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Government recommendations for mask use in Australia have made it difficult for many to get their hands on a protective face mask quickly.
If you need to cover up in a hurry, bandanas and kerchiefs are an affordable alternative to traditional masks, but keep in mind that they offer far less protection from droplet particles and should only be used as a temporary measure.
While a bandana or kerchief will not afford you the same level of protection as a proper face mask, they are still better than not wearing a face covering at all.
To make your bandana or kerchief as protective as possible, ensure that it properly covers your nose and mouth with no gaps on the side. You should wash or sanitise your hands before and after wearing your mask alternative and should also avoid touching it while wearing it.
Be mindful that bandanas and other similar face coverings should only be used as a temporary cover up option. A recent study by researchers at Duke University in the US found that neck fleeces, bandanas and knitted face coverings offer little to no protection when it comes to stopping the spread of particles and recommends investing in either a 3-layer cotton mask or surgical face mask.
Face coverings should also be worn in addition to washing your hands, staying home and keeping 1.5 metres away from other people when you're in a public place.
To turn your bandana or kerchief into a face mask, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends folding it in half and then folding both the top and bottom in half again. Rubber bands or hair ties can then be placed around six inches apart to be used as earloops. To see the full tutorial, see the CDC website.
When turning your bandana into a face mask it is important that it fully covers your nose and mouth, allows you to breathe without restriction and fits snugly against your face. You may also want to consider adding a mask filter as the bandana on its own will afford you limited protection from particle droplets.
Along with bandanas and kerchiefs, there are some other alternatives to buying a face mask. Protective face shields are a great option for covering your eyes as well as your nose and mouth and can be found in both adults and kids sizes.
You can also choose to make your own face mask at home using materials such as fabric, T-shirts and socks. If you are making your own mask, it is recommended that you make it with three layers of fabric.
Main image: Getty Images
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