There is an increasing demand for surgical masks around the world. In fact, the U.S. government is concerned right now that there aren’t enough domestic surgical mask manufacturers to meet a potential demand in case there is a pandemic of some kind. Although most of the Ebola epidemic happened an ocean away—and surgical masks are just one piece of the entire protective gear needed for that particular pathogen—there is a clear need for surgical mask manufacturers to stock up on the elastic that go on the masks.

There are several styles of masks used across the medical field (including family practice, hospitals, dental offices, laboratories, EMS, etc.) for the purpose of preventing the spread of airborne pathogens or contaminants. In addition to medical usage, masks made for the medical field are also being used as protection against dust and pollution by people world-wide. There are three key essentials to consider when procuring bulk elastic cord for surgical mask manufacturing:

• Comfort—Medical personnel, emergency workers and people who need to protect themselves from dust and pollution need masks that have comfortable, fabric-covered elastic loops that do not chafe around the head, ears or twist in the hair.
• Durability—While surgical masks used in hospitals or other medical facilities are often one-time-use items, the elastic still needs to be heavy-duty for long-term wear. Emergency workers protecting their mouths and noses from dust and pollution especially need durability for difficult conditions.
• Effectiveness—Also, the cords needs to maintain their elasticity without overstretching so the mask maintains its protectiveness.

Typically, a thicker, fabric-covered elastic cord loops through the mask material so the wearer can quickly attach the mask over the face by securing the elastic cord behind the ears. Therefore, soft, but durable polyester elastic cord is needed in mask manufacturing. Elastic Connections has several options for thick, soft elastic cord that is perfect for surgical mask production. Contact us for details at 847-426-6830.