Homemade face shield instructions
In times of pandemic or other health crises, a face shield can be an effective tool for keeping yourself — and those around you — safe.
Face shields are designed to protect the mouth, nose and eyes from airborne contaminants. But they have gaps along the sides and below the face. Because of this, they do not completely protect the wearer from respiratory droplets that may enter. They also don’t fully prevent them from escaping.
But sometimes a face shield is still the best (or only) option. And since they are relatively easy to make, it’s worth knowing how to make one.
What you will need to make a face shield
Here are some easy ways to make a face shield. Each method only takes about 10 or so minutes to do. Keep in mind that homemade face shields may not work as well against the spread of disease as officially approved shields. That said, they do work in a pinch.
Plastic folder and headband
This method was first shared by a woman on TikTok, and it’s quick and easy. All you need is a plastic folder insert, scissors and a simple headband.
Start by locating the hole in the plastic insert. Work the headband into the hole until it’s all the way in. The sheet will naturally curve inward to fit the shape of the headband. Secure the band in place with tape or paper clips so it doesn’t slip out. To put on the face shield, set it just over your ears. The band should fit snugly against your forehead.
Acetate sheet and glasses
For this method, you’ll need an A4-sized acetate sheet, old pair of reading glasses, sticky Velcro mounting squares and scissors.
Begin by rounding off the four corners of the acetate sheet with the scissors. Then take two of the mounting squares and wrap one around each arm of the glasses. The soft side should be facing inward.
Once that’s done, take the sheet and bend it into a U-shape, as if to frame your face. Using that as a guide, affix two more sticky squares to the acetate sheet. Both squares should be placed parallel to each other.
Finally, stick the glasses to the sheet with the mounting squares. To use the face shield, simply put it on as you would a normal pair of glasses.
Soda or water bottle and hat
Use a box cutter to cut lengthwise through a clean 2-liter bottle. Go from the base to the neck, and cut off the base and neck of the bottle. Smooth down any sharp edges. Next, use paper clips or heavy-duty tape to fasten the plastic sheet to a baseball cap. Put on the cap to wear the face shield.
Plastic bottle and surgical face mask
This method works best for a baby or child with a small head.
First, take a clear 2-liter bottle that has a smooth surface. Next, cut the bottle in half using a pair of scissors, box cutter or sharp knife again. Make a second cut all the way through the bottle to remove the neck. You should have a clear, relatively even rectangular sheet of plastic.
Cut the sheet to 6 inches in width to serve as the visor. Carefully round the edges of the plastic to remove any sharp areas.
For the forehead band, cut a second smaller piece about 1 inch in width out of the bottle. Round the edges with the scissors, and slip the smaller sheet of plastic into a surgical face mask. This will provide padding and protection on the child’s skin.
To connect the two pieces, simply place the band over the shield and secure them together using medical tape. Tie or tape the straps of the medical mask together for a rounded, secure face shield. To wear it, place the shield over a hat or beanie on the child’s head. If it doesn’t quite fit, adjust the size as needed.
How to use a face shield
Here’s how to properly put on and remove a face shield.
Put on a face shield
To use a face shield, position each strap over the wearer’s ears so the band of the shield is secured to their forehead. The shield should be just above the eyebrows and reach below the chin. If the shield is too large, adjust the straps to make it fit better.
Remove a face shield
When removing a face shield, be careful not to touch the front of it. If you do touch it, make sure to use sanitizer or wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds as soon as possible.
How to clean a face shield
Some face shields are disposable or one-time use. Unless necessary, these should not be kept longer than intended. The same goes for a face shield that is starting to lose its shape.
To clean a face shield, first put on a pair of gloves. Then wipe down both sides of the plastic with a disinfectant solution or disinfectant wipe. Let the shield air dry to prevent further contaminants from towels.
How to prevent fogging
A face shield may fog up when worn. This is especially common for those who wear glasses or safety goggles. To prevent this from occurring, add non-acidic dishwashing soap to room temperature water and apply it to the shield. Let it dry before using it.
Who should wear a face shield?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly anyone going out in public should wear a face shield. There are a few exceptions to this. For example, children under the age of 2 do not need to wear a face shield or mask. However, it can be worn as an additional safety measure.
A face shield may be better for people who cannot safely wear a mask due to a disability or respiratory problem. Unlike a mask, a face shield does not obstruct airflow nearly as much as a mask can.
Angela Watson is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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