Due to the current COVID19 pandemic, there is an increasing demand for masks as they are necessities to protect others and limit the spread of the virus. One question that many people might have is: Which is more effective and give better protection? Woven Vs Non-Woven masks? This blog will explain the difference between these two types and eventually, give you a better understanding and help you make a better decision.
Non-Woven Masks
Most disposable masks are made of melt-blown non-woven polypropylene (PP). Their density is about 20-25 grams per square meter. The fabric is made through melt-blown technology. Plastic is extruded through a die with hundreds of small nozzles and blown by hot air and they become tiny fibers, again cooling and binding on a conveyor. These fibers are less than a micron in diameter.
Non-woven PP is a cost-effective material for masks and has a lower manufacturing cost. Due to their micro pattern and structure, they give better bacteria filtration and air permeability. They have about a minimum of 95 percent of bacteria filtration efficiency. In addition, they are also lightweight, waterproof, flexible, and resilient. Lastly, they are more hygienic and cleaner as they are for single use.
Disposable Surgical Masks
Disposable surgical masks have 3 layers and the 2 outer layers are 20-25 grams per square meter of melt-blown non-woven polypropylene (PP). The middle layer is a microfibre filter which can filter most microparticles. The inner layer of the masks absorbs moisture from your saliva or mucus whereas the outer layer of PP repels water.
Civilian Use
- Packaging: 50 pieces per box.
- Size: 17.5cm X 9.5cm
- Material: 3 protective layers
- Certification: CE Product, FDA – factory registered
- Product Code: #2824, #2936, #2967
Medical Use
- Packaging: 50 pieces per box.
- Size : 17.5cm X 9.5cm
- Material: 3 protective layers with extra filtration and a higher level of protection
- Certification: CE Product, FDA – factory registered
- Product Code #2839, #2969
Kids Masks
- Size: 14cm x 9cm
- Material: 3 Protective Layers
- Product Code: #2948
KN95 Masks
KN95 Masks have 4 protective layers, with the 2 outer layers being non-woven polypropylene. The middle 2 layers are microfibre filters. KN95 masks have a higher density of PP than surgical masks. Hence, they have better filtration. 
- Packaging: 20 pieces per bag.
- Usage: Civilian use
- Size : 22 cm X 15cm.
- Material: 4 protective layers, non-woven cloth, filter paper, and lead-carbon cloth.
- Bridge – environmental protection type plastic strip, equipped with air permeability
- Certification: CE Product, FDA – factory registered
- Product Code: #2825 #2833, #2964
Woven Masks
As the supply of disposable non-woven masks is unable to meet the current demand, custom reusable face masks are the rising trend. They are more sustainable than disposable masks. However, they may not be effective in bacteria filtration. This is because the spacing between fibers is larger and hence, may be unable to filter smaller bacteria.
The bacteria filtration efficiency ranges with the type of fabric used. Some fabrics may have better filtration as they are of higher quality, have a higher thread count, and have tighter gaps.
Cotton Reusable Masks
The 2 outer layers of masks are cotton, which has about 70% effectiveness of bacteria filtration of 0.2-micron particles, similar in size to the coronavirus. They also have good breathability. However, users should wash them regularly to keep them clean between use.
The cotton masks also have a carbon filter as the middle layer, which can help filter germs and bacteria.
DIY Masks
There are many interesting news articles and blogs online about making your own DIY face mask. The filtration effectiveness varies with the type of fabric used. Some people used scarfs and bandanas as face masks, however, as they are looser fabrics, they have lower filtration effectiveness of around 50%. Cotton Blend T-Shirts and Antimicrobial Pillow Case have great filtration of about 68% and 70% respectively. In addition, they have better breathability than surgical masks and are more comfortable to wear. To make them more effective, multiple layers of fabric are advised.
You can also turn non-woven bags into masks.
Manufacturing Woven Masks
Vietnam has numerous face mask suppliers. Check out how they are manufactured and the designs of the different masks they offer. Their masks are indeed proven effective in limiting the spread of the disease in the country.
Conclusion – Which is Better? Woven Vs Non-Woven Masks?
In terms of bacteria filtration, non-woven masks are more effective in filtering micro particles than woven fabrics. However, as there may be a shortage of these masks for civilian use, non-woven reusable masks are great and more sustainable alternatives options. When using reusable masks, they should be washed between use. Lastly, when making your own masks, the fabric used should have good filtration effectiveness like a pillowcase and cotton T-Shirts, and multiple layers of fabric are advised for better filtration.
How ODM can help:
Masks are important now than ever. At ODM, we offer both disposable and reusable masks, we work with suppliers in China that have the required certification and have the best prices. If you need more advice on deciding between the two? You can reach out to us and our team will help you out.
Other than masks, we can also assist you with a broad range of COVID19-related products such as custom disposable kids masks, custom hand sanitizers, branded UV Light Sanitizers, branded paper soap, custom face mask pouch, or hand sanitizer packaging.
ODM is committed to working with partners as a Transparent Buying Office. We work open book with clients, factories, and suppliers. It is critical to get supplies moving fast and to have fair market pricing during the current Pandemic. Check out other #Covid19 and #Coronavirus related posts.
If you are also looking for other custom promotional products, our magazine has over 7000 case studies to inspire you with ideas. In addition, our team of designers and merchandisers can assist you in promotional product design and sourcing.
Other Relevant Blogs
ODM has compiled a list of COVID19 related products from masks to unique products. Read this blog to find out what we offer.
We also have a previous case study on Woven vs Non-Woven Bags. Find out what is the difference between the two.
These custom disposable kids’ masks are really cute and will give your child better protection!
Not only do these reusable masks can give you some protection, they also have a broad range of designs!
Shipping healthcare products from China may have some challenges. This blog is worth a read for you to understand some of the potential challenges.
