Reusable Masks

We know that this is a challenging time for waste reduction efforts. To help address new sources of waste being generated as a result of COVID-19, Waste Free Edmonton has launched a Reusable Masks Campaign, which encourages Edmontonians to use reusable masks wherever possible. By doing so, you can also promote local small businesses and those making reusable masks using upcycled fabrics.

A reusable mask
An Earth Warrior Lifestyle mask

Reusable Masks Q and A

1. Why should I choose a reusable mask over a disposable one?

As difficult as the COVID-19 pandemic has been, it is not the only crisis the world is grappling with. The plastic crisis generating tonnes of unrecoverable garbage, leaching microplastics into our ecosystems, and contributing to climate change existed before this pandemic and will last beyond the worst of it. Some of the single-use plastic waste is necessary, as seen with the needs of frontline workers, but for day-to-day use in non-medical areas, reusable masks help cut down on unneeded plastic waste. Purchasing locally made reusable masks also helps Edmontonian small businesses.

2. Why isn’t your language inclusive for those that require disposable masks?

There are people for whom reusable masks are not an option. For example, disposable masks are essential in health-care settings, and for those without access to facilities to properly wash reusable masks. So while there are some circumstances where disposable masks may be necessary, the widespread adoption of mask bylaws do not require the use of disposable masks. Waste Free Edmonton believes that this pandemic isn’t the only crisis we’re living with, and that the waste crisis requires our immediate attention as well. Reducing the prevalence of single-use masks being used is one way we want to address unnecessary waste, while preserving the supply chain for people that need single-use masks.

3. What if I don’t like reusable masks? I like my disposable ones more.

As an environmental non-profit, Waste Free Edmonton’s mandate is to reduce the amount of waste generated in Edmonton. Encouraging reusable masks is part of our organization’s goal to foster a more sustainable Edmonton. Unlike other single-use items, we do not want to abolish single-use masks. We want Edmontonians to be aware of the environmental impacts of this pandemic and that other choices are available and accessible to them.

4. Do reusable masks work?

Our understanding of COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 has evolved rapidly since the start of this pandemic. The most common explanation for coronavirus transmission is through respiratory droplets expelled through the mouth while coughing, sneezing, and more.

Reusable masks are advised when physical distancing is not possible, and as part of other hygienic measures like hand washing and self-quarantining. 

Government authorities have encouraged cloth facial coverings internationally, including Edmonton. Our understanding of mask effectiveness has also evolved — while widespread use was frowned upon early on in the pandemic, more studies and data have confirmed mask wearing and mandatory mask bylaws as effective tools to slow transmission.

5. How do I ensure my reusable masks are properly cleaned?

There are a couple ways to clean and sterilize reusable masks:

  • Wash daily with soap and water and hang dry, or throw it in with your laundry.
  • Place in a paper bag and leave alone for a couple days. Plastic bags trap moisture, which allows the virus to thrive.
  • There is debate about the use of direct sunlight and UV rays in disinfecting masks. It should not be the first choice for cleaning reusable masks, and for masks containing plastics or filters, sunlight may actively degrade them.

No matter the material, this coronavirus does not appear to survive on surfaces for long periods of time. For people using reusable masks, it is important to have multiple masks available and to not wear masks on consecutive days.

6. Where can I find reusable masks made locally?

There are a large number of local businesses making/selling masks (many of which are locally made). Follow the #YEGmasks hashtag to find some great ideas, or go to one of the businesses listed below:

A pencil case full of reusable masks on a colourful table

Contact Us

For more information on how you can get involved, or if you or your business are looking for ways to reduce your waste, email us at info@wastefree.ca, or fill out the form below (please add info@wastefree.ca to your contacts to ensure that you receive our reply).