In April, we warned you that decontaminating disposable N95 masks in your home oven was not a safe or effective method. However, we also provided a step-by-step guide for those who were determined to try it anyway. Now, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced a new, more reliable approach: using a programmable pressure cooker with a sous-vide setting—like the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus—to safely decontaminate N95 respirators at home.
This method allows you to reuse a single-use N95 mask up to five times, making it a valuable option during times of shortage. So if you bought an Instant Pot back when we suggested using it for sous-vide cooking during the pandemic, you can now feel a little proud—you just might have saved yourself from a mask crisis later on.
Why the Pressure Cooker Method Works
N95 masks are labeled as single-use for good reason. But during the height of the coronavirus pandemic, healthcare workers and first responders often faced severe shortages. That’s why the DHS recommends this method only in critical situations where there's no other option.
According to the DHS FAQ, “The only time one should consider decontaminating them for reuse is in critical supply shortage situations where there is a need for respiratory protection and mask supplies are not sufficient to provide protection to those who need it.â€
The key to this method is using moist heat. The pressure cooker heats the masks to 149°F (65°C) for 30 minutes, which effectively kills pathogens without damaging the mask’s structure. A paper bag is essential—it allows steam to penetrate the mask while preventing it from getting too wet, which could compromise its integrity.
This technique works best with standard N95 masks but isn’t recommended for other types of face coverings. Also, it’s important to note that the FDA hasn’t officially approved this method, so it should be used cautiously and only when necessary.
How to Use Your Instant Pot for Mask Decontamination
If you’re ready to try this method, here’s what you’ll need:
- An Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus or another programmable pressure cooker with a sous-vide feature
- A rack (usually included with the pot)
- Small binder clips to adjust the rack height
- Distilled, bottled, or filtered water
- Small paper bags that fit inside the cooker
- Staples or paper clips to seal the bags
- Disposable gloves
The process is straightforward and can handle up to three masks at a time:
- Pour half an inch of water into the bottom of the pot.
- Place the rack inside, adjusting its height with binder clips if needed so the paper bag doesn’t touch the water.
- Put up to three masks in a paper bag. Make sure to wear gloves and handle the masks with one hand to avoid contamination.
- Dispose of the gloves and wash your hands thoroughly.
- Roll the top of the bag and secure it with a staple or paperclip.
- Place the sealed bag on the rack inside the cooker and close the lid securely.
- Set the sous-vide function to 149°F (65°C) for 30 minutes.
- Start the cooking cycle and let it run until complete.
After the cycle ends, carefully remove the bag (make sure the pressure cooker is fully depressurized), take out the masks, and let them air dry for about an hour in a clean area.
Before reusing, inspect the mask for any signs of damage, such as tears or a broken seal. If it looks intact, it’s safe to use again!
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