The shelf life of the commonly used disposable medical masks, surgical masks and protective masks is usually 2-3 years!
Under the condition that the original package is intact, medical surgical masks are stored in the relative humidity below 80%, in the normal temperature environment and avoid sunlight, well ventilated and clean, and have a sterile shelf life of 2 years.
How long is the mask effective?
Masks should be used in time after opening. No matter what type of masks are, their protective effect is limited and they need to be replaced regularly.
The effective performance of the medical protective mask lasts for 6~8 hours; Surgical masks are usually replaced every four hours. Disposable medical masks should not be used for more than 4 hours;
There is no specific time limit for N95 masks. For non-frontline medical staff using N95 masks, they can be replaced within 2-3 days according to the use situation;
Non-medical masks (such as dust masks, cotton gauze masks, activated carbon masks, sponge masks, etc.) can be reused during the shelf life, and whether or not to change depends on the cleanliness of the mask.
The longer the mask is used, the larger particles are blocked on the mask surface or the ultrafine particles are blocked in the filter material gap of the mask, which will lead to the decrease of filtration efficiency and the increase of respiratory resistance.
The following conditions require immediate replacement of the mask
1. The mask is damp;
2. Odor in the mask;
3. Respiratory resistance increased significantly;
4. The mask is damaged or damaged;
5. The mask cannot fit with the face;
6. The mask is contaminated (such as blood stains or droplets);
7. Use or contact with patients in isolation wards.
Will the mask still work after it expires?
Masks should not be used after expiration!
Medical masks can remain sterile within their shelf life, but once they expire, they can no longer be guaranteed sterile, and their protective properties will slowly decline with the passing of time.
In addition, the mask itself is very susceptible to moisture, if the time is too long, it is easy to breed bacteria, viruses or other pathogenic microorganisms, as well as other moldy harmful substances, its adsorption, anti-splash and other protective performance will be significantly reduced.
Wearing such masks may cause skin irritation and eczema.
Post time: Nov-04-2022