Have an Instant Pot? DHS says you can use it to decontaminate an N95

In April, we warned you that decontaminating disposable N95 masks in your home oven wasn’t a good idea. But we also showed you how to do it if you had no other choice. Now, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is offering a safer alternative: using a programmable pressure cooker with a sous-vide setting, like the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus. This method allows you to safely reuse a disposable N95 mask up to five times.

So if you picked up a multi-cooker when we suggested using sous-vide for cooking during the pandemic, you can now feel a little proud — this might be the perfect use for it.

Why the Pressure Cooker Method Works

N95 masks are labeled as single-use for a reason. However, during the coronavirus pandemic, many healthcare workers faced severe shortages. That’s why the Instant Pot method should only be used in emergency situations — not as a regular practice.

The DHS clearly states in its 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.”

This method works by heating the masks to 149°F (65°C) for 30 minutes using moist heat. The key is to use a paper bag to allow steam to reach the mask without over-saturating it. The moisture helps kill germs, while the paper bag prevents direct contact with water, which could damage the mask's structure.

This technique is suitable for most N95 respirators but isn't approved for other types of masks. Also, it hasn’t been officially endorsed by the FDA.

How to Use Your Instant Pot for Mask Decontamination

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

  • An Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus or another programmable pressure cooker with a sous-vide function.
  • A rack (usually included with the pot).
  • Small binder clips to adjust the rack height if needed.
  • 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 safe, allowing you to decontaminate up to three masks at once:

  1. Pour half an inch of water into the bottom of the pot.
  2. Place the rack inside, ensuring the paper bag won’t touch the water. If necessary, attach binder clips to the bottom of the rack to raise it.
  3. Put up to three N95 masks in a paper bag. Wear gloves and handle the masks with one hand only.
  4. Dispose of the gloves and wash your hands thoroughly.
  5. Roll the top of the bag and secure it with a staple or paperclip.
  6. Place the sealed bag on the rack inside the cooker and close the lid securely.
  7. Set the sous-vide mode to 149°F (65°C) for 30 minutes.
  8. Start the cooking cycle.

After the cycle ends, carefully remove the bag from the cooker (make sure it’s not under pressure). Take out the masks and let them air dry for about an hour in a clean area.

Once the masks are dry, check them for any signs of damage. If they look intact and functional, they’re ready to be worn again!

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