Admit it… prior to 2020 when you thought pandemic your mind conjured images of zombies and people running around in full hazmat suits. In this imaginary world of turmoil, everything happened too quickly to plan for the sudden onslaught of hysteria. Hospitals were chaotic and when it was finally safe to venture outside—the hometown you always loved suddenly looked like a ghost town with looted gas stations, abandoned vehicles, and bad guys waving guns around threatening your life for a pint of water. Basically, for most, the thought of a pandemic meant the apocalypse. Then came 2020. The pandemic did hit quickly. The stores were flooded, all the shelves were emptied overnight and — for reasons I still cannot explain — it was easier to find a wild orangutan than a roll of toilet paper. But, unlike an action film on the big screen, the world outside remained relatively normal — albeit stressful. I can’t deliver rainbows and butterflies, but I can offer a few tips to help you get through this difficult time.
Cloth masks can’t provide the same level of protection as medical-grade masks, but they can offer an added level of protection to the general public. In order for them to be effective, you need to continue to practice the same preventative measures you would without them; social distancing, staying 6 feet away from others, washing hands frequently, and not touching your face. But, wearing face masks with glasses can be tricky and cause your eyewear to fog up when your breath reaches the surface of your lenses. There are ways to prevent this fogging. •
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Wash glasses in soapy water before using a mask. Some reports say any soapy water will work. I have found that dishwasher liquid works best. There are two methods, depending on what soap you use. If you are using regular soapy water, wash the lenses thoroughly, shake off the excess and then allow the lenses to air dry. If using dishwashing soap, put a drop of liquid on the lens and smear it over the surface completely. Let it sit for 3-5 minutes, then wipe clean. I also use this method if I want to take a swim in my jetted tub with a good book. Another method is to use a mask with a wire so it has a fitted feel to it. This will prevent your exhaled breath from reaching your glasses. If possible, use a mask that has an opening where you can place a filter. Don’t worry, you don’t need to go out and buy anything. Just stuff a folded tissue or paper towel inside the opening. If your cloth mask doesn’t have an opening, place a folder paper towel or tissue between the mask and your mouth, then secure it tightly so the tissue won’t fall out. It will absorb the warm, moist air and prevent it from reaching your lenses.
