Why should I wear a mask or face covering?

As you may very well know, we're living in a pandemic that has sickened millions and killed hundreds of thousands globally. Face masks are scientifically proven to be one of the strongest ways in slowing the spread of the novel coronavirus. They help people stop from spreading or contracting the virus.

How are current face masks inaccessible?

Well, most face masks—like the standard disposable surgical masks, DIY fabric face coverings, bandanas, or scarves—fully cover the mouth. These common mask styles completely block any chance for lip-reading, facial cues, or facial expressions. Wearing a fully-covered mask makes communication inaccessible for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. They also make it difficult for older people to communicate easily, a group greatly affected by the pandemic.

Who am I helping by wearing an accessible face covering?

You're helping the deaf and hard of hearing–that's more than 466 million people globally, or 5% of the world. In the United States, this is about 15% of American adults who reported issues with their hearing. Wearing an accessible mask ensures access to daily communication for a large part of the world as we live through this current pandemic. It's more than just "seeing someone's smile."

What's an "accessible" face covering?

An "accessible" face covering has a clear, transparent, see-through window where others can see more of the wearer's face and mouth for easy communication. There are also emerging specialty face shields with necessary neck protection, such as, the Humanity Shield. Flip through our curated list of masks and get one for yourself!

Who should be wearing a clear mask? Why should I?

Anyone communicating with someone who has a hearing loss should wear a clear mask. You'd be making conversations easier and less stressful for deaf and hard of hearing people. Since hearing loss isn't a visible disability, everyone should wear a clear mask when around others–no matter what. It's also setting a precedent to make accessibility the norm.

Where, and when, should I wear a clear mask?

Wherever and whenever you're supposed to be wearing a face mask. In general, when you're out and about around other people outside of your home or quarantine pod. (Like you don't need to when on that solitary morning run!) 🏃

Sheesh... I have a really cool mask, though. Now I need another?!

Hey, wear your unique mask–for Instagram or for your secluded morning walk–we love it too! However, when you're knowingly going to be talking with others, opting for a clear one will significantly make communication easier. Also, take a look at some of the cool transparent masks available, such as the bright patterns from Rebirth Garments and the sleek minimal design from Sachika. We also understand money can be tight—so we selected plenty of budget-friendly options you can wear multiple times!

How should I take care of my clear mask? How do I ensure it's COVID-19 free?

Great questions! Taking good care of your clear masks isn't all that much different than taking care of the standard mask. Here's a handy list for you. In general –

• Wear your mask correctly, covering your nose and mouth
• Safely discard your disposable masks straight into the trash bin
• Don't excessively touch your reusable mask
• If you do touch it, wash your hands with soap and water (if unavailable, use hand sanitizer)

Well... can I wash a clear mask with the plastic and all?

Yes! It's very similar to washing other fabric masks. A lot of the businesses we have on our site have their own set of instructions, so we suggest reading those and abiding by them. If your accessible mask vendor doesn't provide care tips, it's best to hand wash your reusable clear mask with soap and hot water. You can put it in the washing machine if you do a gentle or delicate wash with a load that isn't too heavy. Afterwards, hang it somewhere to naturally air-dry. (Fresh air is your friend.) We don't recommend putting it in the dryer since it could affect the plastic.

*breathes* What about fogging?

Good thought! Very similar to glasses, fogging does happen with clear masks—but there are easy solutions with anti-fog products you can purchase or with remedies using stuff you have at home! Check out the next two questions!

Can I stop fogging with stuff I have at home?

Absolutely. All you need is dish soap, hand soap, or baby shampoo, and clean hands! Drop a very small dab of the soap—the size of a shirt button or less—onto the inside layer of the clear mask. Spread and rub it across the entire span of the inner plastic with your finger. Letting it air-dry before using it right away helps! Here's our co-founder, Jake deHahn, showing you a variety of solutions and how they all work tremendously! (CC is enabled)

Can I purchase anti-fogging products & where can I find them?

Definitely. You can grab sports anti-fog spray or glasses anti-fog products on major e-commerce or department store websites. Anti-fog products are also available at The Hearing Spot, Rafi Nova, Happy Laugh Masks, and ShowMySmile.

Is it hard to breathe with the plastic, though?

It's not any different than the face masks you're already wearing.

I have anxiety wearing a mask. What do you recommend?

We totally understand—wearing masks is new for most of us. Your emotions and anxiety are 100% valid. Here's an idea: It may help to start wearing the mask bit by bit. Wear it for 20 minutes when comfortably sitting and watching TV, reading a book, or doing your favorite relaxing activity. Try wearing it again while doing errands around your house, like the dishes or laundry. Then go for a walk in your neighborhood. We hope you'll feel comfortable wearing your clear mask confidently on your outings after! ** Call 1-800-273-TALK or text "HELLO" to 741741 if you want to talk to someone. Anxiety is real and there are people available to listen and help you.

Why should I wear a mask or face covering?

As you may very well know, we're living in a pandemic that has sickened millions and killed hundreds of thousands globally. Face masks are scientifically proven to be one of the strongest ways in slowing the spread of the novel coronavirus. They help people stop from spreading or contracting the virus.

How are current face masks inaccessible?

Well, most face masks—like the standard disposable surgical masks, DIY fabric face coverings, bandanas, or scarves—fully cover the mouth. These common mask styles completely block any chance for lip-reading, facial cues, or facial expressions. Wearing a fully-covered mask makes communication inaccessible for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. They also make it difficult for older people to communicate easily, a group greatly affected by the pandemic.

Who am I helping by wearing an accessible face covering?

You're helping the deaf and hard of hearing–that's more than 466 million people globally, or 5% of the world. In the United States, this is about 15% of American adults who reported issues with their hearing. Wearing an accessible mask ensures access to daily communication for a large part of the world as we live through this current pandemic. It's more than just "seeing someone's smile."

What's an "accessible" face covering?

An "accessible" face covering has a clear, transparent, see-through window where others can see more of the wearer's face and mouth for easy communication. There are also emerging specialty face shields with necessary neck protection, such as, the Humanity Shield. Flip through our curated list of masks and get one for yourself!

Who should be wearing a clear mask? Why should I?

Anyone communicating with someone who has a hearing loss should wear a clear mask. You'd be making conversations easier and less stressful for deaf and hard of hearing people. Since hearing loss isn't a visible disability, everyone should wear a clear mask when around others–no matter what. It's also setting a precedent to make accessibility the norm.

Where, and when, should I wear a clear mask?

Wherever and whenever you're supposed to be wearing a face mask. In general, when you're out and about around other people outside of your home or quarantine pod. (Like you don't need to when on that solitary morning run!) 🏃

Sheesh... I have a really cool mask, though. Now I need another?!

Hey, wear your unique mask–for Instagram or for your secluded morning walk–we love it too! However, when you're knowingly going to be talking with others, opting for a clear one will significantly make communication easier. Also, take a look at some of the cool transparent masks available, such as the bright patterns from Rebirth Garments and the sleek minimal design from Sachika. We also understand money can be tight—so we selected plenty of budget-friendly options you can wear multiple times!