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luv2fly

(2,475 posts)
Fri Jan 7, 2022, 04:27 PM Jan 2022

Questions about reusing n95s and kn95s?

I'm sure this has been covered before, but I can't search so I will ask... Anyone have a good link to the most current thinking on reusing n95s and kn95s and how best to decontaminate them?

I know in the past I read something about paper bags, I'm pretty sure you're not supposed to wash them, but looking for assistance from those in the know. I'm guessing leaving them in my car when the weather is 8 below zero probably isn't the best option. Thanks!

9 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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Questions about reusing n95s and kn95s? (Original Post) luv2fly Jan 2022 OP
I read here to steam them a large pot on the stove. panader0 Jan 2022 #1
Not in the sun - sunlight and UV degrade them. Just in a dry place. Ocelot II Jan 2022 #6
Ours came with some suggestions not to use longer than 3 hours. PortTack Jan 2022 #2
That's where I keep mine. I rotate several of them, let them sit in the car Ocelot II Jan 2022 #5
I'm not sure freezing is a good idea? luv2fly Jan 2022 #9
Here you go.... BigmanPigman Jan 2022 #3
Very helpful thank you! n/t luv2fly Jan 2022 #8
I rotate 5 masks....air out for 5 days before reuse. pidge Jan 2022 #4
I don't believe Disaffected Jan 2022 #7

PortTack

(32,606 posts)
2. Ours came with some suggestions not to use longer than 3 hours.
Fri Jan 7, 2022, 04:33 PM
Jan 2022

Leaving them in your car in sub zero weather shouldn’t hurt. In fact if anything it would kill any virus or bacteria on the mask.

Ocelot II

(115,280 posts)
5. That's where I keep mine. I rotate several of them, let them sit in the car
Fri Jan 7, 2022, 04:41 PM
Jan 2022

for a few days, which is apparently sufficient.

luv2fly

(2,475 posts)
9. I'm not sure freezing is a good idea?
Fri Jan 7, 2022, 05:01 PM
Jan 2022

Granted this article is nearly two years old and I don't know how sound the source is, but they suggest freezing isn't a good option.

https://www.michigansthumb.com/news/amp/You-ask-HDT-answers-will-placing-PPE-in-the-15169316.php

Disaffected

(4,507 posts)
7. I don't believe
Fri Jan 7, 2022, 04:45 PM
Jan 2022

the N95s can be cleaned or decontaminated by any method generally available to the general public. They can however be reused with a total cumulative time of about 8 hours, I have read.

They can apparently be treated using vaporized hydrogen peroxide or UV light but I don't believe those methods would be practical for most folks.

More info:

https://www.medpagetoday.com/infectiousdisease/covid19/85982

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