Times have changed, and fast! Last year, we never considered face masks as part of our ensemble when getting dressed for the day. Now they’re a must-have if you plan to go into a store, ride public transportation, or engage in any other activities within six feet of other people. In this new reality, we’re constantly on the lookout for the best face masks that are breathable, comfortable, and provide protection from viruses.
Since face masks are here to stay, why not make the most of it and get one (or a few!) for every day of the week? We’ve rounded up a selection of masks that are great for everyone — even mask-resistant husbands and fashion-conscious teenagers. (If you’re looking specifically for face masks for kids, we’ve got that, too — as well as our favorite stylish masks for women, and face masks for people who are hearing impaired.)
Wearing a mask protects you and everyone around you, and helps flatten the curve of this pandemic — so we might as well feel comfortable and look our best wearing them. Keep scrolling to see our picks for the best face masks for every member of your family!
What are the best face masks to prevent the spread of Covid-19?
LookHuman has a mind-bogglingly diverse selection of cloth face masks to suit every possible style. We love this Japanse-inspired print, which is available in several shades, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. From pretty patterns and solid colors, to animal faces, rainbows, and silly sayings, there is truly a mask for everyone here. Plus, you can choose from accordion-style pleated face masks, neck gaiters, or flat masks, depending which feels more comfortable to you. Happy shopping!
If you struggle with your glasses fogging up when you wear a mask, you need this Vida mask. It features a built-in metal nose piece, so it fits snugly on your face. This not only helps keep your glasses clear, it also keeps you from having to constantly touch your mask to adjust it. These are made with two layers of cotton and a filter between them, which should be changed every week. They fit adults and kids ages five and up, come in a variety of colors, and are super-affordable!
Does the thought of having to keep your mask on during an hours-long airplane trip make you break out into a cold sweat? Try this bamboo face mask, which frequent globetrotters swear by. Bamboo is one of the softest and most breathable fabrics around — and it’s also extremely sturdy, with natural hygienic properties that make it odor-resistant. Available in black, navy, pink, light green, and heather gray, it has comfortable, stretchy, adjustable ear loops and a nose wire to keep your glasses from fogging up. Comes in a child size, too!
People rave about this CDC-approved mask, which is made of specially-engineered nanotech fabric with holes too small for tiny microbes to pass through, yet big enough to allow easy air flow. Doctors, nurses, and other essential workers who have to wear masks for hours at a time are particularly fond of the Space Mask — and if they love it, we believe them! Available in a rainbow of solid colors, pastels (as pictured), black, white, beige, and a combo pack of stripes, dots, and checks.
It’s a good idea to have some disposable masks in your arsenal as well as some reusable cloth ones, and we think the Nano Air Mask is a great choice. These lightweight disposable masks filter out bacteria, allergens, mold, dust, smoke, and other fumes and allergens, all while keeping your face cool and dry underneath. It expands to cover the chin and up to the bridge of the nose, won’t fog up your glasses, and comes in a child size as well as the adult version shown here.
Who says a face mask can’t be glamorous? In addition to being the height of luxury, this silk mask is perfect for anyone with sensitive skin — the silk is gentle on your face, while a 100 percent cotton inner lining is breathable and hypoallergenic. An adjustable nose wire and ear straps ensure a snug fit, and it’s machine washable, so it’s practical, too. (Just don’t put it in the dryer — lay it flat to dry.) Comes in pink, black, or leopard print.
These sweet masks, made to fit kids ages 5-10, are made from recycled fabrics the Onzie uses to make their popular yoga clothing. That means they’re stretchy, comfortable, and breathable, as well as quick-drying. A pack of two comes in assorted cute patterns and colors. (You don’t get to choose, but they all look adorable to us.)
Does the man in your life need a mask that’s a little bit rugged, like him? This Sanctuary mask (which also features a nose wire, for a secure fit), comes in a pack with an assortment of masculine patterns: black camo, dark green camo, and a bandanna print (as seen on Ben Affleck!).
Whether they’re into Star Wars, superheroes, princesses, or Mickey and Minnie, these cloth face masks are sure to please the Disney fanatics in your life. They come in small, medium, and large, so little kids and big kids alike (and little kids in adult bodies) can enjoy all the adorable patterns.
Animal prints are a classic look — we feel sure that Audrey Hepburn would have sported a leopard-print face mask along with her little black dress. These LA Apparel masks come in a “cat-print pack” as well as several plaid patterns and many different solid colors, with contrasting trim. Your teenage daughters (and your inner teenager) will love these!
For people who rely on lip-reading to communicate, face masks present a huge problem. The solution? A face mask with a clear panel, so the speaker’s lips can be seen! If you have a loved one, colleague, neighbor, or other person in your life who has a hearing impairment, wearing one of these clear masks will let you both stay safe while still understanding each other.
These non-medical-grade reusable cloth masks tie behind your head, so you can adjust the fit in a way that’s most comfortable for you. They come in a variety of colors and prints, but you can’t choose which you get — so be ready for a fun surprise when they arrive!
Available in black, white, pink, or navy, these sleek masks are made with breathable cotton, fitted with a filter, and can be washed and worn over and over again. Casetify donated 10,000 masks to relief efforts when the pandemic began, and continues to support the cause by donating a mask for every mask it sells, so you can feel good about your purchase!
This article originally appeared on our sister site, Woman’s World.