Let's be honest here: I actually like wearing face masks. It was a bit of a pain during hot summer days but aside from that, they're great! It allows me to do my part to protect those around me. When I'm feeling a bit self-conscious of my skin due to breakouts, I don't have to worry about others seeing it. It saves me time in the mornings if I go out as I won't have to spend time applying makeup because no one is going to see the bottom half of my face. Also, SUN PROTECTION! SPF is still extremely important but the mask provides an extra layer of protection.
While the mask has its pros, there's also one major issue with them: the lack of proper disposal. I understand that COVID-19 has put a damper on the ability to be as sustainable and zero-waste as possible, but it never dampened our ability to properly throw away waste. Unfortunately, on top of the usual waste such as wrappers, food containers, bottles, etc, on the streets and beaches, we're now seeing used masks tossed on our streets and beaches.
So while I understand face masks are absolutely necessary, it's important to remember that we need to do our part to make sure we're properly disposing of them, especially if they're single-use. Aside from ensuring that we're properly disposing of single-use masks, there is another way to promote sustainability when it comes to masks: use a reusable face mask! Not only does it limit the amount of single-use masks on the streets, landfills, etc, but it's also more cost-effective! Initially, they are a small investment but since they're reusable, you won't have to constantly purchase new ones. Here are some sustainable masks that I recommend:
Price Range: $$
Looking for a sustainable option for your little one? Alex + Nova has you covered! Alex + Nova is a mom-owned company committed to creating products for children and adults using eco-friendly materials. This mask was ethically made in South Korea using 100% GOTS - Certified organic cotton. The mask comes in three different colors and is specifically designed for children ages 4 - 8 years old.
Price Range: $$
Cotopaxi makes the most of your purchase by selling face masks that are not only reusable but also reversible. Essentially, you'd be getting two masks for the price of one! These masks are made with two layers of 100% repurposed fabric leftover from other companies. Cotopaxi is a Certified B-Corporation. Additionally, Cotopaxi donates 1% of its annual revenue to non-profits committed to aiding poverty relief efforts and humanitarian efforts.
Price Range: $ - $$
Natural Home makes a large variety of masks in a variety of sizes. Perfect if you're trying to find one for everyone in your family without having to visit multiple sites! Natural Home's masks are GOTS Certified and made with a tightly bound weave. This tight weave allows the spaces to be under 3.5 microns. Additionally, Natural Home also sells masks infused with copper, which is known to stop and kill bacteria and pathogens.
Price Range: $$
Masks are great but have you used bandanas? I love how you can tie them to your liking but you can also use it as a hair or neck accessory! Granted, given the circumstances they're primarily used as a face covering. However, if and when you ever want to use a bandana to change things up a bit, they're available! These bandanas sold by Made Trade are created by different smaller brands. They're all made sustainably using materials like 100% organic, GOTS -certified cotton. Not to mention they come in a variety of beautiful colors and designs!
Price Range: $$
Amour Vert is a sustainable clothing brand based out of California. 97% of their pieces are made just a few miles from their San Francisco office. Amour Vert sells their masks in a bundle of three, each with different designs. All of their masks are made using deadstock fabric and made with multiple layers. Each mask purchased ensures an essential worker in the city of San Francisco also receives a mask.
Price Range: $$
United by Blue is a sustainable clothing brand committed to aiding in ocean clean-up efforts. They have a vast selection of masks, gaiters, and bandanas to use as protection against COVID! Their masks are made from deadstock fabric using a blend of either organic cotton, hemp, recycled polyester, and TENCEL. For each 3-pack of masks purchased, one mask will be donated to those experiencing homelessness in Philadelphia
Price Range: $$
If you're style is more dainty and bohemian, I'd suggest popping on over to Christy Dawn. Christy Dawn's collection is all about creating pieces that honor Mother Earth. Their pieces are made using either deadstock fabric or new organic cotton in production centers within Los Angeles, California and India. Each piece is literally made by hand with the intention of slowing down and creating something to be proud of.
Price Range: $$
Threads 4 Thought was founded in 2006 with the idea to create products that made a smaller impact on the environment, supported communities, and aided in changing and understanding ethical standards within the fashion industry. Their pieces are made in factories that promote safe working conditions, fair labor, and only use sustainable materials such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, and Lenzing modal. Their masks are perfect for the entire family as they come in a range of unisex styles. Additionally, when purchasing a mask, you can also choose to make a monetary contribution that would provide medical-grade masks to healthcare workers around the world.
Price Range: $ - $$
Tentree is a sustainable clothing and accessories brand that plants ten trees for every purchase made. They'll even send you an identification number so that you can see where your trees are planted. These masks are double layered and made from hemp, recycled polyester, spandex, and organic cotton.
Price Range: $$
Amy Kuschel is a sustainable brand based out of San Francisco that specializes in making ready to wear clothing, masks, and wedding dresses using sustainable materials. These masks from Amy are absolutely gorgeous and so fun! They are also made from 100% GOTS certified organic cotton and come in a variety of sizes to ensure the perfect fit!
Here's a list of a few more sustainable brands selling face masks:
Etsy (Make sure to search for sustainable or organic cotton)
Just recently discovered you on youtube. I love all the work you are doing. I am always trying to find ways to help the environment, and causes around the world. Wishing you all the best. Jenn