The first shipments of the COVID-19 vaccine have finally arrived in Canada. This week, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines will be distributed to 14 sites across the country, and across all 10 provinces. Still, our frontline workers need our collaboration to stop the spread of the virus by respecting safety measures: wearing masks, physical distancing and frequent hand-washing. But with the promise of a successful vaccine against COVID-19 on the way, the question still remains, will we continue to need to wear face masks in 2021?

Do I Still Need to Wear A Face Mask After I Get Vaccinated?

Absolutely. The infectious disease specialists who created the vaccine are still uncertain if the vaccine will prevent the spread of COVID-19. At this crucial time, they ask that the population follow public health advice and continue to wear a face mask while maintaining social distancing, even after they receive a vaccine.

With face masks continuing to the best form of protection against the spread of COVID-19, it's about time we start embracing them as part of our everyday wardrobe. Heck, if we welcomed the 90's back in with open arms along with giant scrunchies and velvet pants, we can surely do the same for masks. Since we know that face masks are here to stay, it's better to embrace them as the fashion staple that saves lives instead of a minor inconvenience. 

What Are Non Medical Face Masks?

Non medical face masks are any type of face covering that isn't an N95 mask, surgical mask, or medical-grade mask. These types of masks should be preserved for frontline workers and healthcare professionals only. Non medical face masks are our go-to masks when social distancing just isn't possible. These face coverings are made from a variety of fabrics and come in many different fabrics, styles and prints making it totally possible to keep stylish and safe.

How Do I Choose The Best Face Mask?

With all the different types of face masks available it can be hard to determine which mask is best for you let alone what print and pattern to select. While every mask type comes with its own list of benefits experts suggest that you focus on fabric, fit, and breathability.

Face Mask Fabrics

When choosing a fabric mask, you will want to make that your mask is made from a tightly woven fabric and is comprised of two layers for better filtration efficiency.

Mask fabrics can be made from almost anything, including silk, cotton, polyester, and nylon. Researchers however agree that a tight-weave 100% cotton is best. The natural fibers found in cotton tend to have a more three-dimensional structure when compared to synthetic fibers, which are smoother in nature and tend to let in more particles.

If you decide on a cotton face mask, make sure to choose cotton that is certified Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX® since conventional cotton is processed with harmful chemicals that are known to cause respiratory and other health-related issues. Kinda the exact opposite of what we're going for. 

Finding The Best Fit

Many masks are being sold with a variety of straps, wires and attachments that can start to turn any face mask into a complicated contraption that would be found in Darth Vador's wardrobe. Masks typically come with elastic ear straps, neck straps or head straps to keep your mask in place. There are also many masks available with a small nose wire sewn inside in order to keep your mask from sliding.

A proper fitting mask should ultimately securely cover your nose, mouth and chin without any visible gaps. Since once size fits all shouldn't really apply to face masks, you will want to go buy a mask that offers adjustable ear and neck straps for a more comfortable and secure fit. And while a nose wire may sound appealing, if your mask fits properly there is no need to risk a metal object snapping near your face or causing permanent scarring.

Making Your Own Face Masks

With periods of lockdown and social distancing in place, you may want to have a go at making your own cotton face mask. If you own a sewing machine and want to reuse old fabric there are many videos and tutorials out there that can guide you through the process. Making a mask from scratch can be a fun afternoon project depending on just how crafty you are.

But if you're the type that needs to go to their 'safe space' when faced with the task of sewing back on a missing button, then buying a locally handmade mask is the next best thing.

The Best Face Masks in Toronto

If you're searching for locally made reusable face masks, be sure to check out our stylish and sustainable face mask collection come in classic colors that will match any style or outfit. Our handmade masks are comprised of thick, double layered waffle cotton featuring adjustable elastic ear loops and neck strap for the perfect fit.

The intricate waffle weave design ensures proper filtration and dries quickly when exposed to moisture due to the fabric's intricate "honeycomb" pattern. This unique pattern allows for more surface area for water to evaporate quicker forming a safer barrier between your face and moisture.

Our face coverings are made from 100% organic cotton certified Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX®. This certification ensures that the double layer masks are made from a fabric that is completely free from harmful chemicals and safe for your face.

Use our code jojo10 at checkout to save 10% off your order.