Cloth Masks for protection against COVID-19: MythBuster .

Increased interest in cloth masks has been driven by global PPE shortages, but the best available evidence tells a cautious story. A randomized trial comparing cloth and medical masks in healthcare settings found higher infection rates among cloth mask users, along with far greater particle penetration. Laboratory work adds to the concern, showing that moisture can reduce filtration and even propel trapped viruses forward. While cloth masks may seem like a practical workaround, current evidence suggests they offer limited protection in clinical environments and may even introduce added risks if reused or cleaned improperly.