks have copper yarn integrated in the inside layer of the mask. The V3 mask is made of nano silver technology.

Why Copper and Silver?

Both nano silver technology and copper integrated yarn are known to have antimicrobial properties to prevent infections from germs or bacteria. Copper has been used since ancient times for its sterilising properties. It is said that the properties of copper breaks down the bacterial and respiration to prevent and reduce the risk of infection or spreading.

When will my order be shipped?

V1 and V3 are fully stocked – ready to ship within the next business day. V2 will be available from 21 August 2020. Please be mindful that Australia Post currently have delays on parcel deliveries. If you require your mask urgently, we recommended upgrading your shipment to Express Post. Regional areas may still take longer than, regardless of choice of shipment.

What is the return policy?

Unfortunately, there are currently no returns or exchanges on mask products. Please choose carefully or contact us if you are unsure. 

Have a business and want to buy masks for your staff?

Feel free to contact us via email at info@sparms.com.au in regards to staff procurement enquiries.

Have any other questions?

Feel free to contact us via email at info@sparms.com.au and we will get back to with within the next business day.

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