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Non-woven polypropylene (nonwoven polypropylene fabric) is the most commonly used material in medical-grade masks. nonwoven polypropylene fabric is not woven like regular fabric, but is made by spinning polypropylene fibers into threads and laying them onto a breathable, porous net that also provides filtration and natural water resistance. There are two types of nonwoven polypropylene fabric used in masks: spunbonded PP and melt-blown PP.
Spunbonded nonwoven polypropylene fabric is washable and reusable, while melt-blown nonwoven polypropylene fabric is considered a disposable material. This is due to differences in their structures and manufacturing processes. For reusable fabric masks, we recommend using spunbonded nonwoven polypropylene fabric.
Spunbonded nonwoven polypropylene fabric is a more durable material made from larger-diameter fibers that are heat-bonded together, making it more suitable for washing and reusing.
Melt-blown nonwoven polypropylene fabric is made from smaller and finer fibers, which is why this material is typically considered non-washable or reusable. While melt-blown nonwoven polypropylene fabric is considered safe for use in commercially manufactured masks and filters, the size of the melt-blown fibers suggests that extra caution may be needed when cutting, handling, and/or sewing these materials due to potential inhalation risks.
Yes, fabric masks made of spunbonded nonwoven polypropylene fabric can be washed and reused (by the same person). Disposable medical masks (and respirators) that contain melt-blown nonwoven polypropylene fabric are designed to be safely disposed of after one use, but due to ongoing shortages, they can be reused for up to five uses between intervals of at least five days, provided they are stored safely (e.g. in a breathable paper bag).
Yes, spunbonded nonwoven polypropylene fabric can be washed. Check with the manufacturer of the mask and/or material for specific washing instructions. In general:
nonwoven polypropylene fabric can be hand-washed with warm or hot water, thoroughly rinsed, and hung to dry. Hand-washing can extend the life of the nonwoven polypropylene fabric material. nonwoven polypropylene fabric can be machine-washed (with warm water) and tumble-dried (on low heat). We recommend placing nonwoven polypropylene fabric masks in a lingerie bag when washing to help them maintain their shape.
Avoid using bleach or alcohol on these fabrics as they can damage the qualities that make nonwoven polypropylene fabric a good choice. Be sure to rinse the mask thoroughly to remove any soap residue that might alter the mask's properties. Do not use fabric softeners as they can leave residue that may alter the fabric's properties. For disinfection, spunbonded nonwoven polypropylene fabric masks can be boiled for 10 minutes and then hung to dry.
