Textile and Apparel Science

Cloth Face Mask Fit and Functionality for Children 4-6 Years Old

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Abstract

Children 4-6 years old have high vulnerability to airborne pathogens such as COVID-19 due to higher respiration rates and developing immune systems. Additionally, they have underdeveloped dexterity required to adjust face masks to achieve proper fit. Face mask effectiveness relies on the air filtration through mask layers to prevent pathogens from entering the human body's respiratory system. Several factors that critically impact their functionality, breathability, and filtration efficiency include fit, material type, fabric structure, and number of layers. This study investigated consumer insights of commercially available children's face mask attributes, analyzed their fit to identify discrepancies between anthropometrics and sizing, examined the impact of material properties on performance, and identified design criteria for improved functionality. The findings of this study proposed optimal textile properties and specific design criteria for improved protection, breathability, and comfort based on results from online survey, fit analysis, and evaluation of filtration efficiency and air permeability.

Keywords: Children's face masks, COVID-19, cloth masks, fit, materials

How to Cite:

Du Puis, J. L., Goodge, K., Forstenhausler, L. N., Maher, M., Frey, M., Baytar, F. & Park, H., (2022) “Cloth Face Mask Fit and Functionality for Children 4-6 Years Old”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 78(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.13825