FACE MASK

The Body Doctor AB reusable antibacterial mask, €12.99, boots.ie

CLAIM: This mask has recycled silver-based antibacterial fibres woven into the fabric, as well as removable filters for added protection. It is ‘designed to decrease the spread of respiratory diseases’.

EXPERT VERDICT: It’s important to use a mask to reduce transmission of the Covid-19 virus, alongside regular handwashing and maintaining social distancing. The maker says this mask has silver fibres in the fabric to prevent germs sticking to its surface and reproducing, but washing it in hot water is better at removing bacteria and viruses than relying on silver fibres.

The filter may improve how effective it is at reducing the spread. Viruses are a thousand times smaller than bacteria; so tiny they can get through cloth easily. Having multiple layers of fabric — this mask has five — helps prevent them getting through. The filter will need replacing regularly, which adds to the overall cost.

7/10