A face covering is a material you wear that covers your nose and mouth. Wearing one helps stop the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus), especially from people who don't know they have the virus.
Cloth face coverings
Cloth face coverings are the type of face coverings most people should wear in public.
They are usually made from cotton or silk and should have at least 2 layers of fabric.
Medical face masks
Medical face masks are the common blue disposable masks that are widely available.
Wear a medical face mask if you are at higher risk of getting seriously ill if you get COVID-19. They give you better protection.
You should also wear a medical face mask at home if you:
- are self-isolating
- are living with or caring for someone who has COVID-19
Dispose of a medical face mask after you wear it once. You should not wash or reuse them.
Read more about what to do if you live with other people and you are self-isolating
Visors and face shields
Visors are not the best option for protecting yourself and others from COVID-19.
They should only be worn if you have an illness or impairment that makes wearing a face covering difficult.
Read more about who may be advised to wear a visor
Face coverings with valves or vents
Do not wear a face covering if it has a valve or vent.
These types of face coverings are not good for reducing the spread of the virus. This is because you could breathe in or breathe out the virus through the valve or vent.
They are normally used by construction workers or tradesmen to protect against dust. They are not designed to stop the spread of a virus.
Related topics
Protect yourself and others from COVID-19
Shopping safely during the COVID-19 pandemic
Disposable gloves and COVID-19
Last updated: 16 May 2021 at 1.10pm
