Face Masks and PPE Are Likely To Become The New Normal In Today’s Society

Most of us never thought we’d live in times where PPE would become an accessory. However, as we change the way we play and work, face masks and personal protective equipment are likely to become commonplace.

Wearing a face mask is responsible - you can help protect yourself and others. That doesn’t mean, though, that you can’t have fun with it! Simply begin to look at face masks as a way to express yourself while showing respect for others around you. Here are our top picks for face masks that are practical, eco-friendly and an essential addition to your wardrobe!

1. Naturepedic

Protect Your Family With Proper Face Mask

Type of Face Mask | Cotton Face Mask
Benefits | GOTS Organic, Reusable, Socially Responsible, Eco-Friendly, Made in the USA, Washable
Price | 6-pack $49

Naturepedic is another company that’s chosen to give back to the global community. The mattress company has begun to produce quality masks to protect you against airborne disease and to protect others around you.

This simple mask is made from GOTS certified organic cotton and will help you to “catch your sneeze” while you’re socially distancing from others. Unlike the Avocado mask, this PPE relies on ear loops. However, the loops are adjustable and able to fit any adult, and even some children.

Our Naturepedic review wouldn’t be complete without mention of the company’s give back initiatives. Naturepedic is a member of 1% for the Planet – the company donates a portion of its profits to groups like Women’s Voices for the Earth and the Ohio Environmental Council, just when the planet needs it the most.

Naturepedic Coupon Code | Use code NEWYEAR required for 15% OFF all Mattress - while supplies last.

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2. United by Blue

Type of Face Mask | Cotton, Hemp and Polyester Face Mask
Benefits | Give Back, CDC Guidelines, Hemp. Organic Cotton and Recycled Polyester, Sustainable, Responsibly Made, Fair Trade
Price | 3-pack $20

The next face mask on our list is our United by Blue review. We love that this mask is made from recycled and salvaged materials, reducing the footprint of the mask while incorporating all the CDC directed components to keep you and your family safe.

The masks are available in sets of three. For each purchase of these three masks, one mask will be donated to the homeless population of Philadelphia through the program Chosen 300. Furthermore, your hemp, cotton and polyester masks are made in China under fair trade and responsible conditions.

The United by Blue masks are one size fits all, but minor adjustments may need to be made for your smaller family members. Kids can use these masks if you simply clip the ear loops in the back to fit snugly.

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3. Coalatree

Type of Face Mask | Cotton Face Mask
Benefits | Donated Fabric, bluesign Organic Cotton, Hand Washable, Give Back
Price | $10

Coalatree is one of the brightest up and coming eco-friendly and socially responsible retailers on the internet. The company features a catalog of everything you need to relax, from hammocks and blankets to hoodies and tees. For our Coalatree review, of course, we’re highlighting their new organic cotton face masks.

These masks are made from donated fabric, so the color you receive may vary from the mask your neighbor receives. That said, each mask is crafted from bluesign organic cotton and is hand washable – it’s recommended you wash your mask after every two hours of use.

Coalatree gives back to the global community through programs like Adopt a Native Elder and Blankets for the Homeless. Your purchase of this mask – or any other product from Coalatree – helps to support social and environmental initiatives like these.

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4. Luxor Linens

Type of Face Mask | Cotton Face Mask
Benefits | Give Back, Made in the USA, Machine Washable, Reusable, CDC Guidelines, Responsibly Sourced, Ethically Produced
Price | 4 for $45

Luxor Linens products can be found in some of the most high-end hotels and luxury resorts in the world. The bedding and other luxury items like robes and slippers are crafted with care from quality, sustainable cotton in fair trade factories.

Luxor Linens has begun to create masks that adhere to CDC guidelines. Created from the same luxurious cottons as the company’s bedsheets, these face masks are machine washable, breathable and super soft.

As we researched for our Luxor Linens review, we learned that your purchase of this set will donate a mask to an organization in need. Furthermore, Luxor regularly gives to local families and even homeless shelters, so you can rest assured that your purchase of these masks is keeping others safe and healthy as well as yourself.

Luxor Linens Coupon Code | Use CITRUSSLEEP25 for an extra 25% OFF your purchase

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5. Malia Designs

Type of Face Mask | Cotton Face Mask
Benefits | Give Back, Socially Responsible, Sustainable, Eco Friendly
Price | 5-pack for $30

The next face mask on our list is actually a pack of five that gives back to social causes in so many ways. Our Malia Designs review features a five pack of masks that are made from gorgeous cotton fabrics and, of course, are CDC compliant. However, unlike companies we’ve reviewed thus far, Malia Designs will donate five masks for every five pack purchased. That means that you can help five other people to protect others from coronavirus and other diseases.

Malia Designs also partners with Damnok Toek – this organization supports the eradication of human trafficking in Cambodia. Child abuse, substance abuse, child trafficking, and lack of education are just a few of the issues Malia Designs and Damnok Toek are combatting.

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6. Ten Tree

Type of Face Mask | Organic Cotton / Recycled Hemp
Benefits | Give Back, Machine Washable, Mitigates Insect-Borne Illness
Price | $20 (3 Pack)

Ten Tree is one of the top names in outdoor gear and so it simply makes sense that the company would have created this bandana we’ve chosen for our Ten Tree review. This bandana measures 22 inches and is designed to protect you from flying and crawling insects that may carry disease. Mosquitoes, ticks and flies are all deterred when you don this bandana by American company Ten Tree.

In addition to insect-borne illness, however, the CDC has recommended that cloth face coverings be worn to prevent the spread of community illness. If you are a carrier for the flu, diseases like COVID-19 or any other illness, wearing a face covering may help protect those around you from illness. You can find instructions on how to use this bandana at the CDC website.

Whether you’re headed downtown to meet with friends or out to the woods for a hike, this Ten Tree Reusable Face Mask will keep you covered.

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7. Cloroom

Type of Face Mask | Washable Silk Face Mask
Benefits | Give Back, Mulberry Silk, Washable, Reusable, Recycled Materials
Price | $29

You’ve likely heard the brand Cloroom mentioned in conversations about outdoor gear and clothing. Now, however, you’re likely to hear the company mentioned in discussion of face masks and PPE. The face mask we’ve selected for our Cloroom review is just one example of this.

The Face Mask wasn’t originally intended for use as protective wear in the medical sense. The mask is designed to protect you and your family from others when you’re outdoors. Indoors and in close proximity to others, however, this mask can help protect those around you from airborne particles that may spread disease. Of course, you can still use your mask in the sun, too! Use this garment to protect your face and neck from the elements while you play outside.

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8. Sock Fancy

Type of Face Mask | Cotton/Polyester Triple Layer Mask
Benefits | Give Back, Eco Friendly, Recyclable Components, Biodegradable Components, Machine and Hand Washable
Price | $12 for Adult, $9 for Kids’

If you’re looking to outfit the whole family with face masks they’ll actually want to wear, our Sock Fancy review has a solution for you. These colorful – even fashionable – masks are affordable and even your kids won’t mind putting them on for a trip out for essentials.

In addition to letting you stock up on masks to wear, Sock Fancy will also donate a mask to a front line worker who needs one. In fact, Sock Fancy will accept donation suggestions if you know a caregiver or other person who may be in need.

Your masks are made from biodegradable cotton and recyclable polyester and are compliant with CDC guidelines for the mitigation of disease. Remember that none of the masks on this list are medical grade and they will not replace the N95 mask necessary to protect healthcare worker.

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9. Sanctuary

Type of Face Mask | Pink Camo Face Mask
Benefits | Give Back, Eco-Conscious, Socially Responsible, Machine Washable
Price | $24

The last face mask on our list the mask we’ve chosen to feature in our Sanctuary review. We love this little Assorted GEO PPE Face Mask – it offers you a way to express your style and protect others from the spread of germs and potential disease.

Your face mask is designed in the USA from machine washable fabrics and is compliant with CDC standards. What we love about this mask is that you can outfit yourself with matching leggings, sports bra and yoga shorts, all also available from Sanctuary.

With each Sanctuary face mask purchase, Sanctuary will provide masks to organizations in need including hospitals, schools, etc. While you shop for your masks and matching workout gear, be sure to check out the company’s other products, including their sustainable collection.

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Wear PPE and Face Masks To Protect Yourself and Others For A Better World

When you have to wear PPE to protect yourself and others, there’s no reason you can’t have a little fun with it. These eco-friendly and socially responsible face masks won’t serve as a substitute for professional grade N95 masks, but the mask you choose can help keep you and those around you safe.

Jessica Lauren is Founder, contributing Author and Owner of Citrus Sleep. Citrus Sleep is an online publication that highlights brands, sleep products, women’s fashion, subscription services and ideas creating positive social change and promoting a healthy lifestyle. After spending nearly a decade working in PR and marketing for several brands and startups, Jessica knows what truly drives conversions, sold-out launches and guest posts.

Follow Jessica at @jessicalaurencs | Jessica Lauren