In today’s day and age, sporting a mask when we step out of our home has become compulsory (unless you’re doing strenuous sport that is). However, wearing disposable masks every day is not the smartest option. N95 and surgical masks are running low on stock worldwide and (we believe) they should be primarily reserved for our medical heroes. Another reason why we should ditch the disposables? They’re not sustainable or eco-friendly and are contributing to plastic pollution.
This is why reusable masks are a great option for your own protection and the environment. While cloth masks are not as efficient as N95 respirators, it still stops your germs from getting released into the air and can be washed and worn every day. And since we might have to spend several more weeks hiding behind our protective veils, there’s no reason why we can’t wear a little bit more joyful and colourful. Here are some independent local brands that are creating reusable masks, with many using offcuts, exciting prints and donated proceeds to charity.
1. Binary Style
We love Binary Style for their quirky prints inspired by Singaporean culture and architecture. Now their fun designs in mask form! Their reusable masks are double-layered, made from 100% cotton fabric and come with a pocket to insert your own non-woven filters. What’s more, they donate 20% of their sales to Transient Workers Count Too (TWC2), an initiative to promote equitable treatment for migrant workers in Singapore.
Check out their website for more info and to place orders!
2. Baju by Oniatta
If you’re looking for a mask that expresses your love for Batik, then this is it. These masks by Baju by Oniattaa are made from leftover fabrics from previous collections, made in small unique batches. Customers won’t know what print they will receive but can specify their colour preferences. Either way, you can look forward to a surprise in the post!
Here’s how you can order via their Instagram.
3. CYC
Made out of Egyptian cotton, comes with an N95 Hydrophobic Filter, offering various sizes and supports a good cause? Yeap, that’s your local do-gooder CYC, making reusable face masks from their fabrics. They have a great mix of mask designs – Liberty prints, simple patterns and even solid colours for a more corporate feel. Their sales also support their Masks for Migrants initiative.
Buy your CYC mask from their website.
4. Dorsu
We were super excited when we heard our #BetterBrand Dorsu was making reusable personal prevention masks during this global health crisis. Not only does this ethical brand create intentional and responsible apparel, but they also prioritise the physical and emotional well-being of their employees above everything else. These 2-ply cotton masks are washable, reusable and also come in a handy cotton bag to wear one and pack one.
You can place orders from their website.
5. Good Krama
Another great Cambodian brand taking the zero-waste approach, Good Krama’s reusable face masks are made from two layers of cotton from their fabric off-cuts. They are selling the masks in various packs, in a random mix assortment of colours that are also reversible with contrasting colourways. What’s more, they are also giving 30% of their mask profits to the World Health Organization.
Support their initiative and get your masks here.
6. Lisa Von Tang
Face masks for those feeling fancy! Lisa Von Tang’s masks use Egyptian cotton as inner fabric and offer a variety of outer options in 100% silk in nearly a dozen stunning colours, and upcycled linen too. And if being chic and stylish wasn’t enough, the brand will donate 5 surgical masks to Careforthehomeless.org and Contribute.sg for every mask purchased!
Shop your LVT face masks here.
7. Maskela
Wear a reusable mask, but make it fashion. Covetella takes on a new approach with Maskela, their new initiative making masks the next big glamorous accessory for your face. Handmade by local tailors, the mask also includes a hidden filter pocket to insert disposable filters, with adjustable ear loops and nose wire.
Treat your fancy self with some masks from their website.
8. Minor Miracles
Using leftover colourful fabric scraps and turning into masks seem to be the DIY project of the year! But if you’re not as adept with a sewing machine, consider pre-ordering from Minor Miracles. Their fabrics are designed with hand-drawn paint strokes with dreamy floral motifs and make for great face covers. Choose between their various prints and even opt for a plain version if that’s your style. All their profits are split two ways to Covid Migrant Support Coalition and Migrant Workers’ Assistance Fund!
Pre-order their 4th round of masks here!
9. Namaskte
A one-woman-operation, Namaskte offers waterproof reusable face masks made with gorgeous Japanese-inspired prints. These reusable masks also have accessible pockets from both sides to insert an additional filter. Their Japanese premium cotton and Tencel or cotton interior masks are made in batches and for pre-order only, and donate 10% of profits to local charities.
Shop these handmade masks on their Instagram.
10. OliveAnkara
There’s no way these vibrantly printed masks won’t put a smile on your face (even if no one can see them). OliveAnkara uses their trademark 100% wax print fabrics to make their masks, ensuring you’ll stand out in a sea of black and white masks. They even create options for adults and kids. 10% of their profits go to help migrant workers and Singaporeans in need.
Buy their African wax print masks from their website.
