Aldi now sells two-packs of reusable coronavirus face masks for £5

ALDI is selling packs of two reusable and washable coronavirus face masks for a fiver.

The discounter is stocking the protective equipment ahead of new rules that come into force from June 15, when Brits will have to wear a face mask on public transport.

⚠️ Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates

Aldi's masks come in one size and are big enough to cover the mouth and nose.

The white cotton masks have elastane straps that can be hooked around your ears to keep it in place when you're using it.

They're also double-layered for extra protection and are machine washable at a temperature of 95°C.

They cost £4.99 for two, making each mask just under £2.50.

How to make a homemade mask

IF you're unable to find a mask, you could make your own at home.

Homemade masks won't offer the same level of protection as medical-grade ones, but it hasn't stopped DIY tutorials popping up online.

One of the simplest ones involves using two layers of kitchen roll and one tissue cut in half.

You then cover each end with masking tape – and you can even tape down some wire to stiffen the mask, if you have any.

Finish by punching holes in each end and threading elastic through to fit around your ears.

If you don't have elastic bands you could also use a hair tie.

It's the cheapest price we've seen for a reusable mask, with some of the cheapest options available to buy from Amazon and eBay where prices start at £3.

The masks are being stocked as part of the retailer's in-store Specialbuy range which means they won't be a permanent addition to supermarket shelves.

Aldi isn't stocking the face coverings online, so you'll need to check out your local store when you're next in there.

You can find your nearest branch here, using the store locator tool.

Just bear in mind the supermarket recommends children under seven should be supervised while wearing the masks, while those under 24-months shouldn't use them at all.

Face coverings won't stop you from getting the virus, but scientific evidence shows they can stop you passing coronavirus on to others if you are asymptomatic or have yet to develop symptoms.

Top advisers in SAGE recommend using a face covering you can make yourself, or using something such as a bandana or thick scarf for when you're out and about.

The masks sold in Aldi are not medical masks, as N95 of FFP3 coverings are most needed by NHS heroes and carers, or those looking after people with coronavirus, and can only be worn once.

Reusable masks should be regularly washed but they will also save you cash in the long run.

Many smaller and local businesses have also turned their hands to making reusable face masks in a range of funky designs, but they'll cost you more than Aldi's bargain buys as prices tend to start around the £3.50 mark.

Source: Read Full Article