Whether you like it or not, are against it or for it, covering your mouth and nose seems like it will be around for a while. There are a few different options for how to do this. Below is a brief summary of some of your choices, and you can see more PPE Items in our special section on our website – PPE Items:
The good news about these (the 3-ply type as pictured) is that the prices are coming down now. We saw prices rise above $1 when the pandemic initially hit but they are in the $.65 range now.
There are two types of disposable.
Medical Use – These would be 3-ply and designated as Level 2 or Level 3.
Civilian or Other Use – These are 3-ply also but do not have as much filtration. They would be Level 1 or not designated.
You also have to be sure you get some where the elastic is attached well. We’ve seen some that tear too easily.
The KN95 masks are what is preferred for medical purposes, but probably are overkill for every day wearing. If you do want them decide if you want them FDA approved or not.
These come in various materials.
Cotton - We like the cotton ones the best as they are not as hot on your face. We also recommend you consider ones with elastic or adjustable straps. The ones that are not adjustable just don’t fit everyone since different folks have different size heads/ears. There are several cotton masks that are basically t-shirt materials (it is what the t-shirt manufacturers switched to doing). Realizing everyone has their personal preferences we have to say these do not seem like a good choice.
Polyester & Polyester/Spandex – Synthetic materials that are electrostatic. Electrostatic materials offer more protection.
Microfiber – These can be various synthetic materials and are electrostatic also.
Since the reusable masks need to be washed it might be a good idea to get 2-3 per person.
Gaiters (sometimes called a Twistie, Yowie, other names) is a tubular piece of material, usually a polyester or synthetic. You can wear them covering your mouth and nose, pull down around your neck, wear as a piece to hold your hair back and however else you can think of. Many of them use a sublimination imprint method, which means you can design it from scratch and imprint the entire piece.
Cooling Gaiters – The majority of our Gaiter sales, and we have had several, have to been to companies such as contractors who have workers out in the heat. There are versions available that are a cooling material. You wet them, wring them out, and as long there is moisture they keep you cool.
Bandanna masks - We have had very good feedback on these also!
There are a lot of shield options, some you can imprint and some not. We have had few requests for these.
We hope you find this information helpful. There are numerous types of items for covering your mouth and nostrils. For more visit Promo Hounds PPE Items.
And let us know if we can help. kevin@promohounds.com.