6 shopping editors share the fabric face masks they wear daily

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Bye bye, buyer’s remorse. In The Essentials Edit, In The Know’s editors and creators share the favorite basic items they can’t live without. From treasured white tees to favorite face moisturizers, these are the tried-and-true products our editors love — and the items you need to know.

Fabric face masks have become an essential accessory within the past few months. And while buying an effective mask should always be top priority, it’s also understandable to want to look dang cute while slowing the spread. 

Thankfully, basically every clothing brand under the sun is now selling fabric face masks. There are almost too many options to sift through to find the perfect mask that prioritizes both style and safety. If you need a little help navigating these endless options, In The Know’s shopping editors have researched and tested several fabric face masks, discovering the picks they actually use in everyday life along the way.

The CDC recommends wearing face masks to reduce the spread of COVID-19, and many businesses have mandated customers wear masks when entering their spaces. Face masks are considered a “preventative measure,” like hand washing and disinfecting. Though wearing a face mask doesn’t guarantee you won’t contract COVID-19, it does help protect those around you if you are asymptomatic, and also serves as a helpful reminder to keep your hands away from your nose and mouth.

Check out these fabric face mask recommendations from our shopping editors to help adhere to CDC guidelines. Stay safe, stylish and socially distanced.

Shop: KES Brave Mask Set, $27

Credit: KES

“When face masks first were recommended by the CDC, I scooped up whatever I could find online to abide by guidelines. But after the demand calmed a bit, I was able to shop for something that spoke to my style and values. These silk masks by KES are sustainably made of biodegradable materials. Being vegan, I normally wouldn’t buy silk products, but these masks are made from waste fabric and a plant-based supply chain, which fits with my values. The masks even come with an easily-accessible filter pocket. I love the lime mask for a pop of color, but also have the black mask for when I want to be a little more subtle.” — Katie Dupere, Commerce Editor

Shop: Kitsch Face Masks, $12.99

Credit: Ulta

“For the last few months, I have been living in these cotton face masks by Kitsch. They are light, super breathable and cute! I have received so many compliments about them while just walking on the streets of NYC. Plus, they come in a pack of three! I started with the blush set, and just last week, I bought the neutral set. I highly recommend purchasing them!” — Nikki Kessler, Producer

Shop: Skims Fabric Face Masks, $8

Credit: Skims

“My go-to fabric face masks is 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.” — Laura Galvan, Style Editor

Shop: Disposable Face Masks (Set of 50), $17.99

Credit: Amazon

“In order to stay safe in the most uncompromising way and not risk bringing any germs into my living space, I prefer wearing disposable face masks. Every time I step outside of my apartment to run an errand, go for a walk or to even grab a package from the mailman, I put one of these on and dispose of it in the trash as soon as I return to my apartment and before I wash my hands. These come in a box of 50 and are pretty cheap, which I love. I believe something that’s such a necessity doesn’t have to be a splurge. Remember, folks: Wear a mask!”Moriba Cummings, Commerce Editor

Shop: Old Navy Fabric Face Masks (Set of 10), $25

“I waited weeks for Old Navy’s masks to come back in stock because I wanted simple, solid-colored masks, and they do not disappoint. These masks comfortably fit my face, and you can tell they’re 100 percent cotton because they’re super soft and aren’t hot to wear. The retailer has more than 20 variety packs to choose from that come in packs in five or 10, which is super helpful if you’re swapping out your mask each day. I’ve been laying my masks flat to dry after washing, but they’re also dryer-friendly. For 10 masks, it’s $25, making them $2.50 each, which is a win-win to me for cute, comfortable masks.” — Madison Alcedo, Senior Home Goods Writer

Shop: Claire’s Cotton Black And Pink Polka Dot Face Masks (Set Of 3), $24.99

Credit: Claire’s

“I had a staycation and I only brought one disposable mask like an idiot. Weirdly enough, I found and snagged this cute three-pack of cotton face masks from none other than Claire’s. Yes, I know. I was just as shocked as you. But I find it to be super breathable. It’s nothing super fancy, but it comes with a filter and the nose bridge shaping gives me full-face coverage, so I actually cover my nose unlike some people. Both me and my sister use our Claire’s masks when we take trips to the beauty supply store, like we did here.” — Ari Bines, Commerce Editor

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