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Now that I’ve had a chance to try out both of the cloth masks that I recently purchased, I have so much more clarity on what I want out of a mask. Additionally, I did some reading on the CDC and MIT Medical websites to find out what their recommendations are for purchasing cloth masks. 

Between the Crafty Classix mask and the Night mask, I preferred the Night one. However, keep in mind this is not an apples to apples comparison since they are made of different materials. The Crafty Classix mask I bought is made out of a polyester/spandex blend fabric and the Night mask is made out of 100% mulberry silk. 

The Night mask has plastic sliders on the elastic ear loops, which allows you to adjust the tightness. This helps ensure that your mask stays in place and forms a good seal around your mouth and nose. The other feature I like about the Night mask is the adjustable metal nose piece. It helps to hold the mask in place and prevents it from sliding down when you are moving or talking. Another bonus feature of this mask is that it comes with a pocket where you can insert a disposable filter for added protection. (PS. If you’re looking to achieve a similar look, but want a lower price option. Check out their satin masks, which are $20.)

(Note: While my friend is the founder/owner of the brand Night, I purchased this mask on my own. My review reflects my own thoughts and opinions.)

I still do like my Crafty Classix mask and wear it, however there are two changes I’d make to it. Then it would be perfect. First, I wish the lining on the inside of the mask was cotton or another natural fiber material because the current fabric feels like a bathing suit and clings a lot to your mouth. Additionally, since the fabric used for the lining is slippery it causes the mask to slide down when I wear it, especially if I’m talking to someone one. If the mask had a silicone strip on the inside of the mask where it covers the nose this would help combat that issue. The drawbacks aside, I love the shape of the mask. Through this process I realized I prefer contour style masks over accordion fold ones. I’m still going to wear this mask because it fits my face well, but I don’t plan to order more. 

Here are the CDC’s recommendations for selecting a good cloth mask:

• They DO NOT recommend masks that have an exhalation valve or vent because droplets could be transmitted through the valve/vent opening

• The mask should snuggly fit the sides of your face and not have any gaps

• The mask should have two or more layers of breathable fabric 

• The mask should cover your mouth and nose and be secure under your chin

In summary, when shopping for a mask the key things to evaluate are:

1. Fabric type – Is the mask made of a synthetic fabric or a natural fiber or a blend? According to the MIT Medical website, cotton (100% woven) outperforms most synthetic fabrics (e.g. polyester, rayon) in filtering experiments. Additionally, MIT Medical recommends selecting a mask that’s made with a fabric having a tight weave. So if you hold the fabric up to a light, you shouldn’t be able to see the outline of the individual threads.

2. Mask style – Is the mask an accordion fold style or a contour style? Personally, I find that contour masks form a better seal and have less gapping.

3. Adjustable nose wire – Does the mask allow for a better fit with an adjustable nose wire?

4. Adjustable sliders on ear loops – Does the mask have plastic or metal sliders on the ear loops that allow you to adjust the fit? I’ve bought masks with and without the sliders so the need for them can vary based on the fit of the mask.

5. Filter pocket – Does the mask have a pocket where you can insert a disposable filter for added protection? Again, I’ve bought masks with and without filter pockets so it’s not a deal breaker for me.

MASKS I WANT TO TRY & READER RECOMMENDATIONS

• Vida Contour Style Mask ($10)

• Liberty of London Fabric Contour Style Mask ($12.50)

• Baacal Contour Style Mask ($15)

• Mint & Thrift Contour and Accordion Style Face Masks ($15)

• Sanctuary Accordion Fold Style Masks with Metal Nose Piece 5-Pack ($28)

• Kitsch Accordion Fold Style Masks 3-Pack ($12)

• Outdoor Research Contour Style Mask ($20)

• Athleta Accordion Fold Style Masks 5-Pack ($30)

• Best Mask Boutique Contour Style Mask ($6)

• Love, Vi Contour Style Mask ($10)