This article uses affiliate links, which means if you purchase products through these links, we may earn a commission. Click here to see our T&C. For licensing please click here.
woman-in-blue-shirt-wearing-face-mask-3881247
Face masks and face shields have become a necessity as we face the COVID-19 pandemic around the globe. Pexels

The need to wear a face mask has become more crucial than ever as coronavirus cases continue to increase across the nation. This is especially so if you have to go outside to do important tasks such as buying groceries and other essentials, or if you are in a situation where social distancing is impossible to observe. Wearing one helps ensure that no one else gets infected by COVID-19, preventing you from becoming a liability in the fight against the virus.

However, just as important as wearing a face mask is the mask itself. This is best answered by the following questions: Does your mask fit your face? Is it prone to falling off easily? Does it expose parts of your face to harmful pathogens and virus-carrying droplets?

To help you choose which face masks (of all types) you should be using amid the pandemic, we have gathered some that are ranked best and worst. Here are 8 of them:

BEST

1. EasyEast Disposable Face Mask (25-Pack)
(photo from amazon.com)

EasyEast's Disposable Face Mask can fit all sizes -- adult or child -- as it covers the mouth, nose and chin. Featuring three breathable layers that protect your face from potential virus-carrying droplets, this face mask has comfortable ear loops on either side that keep it from falling. It is also lightweight, allowing you to bring and use it anywhere before discarding.

2. CandyCare Disposable Face Mask (25-Pack)
(photo from amazon.com)

These disposable face masks from CandyCare are made from a supportive and powerful 3-layered fabric, which has non-woven fabric outer layers with a non-woven filtration fabric layer in the middle. Designed for a softer, latex-free and smoother feel for all-day breathability, it has elastic ear loops on either side that can fit most head sizes without adding pressure to the ears.

3. Zubrex Disposable Face Mask
(photo from amazon.com)

Make breathing easier all day with these face masks from Zubrex. Their Nanofiber inner layers allow them to be thinner compared to other disposable masks, as Nanofibers are a thousand times thinner than human hairs; all this means less bulk and better breathing experience. Each mask has extra-soft elastic ear loops to eliminate pressure on the ears for maximum comfort.

4. Yiiza Face Covers
(photo from amazon.com)

This pair of reusable and washable masks from Yiiza feature heart patterns at the front for added style. Each mask is made of high-quality cotton that helps make your face soft and comfortable, and also keeps your face warm especially in cold weather. You can use them for home or outdoor shopping, or in outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking.

5. Gildan Reusable Mask
(photo from amazon.com)

These reusable face masks from Gildan come in a pack of 48 on Amazon. Available in two colors, each face mask is machine washable and features a premium soft cotton lining and a polyester shell, with the former ensuring that it keeps its shape wash after wash. The face masks also have adjustable horizontal ties to ensure a secure fit.

WORST

6. TCP Global Salon World Disposable Face Mask
(photo from amazon.com)

These face masks from TCP Global, which feature three protective filtering layers, are ideal for most workplaces. One major downside, according to some Amazon reviewers, is their "flimsy" ear straps, which are glued to the mask (as opposed to being sewn in), making them prone to being removed when pulled too hard. Their nose guards also suffer similar issues.

7. Tart Collections Cotton Face Mask
(photo from amazon.com)

Tart Collections' Cotton Face Mask is made from 100% cotton, which delivers excellent breathability while preventing the inhalation of dust, pollen and other fine particles in the air. It also has issues; one Amazon reviewer claimed that it works for kids' faces, but too small for those of average adults, and another found it "too tight."

8. AstroAI Reusable Dust Face Mask
(photo from amazon.com)

AstroAI's Reusable Dust Mask features a four-layer filter in a comfortable design for better protection, along with activated carbon filters that protect you from dust, which makes sense since it is ideal for woodworking, lawn mowing, cycling and other activities. On the other hand, many Amazon reviewers found that its design -- particularly the velcro back strap -- can cause problems on your nose.