Where to find kids' face masks that work - CNET

Face masks and face coverings that fit your face are crucial for both kids and adults when interacting with people outside their own household. The fear that children could be super-spreaders of coronavirus is at the center of a heated debate on whether or not to reopen schools in the fall. We don't yet know when most children will be back in school and whether there will be a face mask requirement when they do, but it's still an important time to stock up on masks for your kids.

With coronavirus cases currently raging across the country and the World Health Organization calling for additional evidence on the virus' airborne transmission, it's time to make sure your kids are protected. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends face masks or face coverings for children aged two and up. 

Children were once considered to have a lower risk of infection than their parents, but there are some documented cases in children with illness linked to COVID-19 resembling Kawasaki disease that are concerning and asymptomatic kids can still pass on the virus to high-risk groups who could become severely ill or die. Read on to learn what to note when you're looking for a kids face mask and browse a number of unique and even fun styles made just for their smaller faces. This story is updated often.

Read more: 7 face mask myths debunked: What to know about coverings, COVID-19 and your health

Top things to know when buying face masks for kids

• If they wear glasses, consider styles that go around the back of the head or neck, instead of ear loops. Also, a contoured face mask shape may work best with glasses.
• If your child has breathing problems, such as asthma, the CDC suggests they should not wear a face mask.
• Is your kid active? Some companies are using a lightweight, moisture-wicking cloth face mask fabric, like cotton, which is better suited for the summer heat. 
• We recommend buying several face masks for your child to rotate out while the others are being washed.
• If the face mask winds up making your child's ears sore, here are recommendations to make it more comfortable.

Carter's

Carter's, a clothing brand company for kids, is now making cloth face masks. The masks are 100 percent cotton.

Vista Print

Vistaprint has contoured face masks with ear loops and adjustable nose pieces for kids.

Old Navy

Old Navy has tons of face masks in different colors and designs for your little one. The cloth face coverings are made from 100 percent cotton and have three layers.

Athleta

Athleta, a performance and activity clothing line, is making cloth face masks with adjustable ear loops for kids. The masks are sold in five-packs for $30.

Gap

Gap is selling face masks in packs of three for $15. The masks are made from three layers of cotton fabric with ear loops.

Disney

Disney is officially selling face masks, including The Avengers and Baby Yoda reusable face  mask options. They come in sets of four for $20. The company will donate all mask profits (up to $1 million) to MedShare.

Purple

Purple, the company known for its mattresses, is now making face masks. The masks are sold in pairs for kids for $20.

MaskClub

MaskClub is a new company that's donating medical-grade masks to the First Responders Children's Foundation for every kid's face mask sold. It offers designs such as Elmo and Paw Patrol that it hopes will make kids more comfortable wearing them. 

Bonrisu

Bonrisu makes handmade cotton face masks for kids. The masks have a filter pocket and adjustable straps. For every cloth mask bought, the company is donating a mask to communities in need.

Stitchroom

Stitchroom makes face masks for children from 2-8 years old.

Jaanuu

Jaanuu, a medical apparel brand, is making antimicrobial-finished face masks for kids. You can buy a five-pack of masks for $25.

PaigeLauren

PaigeLauren is selling face mask sets for adults, children and mini sizes.

Mamask

Mamask face masks come with one copper ion fabric filter. The masks are made of 100 percent cotton.

For more face mask tips, here's what you need to know about making your own face mask at home. Also, if you still need an adult face mask, check out our list of online face mask stores.

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The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.