Practically overnight, face masks have become an inseparable part of our daily lives, and as it became clear that the need for masks wasn’t going away anytime soon, people began to trade in their paper masks for more durable and reusable cloth models. 

But with the threat of Coronavirus still looming over us, it’s in your best interest to invest in at least one face mask that feels comfortable for long periods of time and protects you as much as possible from infection. Here’s what you should look for when shopping for a face mask.

What Not to Wear

As the necessity for wearing a mask extends into a marathon, people are forced to find a balance between comfort, accessibility, and effectiveness. But there are quite a few masks on the market that aren’t effective at all—essentially rooting those other variables moot altogether. After all, what’s the point of wearing a mask that doesn’t protect you?

Many people assume that traditional winter face coverings like balaclavas and scarves will protect you, but they’re typically too porous to be effective. You don’t need to ditch this winter gear, but they should go over your mask. Similarly, masks that are clearly porous—like ones covered in mesh—or those with visible valves and vents may look impressive, but they aren’t going to meaningfully protect you against a virus.

Look For Breathable Materials

A suitably protective face mask is going to include at least two layers of materials, but making sure that you can breathe comfortably through your mask is just as important as making sure it will protect you. Tightly woven fabric will ensure a high level of protection while offering enough flexibility to breathe comfortably. 

By contrast, synthetic plastics like vinyl are too thick to be used as the primary material in a mask, but you might want to consider masks that offer a third layer of synthetic filter material. It will lend an extra level of protection without hindering your ability to breathe comfortably.

But Keep it Snug

Another reason you want to have comfortable and breathable materials is that your mask needs to fit tightly around your face. Any space between your mask and your face is enough space in which germs can enter or escape. In addition to a woven cloth fabric for the mask itself, the edges on a good mask will form a tight seal. The ear loops should fit comfortably around your ears without being too tight but also without letting your mask droop. You should avoid any mask that’s snug but doesn’t completely cover your mouth and nose as well. Look for spandex and elastic loops for a fit that more comfortably suits your face—but take the time to test out the fabric yourself if you have the chance to.

Look For Masks You Won’t Lose

Most of us are still getting used to carrying around a mask everywhere we go, and their small size means that they’re easily lost. Unless you want to keep having to buy new masks—and potentially end up needing to go somewhere and not having one—then you’ll need one that’s hard to forget. 

Bright colors and patterns can make it much easier to identify your mask when you need it, but plenty of mask makers are trying out new and innovative ways to make their masks stand out. The Maskie, for instance, folds up into a scrunchie that you can wear in your hair or on your wrist when you don’t need to use it as a mask.