A: When you return home, you should remove your face covering carefully. Untie the strings or stretch the ear loops and remove the mask, handling only the ear loops or ties. Wash your hands before and after handling your face covering. If you are using a surgical mask, place it in a plastic bag and put it in the trash to properly dispose of it. Surgical masks can only be used once. If you are using a cloth mask, you can reuse it. Wash your cloth face covering with detergent and hot water frequently, ideally after each use.