Since the UK government made it compulsory to wear face masks in both shops [1] and on all forms of public transport [2], we've been stocking up on cloth face masks. [3] Now that we've gotten a few, we're starting to figure out what we like and what feels comfortable to us. We know that, generally, we like masks with elastic hooks over the ears [4] because they're comfortable. We've also tried masks with fun prints, but we really like plain black options.
Black goes with everything, and it's just more streamlined than colourful prints. They're also great options for kids and family members who may be feeling reluctant to get on board with wearing a mask. You won't regret having a few of these on hand. Just keep reading to shop our picks.
Luneia Cotton Face Mask
British-born beauty brand Luneia launched during lockdown (we're in love with the Radiance Ritual Mask [6]), 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 [7] (£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 [8] for £17.
The Avant Guard The Marrakech Aerosilver Luxe Mask
As comfortable as it is chic, The Avant Guard The Marrakech Aerosilver Luxe Mask [9] (£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.
Superdrug Reusable Fabric Face Coverings
Superdrug Reusable Fabric Face Coverings [10] (£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.
Gresham Blake Black Face Mask
Spotted onLaura Whitmore's Instagram feed [11], the Gresham Blake Bees Face Mask [12] (£10) is made from three layers of 100% cotton face with a long-lasting filter, adjustable nose wire, and a extended piece of fabric to go over your chin. 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, but there are a variety of fun prints and colours to choose from ... including plain black.
Koral Shiny Netz Face Mask
Made from breathable, antimicrobial-treated fabric, the Koral Shiny Netz Face Mask [13] (£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.
Scotch & Soda Reusable Face Mask
The Scotch & Soda Reusable Face Mask [14] (£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.
Adidas Face Cover Large 3-Pack
The Adidas Face Cover Large 3-Pack [15] (£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 [16] (£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.
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 [17] (£2.50) come in a set of two and are washable.
Hype Adult Black Face Mask Set
If you're looking for basic black face coverings, the Hype Adult Black Face Mask Set [18] (£25 for set of 3) is an ideal choice.
Aftermask Cloth Face Mask
Designed and handmade in London, the Aftermask Cloth Face Mask [19] (£8) come in two sizes (S/M and M/L) and includes a pocket to slip filters inside, which are sold separately.
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 [20] (£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!).
Pucker's The Turtleneck Mask
"Any colour, so long as it's black", says Pucker Masks and they're bang on. The Turtleneck Mask [21] (£17) is fabulous in its simplicity — and it's got plenty of great features too. 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.