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Face Mask
A woman wearing a face mask is pictured. Polina Tankilevitch/Pexes

Whether every American likes it or not, it is now more important than ever to wear a face mask especially as the number of COVID-19 cases is on the rise again over the past few weeks. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wearing one when in public places to slow the transmission of the virus.

That does not mean that you can ignore other measures that can reduce chances of getting infected by the coronavirus, including social distancing and frequent hand washing. Still, by wearing a face mask, you can prevent yourself and others from becoming casualties in the fight against the virus. And the best part is that many of the masks listed here are proudly made in America, allowing you to support local businesses dedicated to making masks across the country.

Be they disposable or reusable, here are 8 face masks every American should have right now:

1. ElimStation Face Mask

elimstation face mask filter
ElimStation Face Mask with Filter ElimStation / Etsy

Now with over 12,000 sales on Etsy, ElimStation's reusable face masks are all American-made, so you can be sure that what you buy is local. They are available in various colors, colored designs and sizes, and can be bought in sets of 3 to 5. Each mask is made of 100% cotton fabric for comfort, and has a pocket for putting the included activated carbon filters for additional protection.

2. Alertcare 3-Layer Disposable Face Shield
(photo from amazon.com)

Made from soft, non-woven materials for easier breathing, the Alertcare 3-Ply Earloop Face Mask can be used when cleaning the house, in areas with poor air quality, sport or even at the workplace. This disposable face mask has a water-resistant outer layer that keeps respiratory droplets such as saliva and mucus from reaching your body, and has a metal nose bridge that keeps it in place.

3. Dre Health TotalDefense Earloop Masks
(photo from amazon.com)

Dre Health's Earloop Masks can be used as a dust mask for construction workers, painters and more, as they are designed to be both breathable and comfortable. Available in packs of 20 to 80 on Amazon, these disposable latex-free face masks have three layers of protection that prevent dust, pollen and respiratory droplets from entering the body.

4. DewAmor Face Mask
(photo from amazon.com)

DewAmor's Reusable Face Mask is soft enough to protect your skin from sunlight and wind, but also warm enough to keep it safe from cold weather, thanks to its soft cotton fabric construction. It not only keeps you from inhaling dust, dirt and pollen, but also guards against potential virus-carrying respiratory droplets. This hand-washable mask can be folded and fit in your pocket so you can use it anywhere you go.

5. SP-Lamp Disposable 3-Ply Face Mask
(photo from amazon.com)

These disposable face masks from SP-Lamp are made of polypropylene to help keep dust, pollen and airborne pollutants out when going outdoors. Each mask is manufactured, examined and packaged with no direct skin contact exposure so it is safe to use, and has a wired nose bridge for added safety. The masks also have elastic ear loops for a snug and comfortable fit with no added pressure to the ears.

6. StringKing Reusable Cloth Face Mask
(photo from amazon.com)

StringKing's Reusable Cloth Face Mask is not only American-made, but also meets the recommendations set by the CDC. Available in small, medium and large sizes, it utilizes two layers of fabric, including one made of locally-made Supima cotton, to filter respiratory droplets, fitting securely over your nose and mouth to provide basic cover for safety.

7. Meglio Cotton Face Mask (2-Pack)
(photo from amazon.com)

Meglio's reusable face masks are certified "made in USA." Each mask is made of 95% nylon and 5% spandex and has stretchable ear loops on either side that are incredibly soft and smooth, giving added comfort to your ears while wearing. This one comes in a pack of two on Amazon.

8. FriCare Ecoguard Disposable Protective Face Mask
(photo from amazon.com)

FriCare's Ecoguard disposable face mask not only stays dry in one use, but lets you breathe easily, thanks to its pleat design. It offers better filtration of dust, pollen and potential virus-carrying respiratory droplets through its melt-blown non-woven middle fabric layer, and has an adjustable nose clip that ensures a comfortable fit for most adult head sizes.