Your New Go-Everywhere Accessory: Face Masks to Get (and Give)

Before the cononavirus pandemic, travelers were more likely to see face masks throughout Asia, where people wore them as a matter of course for general health and safety. In our new socially-distant reality, face masks have become the new essential in the "keys, phone, wallet" protocol we do before leaving the house. It's just this simple: To prevent the spread of Covid-19, the CDC recommends we all wear a non-medical mask when we're in public places — for ourselves and for each other. Because the folded napkin and the flimsy bandana you've been using will get tired soon (hint: they have already), here are companies making reusable, washable, sustainable, affordable, and — dare we say it? — attractive masks. Many will also give you the option to donate masks to essential workers and communities in need, making your purchase responsible and generous.

Christy Dawn

The team behind LA's beloved sustainable, ethically-made women's dresses are making non-medical grade masks from dead stock fabrics in their downtown factory. For every five-pack purchased, five are donated to people in need. You can choose from assorted prints (stripes, florals, linen) with kids sizes as well. $30 per 5-pack.

Reformation

The sustainable company's Millions of Masks initiative lets you purchase five cotton masks for yourself and donate five to healthcare workers, or buy 250 in bulk for your company. An assorted five-pack costs $25, with prints sourced from dead stock fabric from their LA factory.

Greylin

Greylin reusable masks made with soft cotton in solid and striped prints have an opening for a disposable filter. For each purchase, the brand will match a donation to homeless shelters and essential workers in the downtown LA area. $13 each.

KES

Yes, you're sensing a theme in the companies we picked: KES is also selling masks with a one-to-one mission: For every purchase, the company will donate a mask to a healthcare worker. Masks are made from sustainable cotton and soft silk, with adjustable ties and space to add a filter. $12 each.

Dolan

How about a mask with an inspiring message like "I will be fearless today" and "Have courage, be kind" sewn on the inside? Buy one for you, and they'll give one to an essential and frontline worker. $10 each.

Vida

Vida has donated more than half a million meals to vulnerable communities by donating ten percent of their profits to the SF Marin County and NYC food banks. Masks are made from pure cotton and come with a carbon filter. $10 each.

Avocado Green Mattress

This popular sustainable bedding company is now producing GOTS® organic certified reusable face masks using two layers of 100 percent organic cotton canvas and two tie straps. They do not use elastic or plastic and are sold at cost, not for profit. $36 for an eight-pack.

We may be socially isolated, but we can still feel connected to each other through acts of care. Find out ways to give back to those in need during the coronavirus.