Making Improvised PPE When Supplies Run Out

Use 100% cotton fabric with tight weave (sheets, pillowcases, t-shirts work). Layer 3-4 pieces together. Add elastic ear loops by threading through small holes or using hair ties. Inner layer traps large droplets. Middle layers filter smaller particles. Outer layer repels moisture. Mask effectiveness increases with more layers and tighter weave. Fit matters—adjust and seal edges around nose and cheeks. Remember this protects others primarily; filtration of incoming air is limited without proper fit.

Cloth masks alone provide minimal protection against inhaled pathogens. Use as last resort only. Must be combined with other methods (distancing, ventilation, eye protection).

Cut a clear plastic bottle (2-liter works best) in half lengthwise. Remove sharp edges with sandpaper or file. Attach to a headband or fabric strap using duct tape or zip ties. Position shield to cover face and eyes completely. Shield must extend 2-3 inches beyond face on all sides. Clear tape reinforces weak areas. Face shields alone do not filter air but block large droplets. Combine with mask for better protection. Clean with soap and water after each use.

Plastic shields fog easily and restrict airflow. Allow for breathing room. Not a substitute for fitted masks in high-risk situations.

Use plastic bags, plastic wrap, or latex-free material. Double-layer for strength. Secure at wrist with tape, elastic bands, or by tucking into sleeve. Ensure complete hand coverage with no gaps. Change gloves between different tasks or if visibly soiled. Store clean pairs in sealed bags. Gloves prevent hand-to-face transmission and protect from touching contaminated surfaces. Do not touch face while wearing gloves—removes primary benefit. Remove carefully (see decontamination steps below).

Improvised gloves tear easily. Check for holes before and during use. Punctured gloves offer no protection.

Use clear safety glasses if available. If not, modify regular glasses with clear plastic wrap or thin clear film. Seal edges with medical tape to prevent droplets from entering at sides. Goggles or wrap-around glasses work better than standard frames. Eyes are mucous membranes—pathogens can enter here. Protect top, bottom, and sides of eyes. Clean eye protection regularly with soap and water. Replace plastic wrap when it becomes cloudy or damaged.

Modified glasses reduce visibility and comfort. Ensure you can still see clearly to move safely. Do not wear during tasks requiring unobstructed vision.

Use large plastic trash bags or plastic sheeting to cover torso and arms. Cut holes for head and arms, or wear as poncho style. Secure with duct tape at neck, wrists, and waist. Gowns prevent body contact with contaminated materials. Cover as much skin as possible. Wear over normal clothes. One-time use gowns are ideal—dispose after wear. Reusable gowns must be carefully decontaminated (see step 6). Plastic retains heat—wear for short periods only. Keep cool water nearby.

Plastic overheating and limited visibility can cause falls or disorientation. Work in cool areas. Remove immediately if you feel faint.

Order matters to avoid cross-contamination. (1) Remove outer gown or coat first—roll inward to contain outer surface, place in trash bag. (2) Remove gloves by pinching outside at wrist, peel downward turning inside-out as you go, dispose immediately. (3) Perform hand hygiene with soap and water (minimum 20 seconds) or sanitizer if water unavailable. (4) Remove eye protection by handling straps only, place in designated cleaning area. (5) Remove face mask by handling straps, never touch front surface, dispose in bag. (6) Wash hands and face thoroughly again. Take breaks between steps if needed. Keep trash bags sealed.

Touching the contaminated front surface of mask or gloves defeats entire process. Work slowly and deliberately. If you contaminate yourself during removal, restart from that step.