Mask Up! : A Mask Review

As we get ready to leave the house, I am thinking of how to keep ourselves and the people we might encounter safe. Wearing a mask has proven to reduce exposure according to the CDC and the CA COVID-19 website. In the state of California, where we live, wearing a mask is mandatory in all public spaces. Wearing a mask has become more than a passing trend. It will be part of our new “normal” collective lives.

“Wear it with pride and wear it with love.”

In accepting this new “normal”, I have been looking at and trying different masks for myself and for the kids. I rate masks on a 4 star system that I have completely made up and measures the following….

1. Fit – is large enough to cover and does it cover without slipping of puckering on the sides
2. Comfort – can you potentially wear this all day? Is it too hot or annoying?
3. Protection – is the material thick enough? Does it have an option for a filter? And finally,
4. Affordability- Are they affordable that you can get one for the whole family and not have to take out a small loan? I think around $15 is a great price…

The following are the masks that I have tried and have received my 4 stars…

KID MASKS

For the kids, I was looking for masks that had their favorite characters or fun prints. The idea is, if they are excited about what’s on it, they will be more likely to wear it. With a 3 and 4 year old, you can never tell how they will receive things. After I explained to them, the reason wearing a mask was important and told them that wearing one was the only way they’d be able to leave the house for a while, they understood. When they saw their new masks, they were SO EXCITED to wear them. We practiced wearing them just going on walks at first so they could get used to the sensation of it. Now, when we go anywhere, even just a car ride, they grab their masks on the way out!

Collectivelee – Etsy shop

What I loved most about these masks is the cute lace detail on the top of the princess masks! They are super cute, they fit perfectly on little kids. Plus, they come with a nose wire to adjust the fit on little noses. These are Zoe’s favorite masks to wear!

Simply Plain Fancy – Etsy shop

These masks are so incredibly well made! The prints are so crazy cute, I had a hard time deciding which to buy! At $15 (or less!) you don’t have to! Just get them all! The fabric is large and covers from the top of the nose to well under the chin. They have a slot for an optional filter and nose wire. PLUS, all of them have the cutest hidden Mickey!!! As if that wasn’t enough each mask comes with adorable Mickey ear savers!  ** I recommend these for bigger kids and adult sizes.

 

ADULT MASKS

There are so many styles and shops that sell great adult masks. These are a couple that I have tried and can recommend…

Folk Project

These masks are beautifully HAND EMBROIDERED by artisans in Chiapas Mexico. Your purchase helps support the indigenous women that make them. Plus, when you buy one Folk Project donates one to underserved communities. These are also just $15!!

 

Carrot Fever – Etsy shop

These masks have fun colors and patterns and the fit is great, and they’re reversible! You can wear it on both sides! *Just remember to wash between wears or switching sides.

House of Esperanza – Blog

I have to add my favorite DIY’er Monica Chavez at House of Esperanza. This boss lady is a true inspiration. She makes beautiful masks for only a 10$ donation to cover material costs of making the masks. Kids masks are FREE. Her re-stocks are highly sought not just because she is making masks so accessible to everyone, but because her masks are simply beautiful. Chavez uses subtle prints and colors that are calm and soothing. Exactly what the world needs in these times. Visit her site and keep an eye out for re-stocks! you may want to set up a reminder on your phone – like me!!!

 

Wearing a mask gives you an opportunity to show off your personality! Take power in that! Whatever mask you choose, know that wearing a mask is the most caring thing you can do for those around you when going out. Wear it with pride and wear it with love. Your actions have the power to save lives. Let’s slow the spread, and remember to wear a mask when going out, wash our hands often, and continue to practice social distancing. We are in this together!