Face masks have become the new normal ever since Covid-19 arrived at our doorsteps. The virus that soon turned into a global pandemic made it impossible for people to go outdoors without wearing a face mask.
Since the threat of the virus is still looming over our heads, face masks are now considered to be one of the essential items during Covid-19.
Although many countries have made it mandatory for citizens to wear masks, people are still confused about choosing the right kind of face mask that would protect them from Covid-19, pollution and other contagious diseases.
Here are a few simple tips on how you can choose the right face mask and take the first step towards protecting yourself along with your family and friends.
1. Multiple Layers of Fabric
Experts have recommended the use of layered face masks as they give you a better chance of staying safe from the Covid-19 virus. These multi-layered face masks protect you by filtering out germs, bacteria and other dust particles.
2. Go for Ear Loops
This is an obvious tip that is often ignored by some people. Face masks that come with ear loops are more convenient for use than masks that need to be tied behind the head. Masks with elastic ear loops are an ideal option for people who need to frequently travel outdoors.
3. Proper Fit
During this period of Covid-19, wearing a simple face mask is not enough to keep yourself protected. The face mask should be easy to wear and should also offer a comfortable fit against the face. The whole purpose of wearing a mask is useless if it doesn’t fit your face properly and leaves gaps on the sides or the top. Therefore, ensure that the mask fits your face properly.
4. Easy Breathing
It is recommended that people wear face masks whenever they step outside. Thus, it is extremely important that you choose a face mask that does not cause difficulty in breathing. This will allow you to keep your masks on for a longer period and can also help you stay calm and relaxed. Choose a mask with breathable fabric.
5. Reusable
One of the most important tips that can help you choose the right face mask is whether it is reusable. Since we need to wear face masks daily, using a washable and reusable mask can help save a lot of money and time.
Different Types of Masks
1. Homemade Masks
During the initial weeks of the Covid-19 pandemic, there was a sudden rise in demand for face masks, hand sanitizers and other essential items. This is when people started making their own face masks at home with cloth and paper.
Homemade masks can be used by the public when stepping into a crowded area. These masks are cost-effective and can be made easily. They also need to be cleaned and washed thoroughly after every use.
2. Cloth Mask
Cloth masks are one of the best types of face masks for protection against pollution and other diseases. They can be easily made at home and are reusable as well. However, they must be washed after every use.
Experts have also advised people to not use the same cloth mask more than 3-4 times as it can increase the risk of getting infected with Covid-19.
3. Disposable Surgical Masks
These face masks can be used only once and have seen an increase in demand during the pandemic. The surgical disposable face masks are also a cheaper option as compared to the other face masks.
The WHO (World Health Organization) recommends this type of face mask to people suffering from underlying health conditions as well as individuals over 60 years of age.
4. N-95 Masks
Although experts have suggested healthcare workers should be the ones to use these N-95 masks, others can also wear them while going to crowded places. These masks are usually disposable and cannot be used more than once. Some may also be reusable.
While these are the different types of masks available, we have compiled a list of the best face masks that can help you make a better decision.
1. Disposable Face Mask with Elastic Ear Loops – Seniority
Seniority’s 3 Ply Disposable Face Mask is designed to limit the spread of germs and promote proper hygiene. The practical construction of the 3-ply pollution mask ensures maximum comfort and can be worn for extended hours even during hot and humid conditions. The face mask has three fabric layers, and the three-layer filtration offers cleaner air to breathe and prevents transmission of foreign bodies. It comes with super soft elastic ear loops making it easy and comfortable to wear.
Features
- Made using soft fabric to provide maximum comfort
- Triple layer construction for maximum safety
- Features elastic ear loops to ensure perfect fit
2. Double Layered Cloth Face Masks - Micon Impex
Micon Impex Cotton Face Masks are designed to offer protection against dust, odor, pollen, and toxins. The cotton face mask helps to limit the spread of disease-causing germs, pollutants. It has soft cotton ear loops making it easy and comfortable to wear.
Features
- Prevents spread of bacteria and pollutants
- Contains 2 layers of soft absorbent fabric
- Soft and adjustable ear loops for extra comfort
3. Reusable Protective Cloth Face Mask (Grey) - Be Safe
Be Safe’s cotton reusable mask features a convenient flat-fold design for easy storage. Unlike ordinary masks, it has enough space around the mouth to make breathing easier. It has soft elastic ear loops which make sure that the mask stays put and ensures an effective seal. The mask is very comfortable and lightweight and is made of high-quality cotton material, making it skin-friendly and durable.
Features
- Made with 100% cotton
- Mask is reusable up to 30 gentle hand washes
- Soft, elastic ear loops for extra comfort
4. 2.0 Strike N95 Mask Unisex - Airific
2.0 Strike N95 Mask Unisex by Airific provides utmost comfort and is ideal for long durations. This mask provides the highest protection with its unique nanotechnology filter to filter particles down to 0.1 micron. It is available in different sizes.
Features
- Provides protection from airborne particles
- Protects from dust, germs and other contaminants
- Uses nanotechnology filter in the middle layer
5. Reusable Face Mask - O2 Curve
Keep yourself safe from harmful germs and bacteria with this Reusable Face Mask. It offers protection from different airborne contaminants and provides the best filtration. Also, this reusable face mask is comfortable to wear.
Features
- Has a highly breathable filter membrane
- Comes with ultra-soft ear loops
- Comfortable and lightweight design
6. N95 Face Mask with Filtering Facepiece Respirators (FFR) - (5 Free Karam Safety Goggle) - Venus
Designed to filter out harmful agents in the air, this N95 face mask by Venus has a breathing valve with multiple layers of protection. It has an aluminum nose clip which offers a comfortable fit and adjustable ear loops which ensure that it stays put.
Features
- Made of latex free textile elastic
- Skin friendly and durable
- 95% filtration efficiency
7. 3-Ply Surgical Protective Face Mask - Safent
The Safent 3 Ply Surgicals masks have 3 layers for filtration of the air and can be disposed off after single use. The masks have elastic ear loops and adjustable nose pin for perfect fitting.
Features
- 98% High efficiency filtration rate
- Has 3 layers for filtration
- Malleable and adjustable nose pin
8. N95 Protective Face Mask - Safent
The Safent N95 mask has 5 protective layers that help filter out pollutants from the air before you breathe it in. It has low resistance to breathing and can also be reused.
Features
- Can help filter out PM 2.5 particles
- High Particle Filtration Efficiency of > 95% 0.26 microns
- Has 5 layers for filtration
9. Hypashield W95 Reusable Outdoor Protection Mask - Wildcraft
Hypashield W95 Reusable Outdoor Protection Mask by Wildcraft is engineered with a 6-layer triple particle filtration system which makes it your perfect outdoor companion. It is comfortable to wear and comes with a convenient flat fold design for easy storage.
Features
- Wider face coverage for maximum protection
- Controls moisture and filters small particles
- Convenient flat-fold design for easy storage
