But if you have a sewn mask without a pocket and want to use a HEPA filter, add another layer of fabric between the filter and your face and make sure you can breathe adequately.

The material from a non-woven polypropylene (with a No. 5 recyclable label) reusable shopping bag can be used to make an effective face mask filter.

Medical-grade masks are in short supply and should be reserved for health care professionals who need them most, but that doesn't mean you can't add a little extra protection to your cloth face mask.

If you're looking to boost your mask's ability to filter out small particles, we've got three tips from researchers who've been testing homemade mask materials in light of the pandemic.

Fortunately, there are now many mask options for kids, including high-performing cloth masks with built-in filters as well as disposable KN95 and surgical-style masks.