As of 23rd September, it is compulsory to to wear face masks in shops and supermarkets [1] in the UK; customers in indoor hospitality will also have to wear face coverings, except while seated at a table to eat or drink. This is in addition to the rules announced on 4 June, making it mandatory to wear face coverings on public transport [2] in the UK, including buses, trains, aircrafts, ferries, and when in a ride-for-hire service like Uber or Addison Lee. These precautions were put in place to prevent the spread of the virus by those who are infected with it and are asymptomatic.
For many before the pandemic, face masks were not a part of their at-home collection. Luckily, a selection of retailers have now made protective face coverings available for purchase. For those who do not have masks already or prefer not to make a face mask [3], buying one is an easy alternative.
In order to properly wear a face mask [4], it must fit closely against the face, be secured with ties or ear loops, include more than one layer of fabric, allow for breathing, and be able to be washed without getting damaged. It's worth noting that while these cloth face coverings are not medical-grade masks like the N95 respirators and surgical masks, which are being reserved for healthcare workers, they are still useful to put on when out in public. Wearing a cloth mask will not ensure protection against ingesting droplets, but it's a precautionary safety measure worth taking.
Ahead is a curated list of face masks that are available to buy in-store and online in the UK, including options from our favourite retailers like Boots, Superdrug, and Marks & Spencer, as well as companies and brands that are doing their part by donating proceeds and masks to charities and hospitals to help those working against the virus. If you don't already have a mask [5] or need another one for yourself or a loved one, shop these picks now and help stop the spread of the coronavirus.
— Additional reporting by Kara Kia and Ange Law
100% Cotton Face Mask With Ear Loops
This 100% Cotton Face Mask [7] (£5 each) is made with two layers of cotton and has comfortable elastic ear loops, making it simple to put on and take off.
Aftermask Cloth Face Mask
Designed and handmade in London, the Aftermask Cloth Face Mask [8] (£8) come in two sizes (S/M and M/L) and includes a pocket to slip filters inside, which are sold separately.
Gresham Blake Bees Face Mask
Spotted onLaura Whitmore's Instagram feed [9], the Gresham Blake Bees Face Mask [10] (£10) is made from three layers of 100% cotton face with a long-lasting filter and adjustable nose wire. When designing the shape and fit of the mask, Blake looked to the UK and WHO guidelines, as well as his own experience wearing masks for long hours whilst on a motorbike trip to Vietnam in 2019. Whitmore wore the bee print mask, shown here, but there are a variety of fun prints to choose from.
Burberry Face Masks
In addition to looking incredibly chic, if you purchase one of the Burberry Face Masks [11], 20% of each mask sale goes to the Burberry Foundation COVID-19 Community Fund (established this April by The Burberry Foundation), which continues to provide PPE as well as assistance to food banks and healthcare charities around the world to help during the pandemic.
The reusable cotton face masks come in two prints — the brand's iconic vintage check in beige and pale blue — and are made from pieces of revalued fabric and coated with an antimicrobial layer. While not available to purchase quite yet, you can currently sign up for a notification on Burberry's website to let you know when you can order one.
Little Mistress x Kindred Rainbow "Thank You NHS" Face Mask
After the success of Kindred's charity T-shirt [12] (which launched in April), it's teamed up with Little Mistress to sell three-packs of Little Mistress x Kindred Rainbow "Thank You NHS" Face Masks [13] (£15 for a pack of three). The masks are made with two layers of cloth made from antibacterial polyamide yard and elasticated to fit your face comfortably.
Kindred is a retail company and app that gives buyers cash back on their everyday purchases, then offers the option to keep the cash back or donate it to a local charity. For every pack of masks sold, Kindred will donate a pack of six IRR3 3 Ply medical masks to front-line care workers.
Helmstedt Safety Mask
Helmstedt is upcycling leftover fabric from its Spring 2020 collection to create these Safety Masks [14] (£30) in bright prints and colours. Profits from a purchase of the mask go to WHO's COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund [15].
Cushions & Creations Face Mask
The Cushions & Creations Face Masks [16] (£8 each) are made in Sheperds Bush by Larysa Kucak, a seamstress who recently got into sewing interior goods. Her three-layer, reusable face masks come in a wide variety of prints and a bunch of sizes — three for kids, two for women, and two for men — all of which she's listed detailed measurements for to ensure you get one with a nice snug fit.
The Avant Guard The Marrakech Aerosilver Luxe Mask
As comfortable as it is chic, The Avant Guard The Marrakech Aerosilver Luxe Mask [17] (£40) contains 50% pure silver fibre yarns and an antimicrobial finish. Additionally, for every mask sold, the brand donates one surgical mask to Doctors Without Borders.
Luneia Cotton Face Mask
British-born beauty brand Luneia launched during lockdown (we're in love with the Radiance Ritual Mask [18]), but instead of coming out with a new skincare product, the company shifted gears and launched reusable, skin-friendly cotton face masks that have quickly flown off the digital shelves. Handmade in London, the Luneia Cotton Face Mask [19] (£10) is made using dead-stock cotton fabric, which prevents the scraps from going to a landfill. But that's not the only way the brand doing good — Luneia is also donating £1 to the NHS from each sale.
And while you can by the mask on its own, we love that the brand has also launched co-ordinating mask-and-scrunchie sets [20] for £17.
Marks & Spencer 5 Pack Reusable & Adjustable Adult Face Coverings
After selling out of their first batch of face masks, Marks & Spencer relaunched its 5 Pack Reusable & Adjustable Adult Face Coverings [21] (£9.50) in August. The masks, which are made of two layers of 100% BCI cotton, feature elastic ear loops with toggles that allow you to adjust the fit, and an antibacterial coating that promises to last up to 40 washes. For adults, there are two different colour assortments, with a few more options available for kids [22].
Oliver Bonas Reusable Printed Fabric Face Coverings
The Oliver Bonas Reusable Printed Fabric Face Coverings [23] (£16 for 3-pack) feature a pocket in the back to insert your own filter. With every purchase, £4 is donated to the UK Youth charity [24].
Pucker's Fruit Twist Face Mask
Pucker's Fruit Twist Face Mask [25] (£17) is everything you want from a face mask: it's cute, handmade in England, and has lots of nifty features to keep you safe. The ergonomic design fits perfectly on the face thanks to the adjustable nose bridge, smart fitted chin, and soft elastic ear straps. The mask is triple-layered and made from 100 percent breathable cotton, which makes it comfortable to wear in any temperature. It also comes with a universal filter pocket, which is compatible with most particulate filters, according to the company. In addition to this, Pucker donates 25 percent of all profits to three charities: Crisis, Refuge, and Mind.
Banana-Print Cotton Face Mask
This Banana-Print Cotton Face Mask [26] (£11) is made with two layers of 100-percent cotton fabric. It features small elastic hooks that go behind the ears, and it comes in adult and kid sizes. Note, this seller only sells a limited number every day, so if you miss out, try the next day!
Boden Nonmedical Face Coverings
We adore these printed Boden Face Coverings [27] (£20 for a pack of three) that come in a range of patterns and vibrant colours, so you can easily team them with your workout outfit of choice. The masks themselves are made up of three layers: two layers of jersey fabric and a non-woven filter bonded to one of the jersey layers.
Boots x Great British Designer Reusable Face Coverings
Boots tapped some of the top UK-based fashion designers to create printed face coverings you can buy both online and in-store. This 3-pack of Great British Designer Reusable Face Coverings [28] (£15) features designs by Julien Macdonald, RIXO, andn Liam Hodges.
Koral Shiny Netz Face Mask
Made from breathable, antimicrobial-treated fabric, the Koral Shiny Netz Face Mask [29] (£15) is comfortable enough to be worn for long periods of time, whether you're walking, jogging, or hiking. We love the shiny black fabric, but it also comes in matte midnight blue or leopard print.
Onzie Mindful Masks
Sold in a pack of two, the Onzie Mindful Masks [30] (£22) are made form upcycled yoga fabrics, which means they're flexible, comfortable, and dry fairly quickly after being washed. All profits from the masks will be donated to NHS Charities Together to support the NHS
Needle & Thread Floral Face Covering
Not only do we adore the gorgeous prints of the Needle & Thread Floral Face Covering [31] (£15 each), but we also love the fact that the brand is donating 50% of the profits from these masks to mothers2mothers (m2m) [32],to support the charitable organisation's COVID-19 emergency appeal.
Amaia London Reusable Cotton Face Mask
The Duchess of Cambridge wore the adult version of the Amaia London Reusable Cotton Face Mask [33] (£12) when she visited Baby Basics's Sheffield centre in early August (they also come in children's sizes). Catherine wore the "Pepper" Liberty print (shown here), which is unsurprisingly sold out, but there are several patterns still available on the brand's website with the ability to preorder the out-of-stock designs.
The double layer, 100% cotton masks — which are designed in London and made in Spain — feature filter pocket, and include 5 filter refills. Not only that, but 30% of the proceeds will go to NHS Charities Together.
Superdrug Reusable Fabric Face Coverings
Superdrug Reusable Fabric Face Coverings [34] (£3) feature three-layered fabric technology, which is water-repellent and certified antibacterial with a biocide finishing. The middle layer has a 3D interlock fabric, which promises to significantly reduce particle transfer, while also being breathable. The stretchy material moulds to the wearers face for maximum protection and comfort. The masks come in three simple colours: black, pink, and white.
Gingerlily Mulberry Silk Face Mask
Made from three layers of 100-percent mulberry silk, the Gingerlily Mulberry Silk Face Mask [35] (£25) is not only stylish, but gentle to skin, too, as the silk reduces the friction against your skin (which may mean fewer maskne breakouts). Available in three sophisticated, muted shades: Blush (shown here), Sand, and Charcoal.
Screen & Shield Washable #SASMask
Scottish-based brand Screen & Shield doesn't use materials or manufacturers needed by the medical community to create its line of Screen & Shield Washable #SASMask [36] (£10, originally £12), which are made of three layers: cotton (which goes against your face), a centra polypropylene layer (that acts as a shield for respiratory droplets), and an outer polyester layer. A flexible nose wire and contoured shape make these masks great for glasses wearers, as they won't fog up your lenses. Available in a wide variety of patterns and prints (and kids sizes!).
Baukjen Non Medical Face Masks
Solid in packs of two and available in four different print combinations, the Baukjen Non Medical Face Masks [37] (£10) check off a lot of boxes for us. They're sustainable, made with leftover fabric and cut-offs from the company's family-run factories in Portugal, made with two layers of cotton, and feature a flexible nose strip to help them conform to your face shape.
Luisa Cerano Mask Set with Theme Print
The Luisa Cerano Mask Set with Theme Print [38] (£22), which includes two printed face coverings, are made from 100% cotton and feature a flexible nose wire.
Reiss Navy Reusable Face Mask
The Reiss Navy Reusable Face Mask [39] (£20) features not only an flexible nose wire, but adjustable ear straps, too.
Assorted Upcycled Tana Lawn Cotton Face Coverings
Liberty's design team in Italy is now making Assorted Upcycled Tana Lawn Cotton Face Coverings [40] (£40 for set of 5), which are made from three specially-treated layers of fabric and come in a wide variety of the iconic Liberty prints. and for everyone 5-pack sold, one covering is donated to a charity.
100% Cotton, Liberty Print Face Mask
A popular item on Etsy is the Liberty Print Face Mask [41] (£9), which is made from 100% cotton and available in five different prints.
Scotch & Soda Reusable Face Mask
The Scotch & Soda Reusable Face Mask [42] (£10) comes with not only a nose strip, but filter pockets and a convenient matching bag to store it in. Available in three sizes: small, medium , and large.
Falke 2-Pack Face Mask
The Falke 2-Pack Face Mask [43] (£15) come in a variety of sizes and shades, which has made it a popular item. Many of the shades are currently sold out.
Adidas Face Cover Large 3-Pack
The Adidas Face Cover Large 3-Pack [44] (£13) is a washable, reusable non-medical graded face mask made from two layers of recycled polyester. £2 from every pack of face covers sold goes to Save The Children's Global Coronavirus Response Fund.
Slip Face Coverings
Face coverings just got a whole lot more luxurious, thanks to Slip. These new masks are made from Mulberry silk (like all of the Slip products) with a cotton interior, featuring adjustable ear straps and nose wire to ensure it fits each person perfectly. The Slip Face Coverings [45] (£40) — which are available in black, pink, leopard, and pinks with red lips — are re-useable and should be washed after every use. It's also important to note that they are non-medical masks and should not be used as personal protective equipment by healthcare professional or in a clinical environment.
Los Angeles Apparel Face Mask Pack
The Los Angeles Apparel Face Mask Pack [46] (£25) comes in one size with three mask, and proceeds help the company continue to donate the face masks they're creating to those in need. You'll find 22 different colour options on the brand's site, though many might already be sold out. Unique features include an adjustable nose that forms to your face, as well as adjustable straps for comfort.
The Vampire's Wife Silk Face Mask
At the start of lockdown, Susie Cave launched two versions of The Vampire's Wife Silk Face Mask [47] (£38) that sold out within a day. Since then, she's launched multiple versions, including various floral prints and a navy mask that is currently available for pre-order (shown here). The masks are made of 100 percent silk with a ruffled edge and come with a matching silk drawstring bag. Although the masks are not medically certified, 100 percent of proceeds are being donated to The World Health Organisation (WHO) COVID-Solidarity Response Fund.
Reformation 5X Masks
The sustainable brand Reformation launched its Millions of Masks [48] initiative, and on the site you can decide between donating masks, purchasing a pack of non-medical grade masks, or these 5 Assorted Reusable Masks [49] (£28), though they make take one-to-two weeks to ship due to high demand.
Mango Reusable Homologated Mask
The Mango Reusable Homologated Mask [50] (£13) features adjustable ear straps and promises 90% filtration efficiency, according to the company.
Mango Reusable Homologated Mask
Mango Reusable Homologated Mask [51] (£13)
Asda Black Washable Unisex Face Coverings
For all those wondering, yes, Asda has come out with reusable face masks in white and black. The Asda Black Washable Unisex Face Coverings [52] (£2.50) come in a set of two and are washable.
Valle & Vik Silk Mask
Valle & Vik Silk Mask [53] (£35)
Erdem Face Mask Meadow Teal
Erdem Face Mask Meadow Teal [54] (£45)
Hype Adult Black Face Mask Set
If you're looking for basic black face coverings, the Hype Adult Black Face Mask Set [55] (£25 for set of 3) is an ideal choice.
Alice + Olivia Staceface Protective Mask
The Alice + Olivia Staceface Protective Mask [56] (£9), expected to ship at the end of April, features Stacey Bendet's iconic quirky print. With the purchase of one, A+O donates one mask to the medical community as part of its #MaskTogether initiative [57].
Protective Face Masks
Etsy user SewYouMonograms is making these reusable Protective Face Masks [58] (£9 each) for an affordable price. Each mask is made with 100-percent cotton, and you can choose between having ties or elastic for the behind-the-ear fastening.