Since the CDC advises everyone to wear a face mask when in contact with people who do not live in the same household, there’s been a lot of environmental concern with the use of surgical or single-use face masks.
Single-use face masks are causing another crisis of its own. In March, thousands of masks were found washed up on shore. Environmentalists have expressed great concern with regard to how unsustainable single-use masks are, especially when millions are being used across the globe to keep people safe. While single-use surgical face masks are designed for medical professionals, the public should be using reusable cloth face masks that can be washed.
Using sustainably sourced fabric is an environmentally-conscious way to ensure we’re not damaging the planet any further, especially as single-use face masks can take years to break down, and often end up harming wildlife.
Here, we’ve gathered where to buy sustainably and ethically sourced face masks so you can do your part in keeping yourself and others safe without damaging the environment.
FACE MASKS - BUY A SET, GIVE A SET - SET OF 5 MASKS
$30
These soft and sustainable face masks are comfortable while also keeping you safe. The brand Parachute usually focuses their efforts on bedding, rugs, and other home goods, but due to more recent events they’ve shifted to focus heavily on producing Oeko-Tex certified cotton face masks. For every set sold, they donate a set to those in need through GetUsPPE and Safe Place for Youth.
THREAD 4 THOUGHT SUSTAINABLE FACE MASK
$10
Using a wide selection of sustainable materials such as Lenzing Modal, which is sourced from beach trees without having to cut the tree down. These manufacturers are both Fair Trade USA certified and Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production certified.
ANTI-MICROBIAL PREVENTION FACE MASK 5-PACK
$20
Ethically made and classic in style, this face mask is built to last. The brand Buck Mason is campaigning to donate one million face masks in California, so by purchasing this mask, you’ll be donating a mask to someone, working toward their mission.
MINDFUL MASKS - ASSORTED 2 PACK
$24.00
Onzie usually produces yoga clothing and now they use the same material to create stretchy and quick-drying multi-layer face masks from up-cycled fabric.
ORGANIC COTTON FACE MASK (6-PACK)
$49.00
Eco-friendly mattress company, Naturepedic, now makes eco-friendly face masks in their factory in Ohio. Crafted with two layers of GOTS certified organic cotton, they feature adjustable straps behind the ears. These are being charged at cost.
