Table 1

Ideal features of a well-designed cloth mask compared with disposable products

CategoriesRegular cloth maskSurgical maskN95 respiratorThe ideal cloth mask
Physical barrier✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓
Water resistance✗✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓
Filtration✗✓✓ ✓✓ ✓
Fit around the face✗✗✓✓
Breathability✓ ✓✓ ✓✓✓
Multiple layers✗ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓
High thread counts and fine weave✗ ✓N/AN/A✓ ✓
Retains properties after multiple washes with soap/detergents✓✗✓ ✗*✓ ✓
Low cost✓✓ ✗†✗✓‡

  • *Some respirators are disposable and others are reusable.

  • †Surgical masks are low cost individually, but cannot be reused and so require ongoing supplies, which can be costly.

  • ‡Cost of surgical mask ~10–15 cents, cloth masks ~20–30 cents, N95 respirators ~ $1–3 and new hybrid mask ~ $3–4. A hybrid mask will be reusable (up to 1 year) and therefore would be cost-effective in the long run.

  • N/A, not applicable.