32 REUSABLE FABRIC FACE MASKS FOR EVERY NEED

The fabric mask market has come a long way since April, even, when the CDC first recommended that we wear masks in public to fight the spread of coronavirus. Back then, most apparel brands had only just started making masks, which were quickly selling out — or, and rightfully so, were focused on getting them out to essential workers.

As many states continue to see spikes in Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations, wearing those masks is especially important. Luckily, there are now an abundance of options for every aesthetic, need and budget. Want something lightweight for outdoor summer activities? You got it. Want one made of pure Mulberry silk that feels amazing against your skin? No problem. Want the sequin-covered mask that J.Lo wore to a Black Lives Matter protest? It’s yours. Likewise, if you just want a simple, inexpensive, no-frills pack of five or 10 cotton masks, you can easily get that, too. 

That said, there are some safety factors worth taking into consideration as you choose your next mask. The reason for wearing a mask, according to the CDC, is to “help prevent respiratory droplets from traveling into the air and onto other people when the person wearing the cloth face covering coughs, sneezes, talks or raises their voice.” This is particularly important in situations where social distancing is difficult to maintain. And because Covid-19 can be spread by people without symptoms, that applies to everyone — even those who aren’t sick. 

There’s also been some research done about what features make for a good mask. An important factor is fabric: Experts told NPR to look for a tight weave that doesn’t let too much light through when you hold the mask up to one — 100% cotton is evidently a good option because the fibers create “roadblocks” to incoming particles. Masks made from synthetics apparently didn’t test as well.