I want to ditch disposable face masks. Which comfy fabric mask should I buy to wear all day?

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Hi, Group Chat,

Since the pandemic began I’ve been wearing disposable face masks, but recently I can’t get over how they aren’t properly disposed of and are being littered everywhere. I really need to *finally* invest in a reusable one. What are some of your favorite fabric face masks that are super comfortable to wear all day?  Sincerely, Masked-Up But Confused

Dear Masked-Up, 

Julia Webb, who likes to match her face mask to her hoodie of the day, says… It took me a while to find a fabric face mask that was fitted and comfortable enough to wear every day, but ever since I found this adjustable style from The Odells, I haven’t looked back. These cotton face masks (available at Anthropologie) are only $10, but they check off every box I have when looking for a mask. They’re ridiculously soft, machine-washable, come in a bunch of cute patterns and have a slot for a filter if you want to go the extra mile.

But what makes these masks pretty much perfect IMO is the fact that they have drawstrings at the ears, so you can easily adjust the mask to your face. The ear loops never tug and, since the fabric is ribbed, you don’t have to constantly re-tighten and adjust the mask. Bottom line — ditch your disposable mask for this one.

Shop my pick: The Odells Adjustable Ear Loop Reusable Face Mask, $10

Credit: Anthropologie

Madison Alcedo, who is easily #influenced by celebs and Instagram, says… I recently saw Lucy Hale, Joe Jonas and a few other celebrities rocking Rothy’s face masks, and I knew I had to try them. They’re a step above your regular fabric face mask. If you’ve ever tried the company’s shoes, you’ll know they fit like a glove, and so do these masks, which are made out of Rothy’s 100 percent signature rPET knit thread that also happens to be insanely soft. The design is cut to perfectly fit your face and nose so there’s no air escaping, but they’re still completely comfortable for wearing while on the go.

But when my Libra tendencies took hold, and I couldn’t make a decision on which mask to buy, of course I had to try out more masks. I noticed on Instagram that my favorite reusable bag company Baggu also makes masks, which have now become part of my weekly mask rotation. The one thing that makes these masks stand apart as one of the best kinds I’ve tried yet is that there’s a little extra “pocket” of fabric that you pull up onto your nose, which helps the mask stay in place all day. Plus, you have to love the adjustable straps for comfort. Functionality aside, I bit the bullet to buy the Baggu masks when I saw the adorable prints to choose from.

Shop my picks:

Rothy’s The Mask 1.0 Two-Pack, $25

Baggu Fabric Mask Set Loop Pack of Three, $32

Credit: Rothy’s / Baggu

Laura Galvan, who wishes she was adopted by Kris Jenner, says… My go-to fabric face masks are by Skims. The seamless fabrication makes the masks totally breathable and comfortable for all-day wear. It comes in five different earth tones that are neutral enough to match any outfit. It’s also super easy to throw in the washing machine for reusable wear.

However, if you’re looking for an adjustable option, I have been loving this three-pack from Gap. My face is narrow so the option to play with sizing is key for a slimmer fit.

Shop my picks:

Skims Seamless Face Mask, $8

Gap Adult Contour Mask With Filter Pocket Three-Pack, $18

Credit: Skims / Gap

Ari Bines, who enjoys literally anything pink, says… To be honest, I’m not a face mask snob because I stay in my house most of the time. Personally, I don’t believe in spending more than $10 on one…at all. However, I’m a big fan of multi-packs of reusable face masks.

When I was on my staycation, I legit snagged this pink and black face mask pack from Claire’s. Yeah, I said it. Do what you will with your ears there, but the face masks are legit. I can breathe through the filter, it doesn’t pull or irritate the back of my ears, which I didn’t know was an issue until I started wearing disposable ones, and they’re all machine-washable. Plus, they’re just super cute…and pink.

Shop my pick: Claire’s Three Pack Cotton Black and Pink Polka Dot Face Masks, $19.99

Credit: Claire’s

Jamé Jackson, who genuinely detests anything touching her face, says… As someone who can’t physically stand things touching her face, the face mask situation is one that gets me every time. I have naturally sensitive skin that’s already heightened by allergies, stress, late nights with white wine, you know, the usual. When it comes to my face mask, it’s the last thing I’m thinking about because I genuinely hate wearing them. Seriously, I’ve had moments where I’ve run out of the house to my Uber, only to realize mid-run that I don’t have protection over my face. It happens.

I will say, moving to a cloth mask has significantly reduced my skin irritation, and I feel a little more like myself knowing that I don’t have itchy fabric making out with the lower part of my face every day. I’m pretty simple, but I love these face masks that you can buy in a variety of colors from Amazon. Are they simple? Yes. But are they effective? Heck yeah. I love that you can use different colors as well, just in case you want a bit more pizzazz to spruce up your fit.

Shop my pick: Craft & Soul Mattana Face Mask Cover Reusable Washable Comfortable Fabric Cloth Five-Pack, $14

Credit: Amazon

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