5 Washable Face Mask Brands You Should Know
As face masks are here to stay for at least a few more months (or years, who knows?!), it’s time to take a look at the models that offer you the best safety while being eco-friendly at the same time. Here are five brands that are creating cloth face masks that you might like.
If you’re like me, you’ve probably postponed spending your money on a good face mask when this whole thing started. First, because I am a minimalist. Second, I wasn’t willing to spend a lot of money on something that I wouldn’t give much use.
Now I know that I was being very naive and that those cloth face masks that my aunt have kindly made for me, out of fabric leftovers, aren’t the most comfortable or reliable ones. Especially if I have to wear these for a couple of hours.
During the past few months, I’ve purchased some reusable face masks and tested these myself - when it comes to wearability and comfort, of course. There were a few misses along the way. But the good thing is that I can now give you my honest advice, so you don’t have to go through the same thing and spend too much money.
Here are 5 brands that are creating reliable reusable face masks:
The first community mask tested against COVID. Photo credit: MO
MO
MO, formerly known as Modalfa, is responsible for creating the first textile mask capable of inactivating the virus that causes COVID-19. Impressive, right?
It costs 10 euros and is available in two standard sizes: one for adults and one for kids.
The polymer used is biodegradable and certified by Bluesign, Oeko-Tex and REACH. It maintains its protective properties up to 50 washes.
The pros: Unlike many of the models I’ve tried during the past months, this face mask is really comfortable to wear. It covers most of my face, has an adjustable clip in the nose area and the elastic bands are different than others I’ve seen before. Really, really comfortable to wear.
The cons: There is just one size available and if you have a small face, it might not look like a bit too much. But hey, the goal is to keep yourself safe from the virus… not looking super cute when you’re out grocery shopping.
Available at MO’s website
8,5/10
Photo credit: Fisura
Fisura
If you want to protect yourself (and others) while adding a touch of colour (or personality) to your face… Fisura’s face masks are just perfect for you.
While this certified face mask model may look similar to the one from MO, it isn’t exactly the same. Fisura’s model is a bit smaller and the textile is more breathable. Also, it’s shorter in the nose area - which is a plus for me. In case you’re wondering, it comes with an adjustable nose clip.
Just like MO’s model, it maintains its protective properties up to 50 washes.
The pros: being able to look (and feel cute) while protecting yourself and helping the environment at the same time. Also, the price tag (9,95 euros).
The cons: not all models come with the same round elastic band (like the one on disposable face masks), that happens to be the most comfortable for me. Some models come with the kind of elastic band that is usually seen on community masks (flat, instead of round) - which I happen to find uncomfortable after using it for more than an hour. So pay attention to this before purchasing your face mask.
Available at Fisura’s website, FNAC and The Singular Olivia
9/10
Photo credit: Maskk
Maskk
Made in Portugal, this slightly different face mask model will definitely grab your attention. Besides its certifications, it includes a built-in mask holder that happens to be quite handy when you need to remove your mask for a few minutes.
Available in two sizes (S and M), this certified social mask might be just what you’ve been looking for to keep yourself safe and others.
Besides the patterned models, Maskk face masks are available in several plain colours. In case you’re looking for something more subtil.
The pros: its several certifications and the built-in holder.
The cons: a bit thicker than Mo’s and Fisura’s face mask models.
Available at Maskk’s website.
7,5/10
This is me. Wearing a eseOese’s reusable face mask during on a hot summer day in Granada.
eseOese
This Spanish brand has been creating conscious and proximity pieces for the past couple of years. And they haven’t let us down when it comes to cloth community masks.
Lighter, easier to breathe and to carry for hours on end. Also, these happen to be quite comfortable around the ears.
Available in two formats (S for children and adults with smaller faces, M for adults) and in different patterns, you’ll probably find one that suits your needs.
There’s a plus: if you feel like the mask is too large for you or if you don’t want to hold in around your ears, you can buy a mask strap (also made from cloth) that will make the experience a bit more comfortable for you.
The pros: the light material. Great for Summer days.
The cons: doesn’t have as many certifications as the models from the previous brands I’ve just mentioned.
Available at eseOese’s website
6/10
Friking
Looking for an community mask with a punch of humour? Look no further.
Friking has the most original models in the market. And there’s a plus: the elastic bands go on the back of your head, not around your ears.
Which is great, especially if you need to use the mask for a large period of time. On the other hand, if you’re in a social situation where you’ll need to remove and put your mask back on constantly… this mask might not be the right fit for you.
It has two elastic bands that go on the back of your head. Which happens to be quite uncomfortable to put/remove if you wear glasses or have long hair.
The pros: the possibility to add a punch of personality to our faces.
The cons: removing the face mask is a bit more uncomfortable than with any of the other models I’ve just mentioned.
5,5/10
