13 Face Masks We Actually Like to Wear
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Do you wear a face mask or don't you? Currently, the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) offers guidance that if you live in a community with medium or high levels of Covid-19, you should continue to wear a well-fitting mask or respirator (you can check local levels here). However, the Kraken variant is still spreading, and colds and the flu have continued to circulate. Local authorities can require mask wearing too.
A good face mask is a critical tool in helping slow the spread of Covid-19. We've been outfitting our kids and adapting our practices as new, science-based recommendations emerge. These are some of the masks, and masking practices, that I and other WIRED staff members are using. Keep a mask on, but remember to stay at home when possible, increase ventilation in indoor spaces, get tested regularly, and maintain at least a six-foot distance from others in public (preferably outdoors).
The materials-testing organization ASTM International also recently published the first-ever manufacturing standards on what constitutes a good face covering in a workplace setting. Based on these guidelines, the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health now recommends that if you're going into the office, you use a mask that meets the ASTM's minimum Workplace Performance Guidelines.
This is a list of manufacturers who have self-reported that their masks now meet the new workplace guidelines, based on their own testing. It's important to note here that these masks are intended for nonmedical settings, and if you are high-risk or protecting a high-risk individual, we still recommend an N95. The surgical masks below follow a separate ASTM standard. Generally speaking, reusable cloth masks will be less effective, but make sure any mask that you wear follows the recommended guidelines from the CDC, fits well, and is clean.
We've included some tips on mask care and choosing the best kind of mask straps at the end of this list. Be sure to check out our guide to the Best N95, KF94, and KN95 Face Masks, the Best Face Masks for Kids and How to Prevent and Treat Mascne.
Updated February 2023: We updated our guidance to reflect current information and checked prices and availability.
Photograph: Mark Rightmire/Getty ImagesFind a Free Mask
Call Your Local RetailerEarlier this year, the Biden administration started a program to distribute free, high-quality N95 masks. You can't order masks online, but pharmacy chains such as CVS, Walgreens, and Target are currently offering up to three N95 masks to walk-ins. If you urgently need a mask, you can call the location nearest you. You can also ask a sales associate, since they may be keeping stock behind the counter. For more tips, check out our How to Find a Free Face Mask guide. If you haven't gotten your bivalent booster shot yet, this is a good time to get that as well.
- Photograph: DemeTECH
An N95 Mask
DemeTech NIOSH-Approved N95 Face Mask (20-Pack)N95 masks are regulated by the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and the CDC has updated its mask recommendations to note that N95s offer the best protection. The agency also offers an online tool to help find the free masks closest to you.
This model is one of the CDC's approved masks, and several WIRED team members (including myself) wear and recommend it. Instead of ear loops, it has two comfortable head straps for long-term wear and a molded shape that holds it off the face for easier breathing and less dampness. However, it doesn't fold, which makes it harder to carry and store. And like most N95s at the moment, it fluctuates in and out of stock, so check back if it's sold out.
- Photograph: Sengtor Ltd
A KN95 Mask
KN95 Disposable Masks (60-Pack)KN95 and KN94 denote foreign manufacturing standards, but they usually indicate masks similar in efficacy to an N95. Just make sure you don't get a fake one. You can check whether a mask manufacturer has gotten an emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration, and the CDC has a few tips on how to spot a counterfeit face mask.
- Photograph: Sleepnet
Best Reusable Respirator
EnvomaskI purchased this mask on the recommendation of two colleagues on WIRED's science desk for my high-risk, vaccinated, and boosted parent. It's an investment, but worth it if you need to mask for long periods of time.
It's easy to assemble and replace the filters, and the gel padding on the nose is shockingly comfortable. You can choose either traditional head straps or quick ear loops. However, the boxes of replacement filters are also expensive, and my Mom reported many stares in the airport. The best mask is the one you'll use, and this might not be a great choice for people who are self-conscious.
- Photograph: Airpop
Best Mask for the Office
AirPop Light SE MaskMaybe you work in an office with people you trust but there's an occasional suspicious tickle in your throat. Even if you don't have Covid-19, a comfortable face mask can help you keep other people from getting sick. As I noted in our Best Kid Masks roundup, these have been independently certified by several international product-testing and quality-assurance companies, and they are an ASTM-certified Level 2.
Most importantly, they have a peaked shape that holds the mask off my face to make it easier to breathe. I wear glasses, and these masks have a comfortable, cushioned seal around the nose that absorbs moisture and prevents my glasses from fogging. Although the packaging says they're machine washable up to 10 times, I think they're too delicate for that treatment. I hand-wash ours and hang them up to dry.
- Photograph: Hygenix
Surgical Masks
Disposable 3-Ply Face Masks (50 Pack)Unfortunately, most disposable surgical masks do not offer a sufficient level of protection against airborne viruses, as these loose-fitting masks are designed at keeping out particulates and fluids. An N95 is much more effective because it forms a close seal around your nose and mouth.
However, if you need to keep extra masks in your car or donate masks to your kids' school, these are affordable and light. They have also been certified to one of the ASTM's three levels of efficacy. These are a Level 3, which means they've been tested to prove over 99 percent efficacy at keeping out bacteria and particulates and moderate efficacy at keeping out fluids. These are also great for outdoor workouts, as they're so light. They may get soaked by sweat and vapor, but at least you won't have to wash them afterward.
- Photograph: Happy Masks
Best for Kids
Happy Masks Pro SeriesMost of the mask mandates in schools have ended. However, your child may choose to continue masking on an occasional basis since, you know, everyone is sick right now. My 5-year-old and 8-year-old wear Happy Masks while at school and when traveling. The small size fits them well. These have a nanofiber filter and are a bit stiffer, with more structure than other masks, so they're held off my kids' faces, making it easier for them to breathe when they play. These are also the masks that I rotate with N95s.
However, it verily hurts my eyeballs to see these $24 masks getting stained, crushed, or lost. Read our guide on the Best Masks for Kids for more options.
- Photograph: Armbrust American
American-Made Disposable Masks
Armbrust Surgical MasksDisposable masks are affordable and easily found through large retailers. But it can be hard to independently verify their efficacy or provenance. And given worldwide shipping delays and stock shortages, it can be hard to predict when they'll arrive.
At the start of the pandemic, software entrepreneur Lloyd Armbrust pivoted to making masks. These are made in the US and have been independently tested to meet ASTM Level 3 certification. They're noticeably thicker and sturdier than the disposable surgical masks I've purchased on Amazon. The company also makes accessories and folding N95 masks that arrived much more promptly than others that I've purchased.
- Photograph: Graf Lantz
Most Durable Mask
Zenbu Cotton MaskThe Graf Lantz Zenbu masks were not originally one of my favorite picks. The amount of fabric seemed a nuisance to store and caused the mask to feel a little bulky on my face. But more and more people have bought these masks, including WIRED digital producer Kim Chua, and find them exceptional for their breathability and durability.
These masks have strategic darts that allow them to sit well off your face. They're also made from multiple layers of tightly woven organic cotton, a material that has been shown to be very efficient at filtering out nanoscale aerosols. Each mask also has a filter pocket for additional protection. For every mask sold, the company donates five meals to Feeding America, the largest domestic hunger-relief organization in the US.
- Photograph: Primal
An Accessorized Mask
Primal Wear Carbon Face Mask 3.0Primal's mask is comfortable, secure around my nose and mouth, and includes a filter to improve the level of protection. The NT3D filter is easy to wash, although you have to replace it after 10 washes (so get some extras). The patented plastic X-Frame insert holds it well off my face, and the neck strap makes the fit more comfortable and is convenient when I'm biking downtown for an errand.
- Photograph: Bilio
A Mask That Won’t Fog Up Glasses
Bilio MaskIn my bin of masks, this one is incredibly distinctive. It's knit to shape from recycled yarn. That means it's zero-waste—no cutting and sewing pieces of fabric with scraps that will have to be discarded—and it also stands off my face. This shape, combined with the fact that it points sharply over the bridge of my nose, means it doesn't make my glasses fog. It also passes both the light and the candle tests. It's a little harder to breathe while wearing it on walks or longer hikes, though.
Bilio uses proprietary SilverKiss antibacterial tech, though coronavirus is not a bacterium. If you're having a lot of trouble with mascne, then silver, copper oxide, or zinc oxide treatments like this might help (maybe), but you'd probably get more benefit from washing your mask more often and doing spot treatments.
- Photograph: Hedley & Bennett
A Very Comfortable Mask
Hedley & Bennett The Wake Up and Fight Mask 3-PackOver the past three years, mask makers have had ample opportunities to improve. We liked Hedley & Bennett's masks last year, and WIRED reviewer Matt Jancer and I both like the latest version (as does WIRED web producer Kim Chua).
Hedley & Bennett is a kitchenware company that pivoted from making aprons and chef coats to masks. It designed them in collaboration with Robert Cho, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon. They're sturdy, comfortable, and made from either cotton or a cotton-poly blend, with an adjustable nose wire. They come with a pocket for a removable filter and now offer adjustable straps and different strap designs. For every mask sold, the company donates a mask to frontline health care workers and farmworkers.
- Photograph: Timbuk2
A Mask 3-Pack
Timbuk2 Face Mask 3-PackWe love Timbuk2's messenger bags, and the company now makes masks in its San Francisco factory. WIRED senior editor Michael Calore likes the reusable masks, which come in two sizes. Use a flexible measuring tape to measure from ear to ear across the bridge of your nose to find the best fit.
The masks are made from jersey cotton and have a pocket for holding a filter. Unlike some of our other picks, which loop behind the ears, these tie around the head. It makes them a little harder to pop on and off but more comfortable for extended wear. This might be a good option if you need to wear your mask all day, every day.
Photograph: Rothy'sFace Masks to Avoid
Masks I Didn't LikeNo mask is perfect, and mask manufacturers are constantly refining their designs. Here are some face coverings that didn't make our list.
- Nathan Black Running Mask for $14: This mask is well made, comfortable, and fits well. Unfortunately, there's a big slit running through the middle of it, rendering it useless.
- Outerknown Recycled Mask 3-Pack for $30: These are well made and soft, but enormous. I passed these on to the biggest-headed colleagues I could find.
- Sanctuary Fashion PPE Mask 5-Pack for $28: I liked these masks early in the pandemic, but after six months of careful handwashing and line-drying, the fabric started to disintegrate.
- Courtyard LA Vintage Fabric Mask for $34: We recommended these masks earlier, but the higher price and long lead time are two significant strikes against the company. There are plenty of other luxurious, handmade, or recycled options available on Etsy or through other retailers.
Photograph: Wirestock/Getty ImagesShould You Double-Mask?
Are Two Masks Better Than One?While the vaccines are, indeed, very good, they're not a magic bullet. If N95s or their alternatives are not an option for you, you might want to consider double-masking.
In general, you should double-mask if doing so would improve the fit or thickness of the mask you already own. For example, if you only have two-layer masks, or if your disposable surgical mask has side gaps that a well-fitting cloth mask would pin down, then double up. However, it's far more effective to use one mask that fits correctly.
Check our guide to double-masking for tips on how to do so safely.
Photograph: AmazonOur Favorite Maskcessories
Straps, Lanyards, and MoreWe encourage you to look past the tempting sterilizing products, like lights, cases, and sprays. The underlying science of their use might be sound, but the average consumer is not likely to follow the rigorous protocols that hospitals and other institutions use to make sure their sterilizing technology works. The best way to make your mask more effective is to make it easier and more comfortable to wear.
- Double-sided tape or staples: If your surgical mask gaps at the top of your nose, you can tape it to your face to seal it. You can also fold down the sides of the mask and staple it shut to seal gaps at the side.
- Knotting your mask: Stuck with an ill-fitting surgical mask? Both double-masking and knotting and tucking a surgical medical mask significantly reduce exposure.
- Mask lanyards and head straps: Are you going to a concert or festival and need your mask to go on and off all day? I clip a mask lanyard onto my mask to wear it around my neck when not on my face so I don't have to stuff the mask into a pocket. If wearing a face mask with ear loops hurts your ears, you can also try attaching a head strap.
- Mask brackets: Mask brackets and mask fitters hold and contour simple cloth masks off your face. I find the ones I've tried to be more trouble than they're worth, but a few WIRED staffers like them.
- Anti-fog spray: Like many of us, product reviewer Louryn Strampe has to deal with annoying mask-glasses-foggery. She recommends Warby Parker's defogging lens cleaner. Cat Crap on your sunglasses also works pretty well. (Did I just write that?)
- Mask storage: If you're away from home and need to remove your mask, you may want to carry a designated pouch in your bag for dirty ones. We like reusable bags from Stasher or Baggu.
Photograph: Viktoriia Yanushevych/Getty ImagesMask Care Basics
Keep It Clean!Masks work by reducing the spread of droplets. That means if you remove your mask by the cloth covering, instead of the ear loops or ties, you're getting potentially infected droplets on your hands and spreading them around. Remove your mask carefully by the ear loops, wash it after use (or toss disposables), and wash your hands after removal.
The easiest way to wash your masks might be to buy a week's worth and toss them into the washing machine with regular detergent. But I've also been soaking mine in my bathroom sink with hot water and no-rinse detergent, then line-drying in the sun.
Don't get overenthusiastic with the adjustable straps either. The mask shouldn't be so tight that it restricts your breathing, and mask are not recommended for children under 2, or for anyone else who might have trouble getting one off their face.
Photograph: Getty ImagesWhat Kind of Straps Are Best?
Which Mask Is Right for Me?Should you get a mask with ear loops, adjustable bungees, or head ties? Which one you pick depends on the size and shape of your head and how long you're planning to wear the mask. For long periods, I prefer masks with head ties. It's also easier to remember a mask if you sling it on as you go out the door, like sunglasses or your car keys.
Head ties might work better for you if you have an unusually large or small head that falls outside the normal manufacturer specs. The ties can also feel more secure and put less strain on your fragile ear cartilage. If you see a mask you like with head ties but would prefer ear loops, you can improvise your own with a sliding knot.
A widely cited Duke University study suggests that neck gaiters (turtleneck-type masks) are less effective than other masks (though we might point out that they used a sample size of one). If your neck gaiter fits you well and covers your nose and mouth, it might work fine! But there are more comfortable and effective options available.
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