There’s been a lot of talk about face masks lately. Considering them, making them and buying them. Honestly, who would have thought wearing face masks would be highly encouraged in 2020? And that they’d be the most sought-after fashion accessory of this year?
But here we are. This pandemic has changed our world so quickly, in so many ways. And we need to learn and adapt quickly in order to beat it.
To mask or not to mask?
So, remember when masks weren’t deemed necessary for the general public? We were even discouraged from buying precious stocks of masks because doctors and nurses fighting on the frontlines needed them more. At that time, we didn’t know the extent to which people could spread COVID-19 before their symptoms appeared. Or that some people were asymptomatic, but could still spread the virus.
But as time has passed and they’ve learnt more about this virus (and more masks have been manufactured), wearing one is now strongly encouraged in our country and even recommended or required in other countries around the world.
We’ve learnt over time that face masks, together with other preventive measures such as frequent hand-washing and social distancing, does help slow the spread of this virus. Obviously, they won’t prevent the spread of the virus, but they will reduce the risk of spread.
We’ve also been reminded lately that people don’t like change and being told what to do, but we’re also beginning to realise that we need to learn to live with this virus until a vaccine is developed. And that might take a while. (Update: Yay for the vaccine!) So we need to continue to do the best we can until we know more and we can do better. #WearADamnMask
Disposable surgical/medical masks or reusable non-medical fabric masks?
While disposable face masks are often the most comfortable, effective and simple ones to wear, we all know that we shouldn’t lose sight of the fact that anything disposable isn’t good for the environment. And we should probably leave the surgical and N95 masks for the health care workers who face the most risk.
Enter the plethora of reusable masks. And I’m here for it.
Related: How to wear a non-medical fabric mask safely.
Here are my favourite reusable fabric masks
It’s worth noting that if you’re going to use a fabric mask, you should use one that has at least two, preferably three layers. Single-layer masks are not as effective.
A good place to start
Untouched World – Merino Helix starter pack, $69.00
I bought this starter pack a while back and I’d highly recommend it. The pack consists of the mask and 7 HELIX.iso filters (which are easy to insert). The mask has an organic cotton inner and a Mountainsilk™ outer, and with the filter, gives you all the protection you need from a mask. I do have to cut my filters to fit, but it’s worth it because this mask is super soft and comfortable.
A fashion statement
Annah Stretton – Women’s Face Mask – Pack of 3, $19.99
This company has initiated a BUY ONE, GIVE ONE offer. So for every limited-edition fabric face mask pack purchased, they’ll send a matching pack to a registered aged care facility around New Zealand. I love this! And the fabrics they use are beautiful.
Florals and patterns
Etsy – Three-layer cotton face mask, $10.64+
I recently ordered a couple of these masks from Etsy too. I decided on these because they’ve got three layers, a filter pocket to insert filters, a nose wire, adjustable earloops and a good selection of patterns. (Everything I want from a mask.) Also, there were lots of positive reviews about these masks. Update: I received my masks in a week (international shipping) which was brilliant. And I would definitely recommend these.
Simplicity
Casetify – Reusable Cloth Mask, US$15
This company also has an offer of Buy a Mask, Donate a Mask. Each mask comes packaged with two filters. According to their website, they’ve already donated 40,000 masks to Direct Relief. I love the look of these masks – they are simple, stylish and the earloops look incredibly comfortable. And they come in four classic colours – black, white, pink and navy.
Leopard print
Sephora Slip Re-usable mask, NZ$51
This reusable face covering is made of 100% mulberry silk on the outside and 100% cotton on the inside. It has an adjustable nose wire and adjustable elastic ear loops.
And don’t forget to stock up on filters for your masks. This is the size that will fit all of the masks that I’ve included here.
Face Mask Filters, Pack of 20, $11.45
Sidenote: I am a cautious person so I will wear a mask out in public even if the chance of transmission is low. Because my thinking is – why would I even take a chance when I can very easily protect myself and others? I realise that it might be overkill in places where you’re able to maintain a safe distance from other people. But if you’re on public transport or you might come into close contact with people – why take a risk? #WearADamnMask
Also, wearing a mask helps to reduce people’s anxiety about being outdoors or around other people. And if everyone wore one, then people would have more confidence when going out into the world.
You might also want to read: A little list to boost your mood and Beautiful sleepwear is my new obsession
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