Since the pandemic began, wearing a mask has become part of daily life. Because many people still feel uncomfortable in a mask, some lower it to their chin when it feels too tight or stuffy. Unfortunately, sliding a mask down to the chin raises the chance of catching Covid-19. So, what can you do instead?

The Risks of Wearing Your Mask on Your Chin

People often pull their masks down to the chin when eating, when they feel short of breath, or even when they drive alone. Yet placing a mask on your chin can increase the risks of exposure to the Covid-19 virus.

The chin is not consistently covered by a mask and can catch germs from the surrounding air. When you pull a mask down to your chin, microbes can move from the chin to the mask and back again. When you pull it up later, the protection you get from the mask is reduced.

Lowering the mask also requires touching it, which can contaminate the surface and make it more likely you will touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. This behavior can further raise the risk of Covid-19 transmission.

Safe Ways to Avoid Pulling Your Mask Down to Your Chin

If resting your mask on your chin is risky, what should you do when you are not actively wearing it, such as while eating? Consider these safer options:

1. Remove and Store Your Mask

When it is time to eat, you will need to take your mask off. To do this safely, remove it by the straps and handle only the straps. Avoid touching the front of the mask and avoid contact with your eyes, nose, and mouth while removing it. Be sure to wash your hands before and after taking off your mask.

After removal, place the mask in a clean, dry container such as a paper bag or a mesh pouch. If you do not have a container, you may keep it briefly in a shirt or pants pocket. When you are done eating, take it out and put it back on properly.

If the mask becomes damp, seal it in a plastic bag. If you are using a cloth mask, wash it right away with soap and water to prevent mold from forming.

2. Remove and Replace Your Mask

Some people suggest placing a mask on the table while eating or when it is not in use. This is not advised because table surfaces can carry germs that will cling to the mask once you put it back on.

A better approach is to remove and store your mask as described above, then switch to a fresh one. Keep an extra mask in your bag so you can change it if it becomes wet or dirty. In addition, the WHO advises changing masks about every four hours. To follow this guidance, carry a spare mask along with a paper bag and a plastic bag whenever you go out.

For now, wearing a mask correctly remains one of the most effective ways to reduce Covid-19 transmission. If a mask is worn the wrong way, its benefits are diminished. Along with avoiding a mask on the chin, refrain from touching your mask unless you have cleaned your hands first.

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