According to recent advice, wearing a fabric face mask while you’re out and about could help slow the spread of coronavirus.
If you show symptoms you must isolate with your household for 14 days, but it is now recommended to wear face coverings when in enclosed spaces such as public transport and shops.
Face masks are believed to be a good way to reduce the spread of the virus from asymptomatic carriers.
So while wearing a mask may not prevent you catching it, it could stop you spreading it to others. In other words we can all protect each other by wearing a mask.
The fashion world has been quick to respond to the current crisis, and not just with fundraising T-shirts.
Numerous brands have pitched in to create fabric face masks. Most are not-for-profit and many are donating money raised from sales to charities, which are desperately in need of funds during this time.
The increased supply of face masks from fashion brands also means that stocks of PPE for key workers can remain at steady levels.
Make sure your mask fits snugly over your mouth and nose, and it’s very important to wash it after each use in hot soapy water or at 60 degrees in a washing machine.
And remember, this is not a replacement for social distancing, washing hands regularly or avoiding touching your face.
If you want to make your own mask, then the best fabric is tightly woven 100% cotton.
Or you can purchase a readymade mask from our round-up – leaving surgical masks to the frontline workers who need them most.
Knitwear brand Brora is producing Liberty-print face masks made from two layers of cotton. These masks are reusable but should be hand washed in soapy water rather than put in the machine. Half from each mask will go to NHS Charities Together, the rest covers VAT, fabric, lining, sewing and transport.
Mask, brora.co.uk
Vistaprint offers a great range of designs for adults and children. The masks are washable and use a replacement filter system, allowing for longer-term use. For every reusable mask sold, the
company is giving 10% to local communities impacted by the pandemic.
Adult mask; child’s mask,
vistaprint.co.uk
London Fashion Week designer Edeline Lee has switched to producing face masks. The barrier masks are made from a fluid-resistant, breathable fabric and fit closely to the face with no gaps. Each purchase will cover the materials and costs for 80 masks to be donated to frontline workers. The company aims to
donate 20,000 masks during lockdown.
Pack of three masks, edelinelee.com
This Plumo mask is made from four layers of organic linen, a fabric with natural antibacterial properties. It can be washed at up to 90 degrees, and for every one sold the company is donating to Masks for NHS Heroes.
Mask, plumo.com
Available in a pack
of three, these brightly coloured machine-washable masks from Hype will definitely let
people know you’re coming. There are loads of designs to choose
from too.
Pack of three masks, justhype.co.uk
Independent fashion label Paisie is making
masks at cost price, using leftover fabric cuts-off from previous collections. The masks feature wiring around the nose to ensure a good fit and are made from two layers, meaning you can insert your own filter.
Mask, paisie.com