Reversible, sustainable face masks

If you're looking for a little more information on our range of reusable face masks, you're in the right place!

We first launched our sustainable face masks at the start of May 2020, several weeks before face coverings were eventually made compulsory in public places.

After initially launching our key worker facemask giveaway, we were flooded with requests from customers to make our reversible face masks available for sale. So we refocused some of our production from eco-friendly shirts, to making our sustainable and reusable face masks in London. In doing so, we hoped to do our bit to keep communities safe whilst making sure that specialist, medical-grade face masks stayed reserved for front line NHS and care workers.

Fast forward 10 months and wearing a face mask has become an standard part of daily life, and we know that face coverings are playing a key role in controlling the spread of Covid-19.

OUR REVERSIBLE FACE MASKS

Our masks are designed specifically for daily use, on public transport or when shopping. Whilst masks are definitely not a replacement to social distancing or hand washing, there's a considerable amount of evidence to suggest that when used properly, they are effective in reducing transmission of viruses. We're continuously evolving the design and construction of our face masks where necessary in line with the latest scientific guidance.

The current government guidelines state that a face covering should ideally include 'at least 2 layers of fabric (the World Health Organization recommends 3, depending on the fabric used)'. Our reusable face masks are made from recycled plastic bottles, and in fact contain 4 layers - a front and back layer made from a tightly woven fabric that is made entirely out of plastic bottles, and two inner layers of non-woven, bonded interlining (also recycled).

4 layers might sound excessive but our face masks are extremely comfortable and easy to breathe in whilst ensuring your nose and mouth are fully covered. (Don't just take our word for it - have a look at our customer reviews to read their views on the breathability and comfort our face masks provide). 

The government guidelines also state that a face covering 'should be secured to the head with ties or ear loops'. Our face masks feature adjustable ear loops that ensure you can fit it both comfortably and securely to your face.

We’ve thought carefully about the safety and functionality of our masks, as well as ensuring that we’re making them in as sustainable a way as possible. In addition to using sustainable fabric made from recycled plastic waste, we use zero-waste sublimation printing that doesn’t use excess dyes, and the dyes we do use are non-toxic. And because our masks are reusable and washable (we recommend washing on a gentle 30 degrees cycle for maximum longevity), it’s a much more sustainable option that using a new, disposable mask every day.

Finally, let’s not forget the prints! We’ve made our facemarks reversible, so you get two colourful print options with one mask. Whether it’s the Shima animal print in viridian green and dusky pink, our intricate Eye of Newt print in pop-art colours or the endlessly joyful Daisy print, there’s a print for everyone. We’re playing our part in protecting you and your community by making these masks, and we hope they also add an uplifting boost to your day when you wear them.

WHY YOU SHOULD OPT FOR A REUSABLE FACE MASK

Whether it's a Newt mask or not, we strongly encourage you to opt for a reusable, washable mask wherever possible. This is of course except for in certain medical settings that require a surgical or FFP3 mask. The amount of PPE waste that has been found in our oceans and on our beaches this year is very sobering. It's been reported that millions of pieces of discarded PPE have been found in the ocean and on beaches in the UK alone. This not only spoils our beautiful beaches and countryside, but also traps and endangers our marine wildlife.

We recently donated the profits of our "Green Friday" sales to the Marine Conservation Society to help fund the beach clean ups they are conducting to remove PPE and other rubbish from the UK's beaches. Do take a look at the fantastic work they're doing, not only to help clean up PPE that has been discarded, but also to encourage and campaign for people to opt for a reusable option wherever possible.

HOW TO USE MASKS SAFELY

Finally, face masks are only effective if they’re used correctly. We recently spoke to some front line medical workers about ways to use facemarks safely - here’s their advice:

• Don’t touch your face or the outside of the mask while you're wearing it, as virus particles can of course gather on the surface while you’re out and about.
• When you’re removing your face mask, be careful not touch your eyes, nose or mouth - ideally, use the elastic behind the ears to remove it.
• Always wash your hands immediately after removing your mask, and wash your mask regularly.
• Children under the age of 2 or anyone who has trouble breathing shouldn’t use face masks.
  
  

Browse our ever-growing collection of face masks here