One layer of a tightly woven cotton sheet combined with two layers of polyester-spandex chiffon—a sheer fabric often used in evening gowns—filtered ... Finding effective face mask fabric. New research suggests a combination of cotton with natural silk or chiffon makes for the most effective mask. Best Face Mask Materials: Cotton With Chiffon. Masks … A new study published in the scientific journal ACS Nano found that homemade face masks that use a combination of tightly woven cotton and polyester-spandex chiffon or silk will provide a very effective filter for the aerosol particles that spread the COVID-19 virus. With the many materials available to make a face mask, you might be wondering, “is polyester good for a face mask?” Polyester is a synthetic fiber obtained from air, water, petroleum, and coal. The fibers … Pull out that sewing machine. Colorful DIY fabric face masks. Scientists tested a variety of common household fabrics to determine which worked best as a homemade face mask to prevent the spread of Covid-19.