Masks and Accessories to Make Covering Your Face More Comfortable

The CDC recommends most people wear face masks in places where it's not always possible to stay 6 feet from others, and some stores like Costco are mandating that shoppers mask up, too. Still, comfort is key — after all, masks are more effective if we're not tugging at them, or worse, ripping them off and stuffing them in our pockets. We've rounded up some face masks that should help get the job done as comfortably as possible, plus a handful of accessories and do-it-yourself solutions that can make your average mask less of a bother. 

Prices and availability are subject to change.

$12 from Old Navy
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One of the best ways to boost your chances of staying comfortable in your face mask: Buying the right fabric in the first place. All-cotton masks like Old Navy's offer the best combination of breathability and protection, experts say. They also come in kids' sizes.

$12 from Etsy
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While plenty of masks feature elastic loops that go around the ears, masks like this one that tie behind the head allow for a more comfortable, customizable fit. Buyers agree, saying this kind of design saves them from constant ear irritation brought on by the elastic loops common on other masks.

$30 from Los Angeles Apparel
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Constantly fighting the temptation to pull your mask down? Look for a mask with a built-in wire that will help reduce pressure on your nose, giving you a little more breathing room.

$10 from Etsy
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If a nose wire isn't enough to keep you comfortable, try a mask like this one, made with a 3-D pattern that allows it to sit a bit further off the face. Of course, all edges should still be flush against the skin to better contain germs.

$20 from Purple
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Mattress companies are in the business of keeping us comfy for hours each night, so this moisture-wicking face mask made with ultra-stretchy comfort gel bands is worth a try for those who prefer the convenience of ear loops.

$22 from A-Line
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A-Line isn't the only company making face masks in a variety of sizes, but it's among the makers we've seen with the largest range. There are five sizes to choose from, suitable for everyone from preschoolers to larger men.

$20 from Amazon
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If you don't want to deal with straps, a versatile neck gaiter like this UPF 50 option may be worth a shot. One major caveat: Most gaiters are made from synthetic fabrics, which experts acknowledge may retain more germs than cotton. 

$25 from Jaanuu
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Again, while cotton is usually best for face masks, Jaanuu's synthetic masks are not only antimicrobial, but moisture-wicking, which may make them more practical as temperatures rise. The material is the same stuff the company uses to make medical scrubs.

$30 from Avocado
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Also from a mattress maker, these masks are a good pick for anyone who wants to keep things as natural as possible. They're made from two layers of certified 100% organic cotton canvas, and feature ties instead of elastic loops.

$10 from SwaddleDesigns
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Who better than a nurse who makes baby blankets to design a face mask that's truly comfortable? Made from soft cotton flannel, these masks have elastic ear loops as well as a head loop for a snug fit. The company also sells cotton chambray masks that have adjustable nose pieces.

Whether you don't want to spend money on a mask or need one in a pinch, it's possible to make one that's serviceable — even comfortable — with materials you already have: a bandana or some other sturdy cotton fabric; a twist tie or paperclip; and hair bands, ribbon, or shoe laces. The twist tie or paperclip allows for adjustments around the nose, while hair bands function like elastic ear loops. Ribbon or shoe laces allow for a tie-back design instead.

$10 from Amazon
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If your mask is too loose, you'll be touching it constantly to keep it in place, defeating the purpose of wearing it. These small silicone tubes can shorten and tighten mask straps for a more custom fit.

$13 from Amazon
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Also known as ear savers, mask extenders are usually made of flexible pieces of plastic or silicone. They attach to a mask's elastic loops, helping take the pressure off your ears and providing a closer, more comfortable fit.

Got some leftover fabric, buttons, and a little sewing knowhow? If so, you can make your own mask extender instead of buying one. And if you don't sew, you can even use a paperclip in a pinch.

$13 from Amazon
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Glasses and face masks aren't a great combination. Mask wearers who want fog-free specs may want to invest in anti-fog spray that can nip that problem in the bud. This Optix spray can be smeared on with your finger and goes to work immediately.

For a temporary fix, you can also stop your lenses from fogging with water and a smear of soap. Why? Because the two "act like a cloak" that prevents water molecules from your breath from clustering to closely, according to CNN. Another quick-fix solution: Use athletic or medical tape to better seal the top of your mask to your nose.

$12 from Amazon
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If you have dry skin, a face mask is going to be annoying at best and excruciatingly uncomfortable at worst. Keep that delicate skin around the nose and ears well-hydrated to stave off irritation.

$3.50 from Amazon
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Already suffering from mask-induced chafing? Use petroleum jelly to form a protective barrier on the skin in spots where you experience rubbing.

Prefer to go the natural route? Make your own skin soother with beeswax, coconut oil, and olive oil. It's easy to make and will relieve irritated skin for up to a year.

At first, masks with valves seem like a great way to stay more comfortable, keeping you protected while allowing your breath to escape more easily. But while they may be less stifling, wearing one would allow your unfiltered breath to potentially infect others. Remember, face masks are best at helping prevent you from spreading germs to someone else, not vice versa.