Because it’s extremely important to continue social distancing to slow the spread of COVID-19 and to avoid a second wave, the CDC recommends all Americans wear some kind of cloth face covering in public. And many businesses that are reopening require it. While many of the masks that we describe are not medical grade, they can help by blocking saliva and particle transmission or act as a cover for the one-time-use masks being used by healthcare workers. These brands are continuing to keep up with the production of face masks as the demand for them continues.
N95 Masks Co
N95 Mask Co recently launched the Respokare NIOSH N95 respirator mask, a new type of mask that inactivates up to 99.9% of flu viruses and other airborne health hazards within minutes. That is even more protection than the sought-after N95 mask. A bundle of four masks costs $50 and a 10-pack for $90. While the company is U.S.-based, masks are made and shipped from China but N95 Mask Co promises to deliver your masks in just three days. Most people will not need 100 or more masks at a time, so the minimum 20-pack is probably your best bet for the KN95 and N95 masks without breaking the bank.
Lunair
This American brand produces the only face masks on the market that are made with Fuze technology, a proprietary finish that helps fend off odor-causing bacteria and mold. Plus, their limitless patterns and colorways means there’s a mask for everyone.
Someone Somewhere
Someone Somewhere, a digitally native fashion and lifestyle brand founded in Mexico that launched in the U.S. during the pandemic. The brand has lifted thousands of people out of poverty by providing work for artisans in Mexico. They have increased income by 300% to date. When the pandemic hit, not only was a wrench thrown in Someone Somewhere’s plan to launch in the U.S. in 2020, but they also had to shut down their retail stores in Mexico which brought in 70% of their sales at the time. Like many other small businesses, they decided to pivot and produce this ‘Easy Mask.’ For every mask purchased, they donate 1 to a person living in a rural community where the impact of COVID is much higher due to lack of healthcare facilities. They have donated 4,000 masks so far.
ARI JOGIEL
ARI JOGIEL is a manufacturing and development company who works with over 100 fashion brands offering full package services bringing concepts to life based in Los Angeles.When Mayor Garcetti and Governor Cuomo asked manufacturers to make masks to help those in need, ARI JOGIEL took it to heart and took the time to research, design, source, test and create their “Vanguard Guard to Guard Masks,” made in LA. For every mask purchased, ARI JOGIEL donates a mask to support a fearless frontline worker. They have the capacity and manpower to produce 100,000 masks per week. The premium stitch-mask features two layers of anti-microbial fabric, built-in 100% cotton filter, two adjustable straps and are re-washable and durable.
Day Owl
Day Owl is a new eco-conscious brand that probably makes the most thoughtful backpacks ever created. The brand put that same level of thoughtfulness into its face masks. These face coverings are made for comfort and protection with adjustable ear loops, nose strips, and two custom sizes. You get to choose three color masks in the set with a matching case to better protect the spread of germs. Even better, when you purchase the set, Day Owl donates a mask to a waste collector from their sister nonprofit, WORK.
Caraa
NYC-based sport bag and accessory brand Caraa recently launched in initiative called Caraa Cares. This initiative minimizes waste by using leftover fabrics to create reusable, washable (not to mention super chic) non-medical-grade face masks. The brand will be matching all mask purchases with a donation of their own.
Collina Strada
This New York Fashion Week favorite brand recently launched face masks with “Black Lives Matter” embroidered on its signature tie-dye cotton twill style. It’s one of the pricier masks on this list, but also money well spent, as 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the Homeless Black Trans Women’s Fund.
For Days
For only $25, you’ll receive a pack of five double-layered cotton masks while also donating five to an essential worker on the front lines in LA. Each mask has space for a filter insert for extra protection.
Buck Mason
Buck Mason, a cult-favorite California brand, is selling a pack of five anti-microbial reusable face masks to last up to 30 wash cycles.
Hedley & Bennett
With every purchase, LA-based chef gear label, Hedley & Bennett, is donating one to the front-line workers — the doctors, nurses, first responders, grocery store employees, restaurant workers, and others who are putting their lives on the line for us. The company recommends inserting a disposable filter into the inner pocket of the mask. After using it, the filter should be disposed of, and the mask should be machine washed.
Sanctuary
This LA-based women’s fashion boutique stands by their long-living hashtag, #SanctuaryGivesBack, to provide masks to organizations in need. The company created a 5-pack unisex assortment for $28 in its signature cool casual prints.
Mother
Even premium denim brands, like Mother, are using their heritage fabrics to create well-made face masks that resemble their famed jeans. The outer styles are a mix of denim and sturdy fabrics, but the insides are all lined with cotton for maximum comfort.
Classic Sofa
New York-based furniture brand Classic Sofa is widely known for its quality, style, and design, and its bespoke masks attain those standards. Each mask has an inner layer of durable cotton with a textured weave for a stylish appeal. They also come in three different sizes.
Christy Dawn
Sustainable brand Christy Dawn is selling double deadstock and organic cotton masks in a “get five, give five” structure. You will support those in need of a mask while also supporting a brand that aims to save the planet.
Greylin
LA-based brand Greylin designed contoured face masks in a multitude of fabrics and styles. Each mask is extremely structured with three layers and a middle pocket for a disposable filter insert. Be sure to read the sizing of each style, as they can vary. Some masks even come with hand sanitizer!
Blackstrap
Made from upcycled fabric, and milled in the United States, outdoor brand Blackstrap is offering a range of Public Health Face Masks in response to COVID-19. The brand already specializes in face coverings for snow sports, UV protection and more, so these might just be the most comfortable on the list. The masks are one size fits all with moisture-wicking properties, making it easier to breath for longer periods of time. With over 80 different styles and prints, this product comes highly reviewed by its wearers. For every Civil Mask purchased, Blackstrap donates one to an individual in need.
Los Angeles Apparel
This pack-of three-cotton face covers features an adjustable nose and DIY straps to best fit your face.
Ética
Ethical small denim brand, Ética launched stylish masks in a get four, give four variety pack. For every pack sold, the company will donate a set to hospitals, health care workers and first responders across the country. Each mask is considered unisex and made using upcycled cotton fabrics with openings for a disposable filter. For an additional $8, the brand sells mask filter refills (a pack of 20).
Every Masks Counts
Every Mask Counts created this mask as a symbol to support the Black Lives Matter movement against the backdrop of the pandemic. The goal is to promote safety at the protests as we continue to fight for social justice. With a two-in-one feature, this style is reversible and 100% will be donated to the George Floyd Memorial Fund and other BLM related charities. In addition, for every mask purchased, the company donates one to someone in need in the fight against COVID-19. Each mask is double lined with cotton jersey, for a breathable stretch and added comfort.
Good Mask
This Portland-based company lives up to its name thanks to its face coverings, which are made using durable scuba knit, and come with an N99 filter that can remove airborne particles bigger than 0.3 microns (droplets from coughing and sneezing are about 5 microns). The masks’ exhale valves let hot air out so your glasses won’t fog up. Part of the proceeds will go to the Oregon Food Bank.
Ball and Buck
True to its roots, sporting brand Ball and Buck designed a camouflage print face mask to provide some level of protection against the transmission of the coronavirus. For every mask you purchase, the brand will donate one to a hospital in need.
Alabama Chanin
Made from double layered, 100% organic cotton with a special pocket for a filter for further protection, these Alabama Chanin masks are designed to meet the medical standards for COVID-19 medical providers.
Is it ok to buy face masks online?
Check the material: If you’re shopping for face masks online, make sure to check the material of the fabric. A recent study showed that out of 14 different types of face mask coverings, N95 mask with exhalation valve, surgical mask, 3-layer cotton were the three best options for material.
Check the brand: In the midst of the pandemic and cultural awakening, fashion brands are continuing to produce masks for citizens, essential workers, and healthcare workers on the front lines. And many are donating them to hospitals where the demand is high, and the supply is still low. Not to mention many brands such as UnderArmour, Nike, and Adidas are making their own sport masks available to purchase online.
Find one that suits your needs: If you’re someone who uses it every day and can be prone to maskne (acne from face masks) a face mask that won’t rub too much on your face is vital. If you’re looking for a face mask for everyone in your family, there are face masks made especially for children.
The CDC has also shared that many of the people who get the virus can be asymptomatic. We don’t know everything but it is suspected that these carriers can unknowingly pass on the virus in public places. If you’re struggling to find face masks you can make your own with material found at home. Make your own DIY mask from a handkerchief or t-shirt. We’ve rounded up the best neck gaiters to use as an alternative.
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