Here are the basics of how to wear a mask: Clean your hands before you put your mask on, as well as before and after you take it off. Make sure it covers both your nose, mouth and chin. Here are some specifics on what type of mask to wear and when, depending on how much virus is circulating where you live, where you go and who you are. Wear a fabric mask unless you’re in a particular risk group. This is especially important when you can’t stay physically distanced, particularly in crowded and poorly ventilated indoor settings.