Face masks are the new normal, so it’s important to find one that is comfortable, functional and, for those that care about their appearance, stylish! I’ve tried out a collection of non-medical masks and have written my thoughts below. I am not in the medical profession, so I can not comment on the protection offered. I am writing about how they fit and feel, for the everyday person.
In England, it is now mandatory to wear face masks in certain settings, unless you have an exemption, such as a medical condition. Please check out the Government’s advice here if you are unsure. So, for your protection and for those around you, wearing a mask is the right thing to do. I have tried out a few different masks over the past few months and here are my thoughts…
Medisure Nuisance Masks
Way back in February, when there was only a small amount of information about a new respiratory virus that was sweeping the world, I was about to get on an airplane. Being diligent and cautious, I went to my local pharmacy to get a mask and this is what they had – medisure. Despite the name, they are primarily designed for use whilst decorating or cleaning; they are not medical grade masks.
The pack comes with 6 masks. Each have a thin metal bar on the nose, so that you can pinch to adjust the fit. I used these a fair bit to start with, but mainly because they were all I had. They are light and easy to use. However, they are flimsy. The strap, which is stapled down and is designed to go around the back of your head, easily pulls off. This happened a few times as I was putting the mask on, so I just tied the strap to the mask, having made a small hole. (Not the best). The metal bar became loose and prodded me in the face on a couple of occasions. They are not great for the environment as they are disposable, but useful as a last resort, as a grab and go item.
Cost – £10 for 6 (from my local pharmacy in London)
Type – Disposable
Final Thoughts – Good for grab and go, but unreliable. Gaps, due to bad fit, means particles can probably get in quite easily.
My Score – 1/5
Leyland Disposable Face Mask – Pack of 10
These were another impulse purchase, for a convenient and easy to use face mask. These are light and easy to use. They loop around your ears and have a malleable top bar, that you can pinch to fit around your nose, preventing unnecessary air gaps. The blueish mouth area stretches to fit around your mouth, making them more comfortable than the medisure.
Cost – £7.99 for 10 from Leyland
Type – Disposable
Final Thoughts – Good for grab and go, but disposable, so often seen littered in the streets.
My Score – 2/5
AOBETAK Cotton Face Mask
I bought these ones for a bit of fun. This pack comes with five different mouth patterns. They loop around the ear, are easy to use and can be washed for multiple use. They are soft, but as they are not ridged around the nose, they are not fully sealed. I wore these quite a bit when we were first released from lockdown, but if you’re feeling self-conscious and don’t want a pattern showing, wearing them the other way around so that the patten is on the inside is fine if clean, but can be uncomfortable as the decal feels odd against your mouth.
Cost – £6.99 for 5 from Amazon
Type – Washable
Final Thoughts – Fun, but as they are black in colour, they can get hot in the sun.
My Score – 3/5
Plumo Organic Linen Mask
I ordered this Plumo face mask from their website and received it within a few days. Not only does this mask feel soft and comfortable, the company donate to the NHS. “For every mask sold, Plümo is supporting NHS staff and volunteers caring for Covid-19 patients by donating to NHS charities.” 👏
The loop straps come fairly loose and are designed to be knotted to fit your face. The linen fabric allows you to breathe without feeling restricted. This mask is light and simple in design, so can be worn with anything!
Cost – £10 plus shipping from Plumo
Type – Washable
Final Thoughts – Super soft, organic linen. Charitable company. Simple design.
My Score – 5/5
UYN Community Mask
I was given this one as a gift and I love it. The extra fabric around the mouth gives you lots of room to breathe without feeling claustrophobic. It is easy to use; it loops around the ears, is washable and is lightweight so you can roll it up in your purse, ready to put on when needed. These masks were designed with an active lifestyle in mind; they are durable, thermo-regulating and moisture repellant. Plus, this colour is lovely.
Cost – £14.99 plus shipping from Ellis-Brigham
Type – Washable
Final Thoughts – Soft and comfortable. Comes in different sizes. (I have the medium)
My Score – 5/5
Afrocentric805 from Etsy, reviewed by Eliza
I spotted these on Etsy as I wasn’t happy with the mask I had (it was a tie one and really fiddly to do up, especially when I had a kid on my shoulders) and it was such a joy when they arrived. Etsy is such a fantastic platform and I love supporting independent sellers where I can and Sheilla was great at keeping me updating with my order. The masks are comfy, well made and most importantly, they fit really snugly, especially around the nose. The material is quite stiff so they keep their shape, yet also folds up well. It’ll be interesting to see how it is after washing. They also come in several sizes (I got the small).
Word of warning: I almost got a little sidetracked when looking at her shop – there are so many lovely things!
Cost – £7 each (shipping £3) from Afrocentric805
Type – Reusable
Final Thoughts – Beautifully made, well-fitted and they fold up nicely so I can keep one down my bra (I keep a lot of things in my bra!)
My Score – 5/5
BeKindBeKindred Antibacterial face covering, reviewed by Eliza
I saw a friend wearing one of these and knew that I was going to get some too. A big win for me is that proceeds goes towards NHS Charities Together, plus the rainbow is super cute. They’re really soft and squishy and have guidelines for usage with them. For example, they’re recommended for 30 uses only, are made from antibacterial 5 thread polyamide yarn and give clear washing guidelines. Because they’re so stretchy, they’re also a great fit. I bought a pack of 3 and gave one to my husband also – I like that they’re unisex.
Cost – £19 for a pack of 3, shipping is extra, from BeKindBeKindred
Type – Reusable
Final Thoughts – Super soft and rolls up really small for easy storage (down your bra or in your bag). I love that it helps the NHS Together charities too.
My Score – 4.5/5
Final Thoughts
Whilst we all may be feeling a little like an extra in ‘Mad Max’ right now, I believe it is beneficial for you and those around you, to wear a mask when in a confined public space. Wearing a mask can help to prevent the spread of Coronavirus. It can also remind you to stop touching your face. It’s incredible the amount of times we touch our faces! Check out one BBC article here.
There is so much variety now, compared to the availability at the start of lockdown. So many companies have started creating, designing and selling face masks, many of which are now washable. I add Dettol antibacterial laundry cleanser to my wash.
Although there are inevitably annoyances with masks, such as they can get hot and they often ride up a little, pressing your eyes closed, the benefits massively outweigh the disadvantages.
If you don’t like what’s on offer, or don’t want to spend the money, why not try and make your own. There are many tutorials online that show you how this can be easily done.
Get the facts about Coronavirus here
*Health Advice: If you believe you have Coronavirus, please self isolate and contact your doctor for advice.
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