Let's be honest: Coronavirus isn't disappearing any time soon, which means face masks are also sticking around. As you know by now, face coverings help reduce the spread of COVID-19, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends people wear masks in public settings when social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. Not to mention, they're mandatory in many states. (Psst, if you need to stock up, try these breathable options perfect for summer.)
As face masks have become a large part of our "new normal," people are finding creative ways to ensure they never forget them at home again (lanyards for your mask, IYKYK), and companies are introducing other health-minded products—including keychain touch tools, face shields, and safety goggles—as the standards for sanitation have peaked, thanks to the pandemic.
You might be relieved to hear that latest innovation in coronavirus accessories doesn't seem as outrageous as croakies for your face mask. Meet mask holders, which keep your face coverings protected from dirt, germs, and moisture—and simultaneously help prevent cross-contamination between your mask and other items in your bag, like your keys, glasses, wallet, and phone.
On the fence? Well, a medical expert believes they might be worth it. "I think keeping your face mask in a case inside a bag would be a good idea," says Nabeel Chaudhary, M.D., a board-certified internal medicine and primary care physician at Manhattan Gastroenterology. "It would prevent it from getting dirty and prevent cross contamination from other items/products."
After a quick online search, you'll discover that there are a ton of case options out there, made of everything from plastic to silicone to fabric. If you're wondering if one type of material is superior or safer to use—in terms of what bacteria or coronavirus droplets can live on—there's no right or wrong answer. "I don’t think there’s any specific case that would serve a better purpose than another or help kill germs," notes Dr. Chaudhary. That being said, be sure to properly clean your case between uses with alcohol or disinfectant wipes, he adds.
The only downside we can see is that a face mask case is an additional item to schlep around with you, but thankfully most are thin, compact, and lightweight—and are designed to fit inside your purse, bag, and even your pocket. Keep scrolling for the best face mask holders and carriers to help prevent cross-contamination.
Mask Case Mask Box
This case will protect your mask when not in use from moisture and dirt, and can also prevent cross-contamination between your face covering and other items in your bag, like your keys or phone. Plus, the thin design conveniently fits in your purse, backpack, or pocket.
To buy: Mask Case Mask Box, from $5; amazon.com
Loloooocare Silicone Face Mask Storage Case
Made of soft, odorless, non-toxic silicone, this case has a convenient wide mouth so you can easily fit your face mask inside. Just boil or sterilize the case with alcohol or disinfectant wipes after each use.
To buy: Loloooocare Silicone Face Mask Storage Case, $8; amazon.com
Caraa Single Mask Pouch
One of the lightest face mask carriers you'll find, this pouch is constructed of vegan leather and water-resistant nylon—and is even machine-washable. It features a dedicated pocket for extra filters, a d-ring that can be clipped to your bag, and fits up to 10 masks if you plan to use it for travel. Choose from six pretty shades, including black, sage, blush, and clay.
To buy: Caraa Single Mask Pouch, $15; caraasport.com
Nunubebe Mask Hygiene Storage Case
The unique lid on this holder is designed to keep germs at bay, thanks to deodorizing and dehumidifying sachets (they help to absorb extra moisture). To maximize on these benefits, keep your mask inside the case for at least 20 minutes at a time.
To buy: Nunubebe Mask Hygiene Storage Case, $10; amazon.com
LoveMarieEmbroidery Face Mask Pouch
A mask pouch keychain—what will they think of next? Attach it to your bag, backpack, or keychain to ensure you never forget your mask when you leave the house. This Etsy shop also offers monogramming on these mask holders, which will help your kids keep tabs on their protective coverings when it's safe to return to school.
To buy: LoveMarieEmbroidery Face Mask Pouch, $5; etsy.com
Boao Store Plastic Face Covering Storage Box
Lightweight and portable, these plastic cases snap shut to keep your face mask clean and dry when not in use—like when eating at a restaurant. This set comes with six carriers, so you can spread them out between your purse, gym duffle, bicycle basket, market bag, and car.
To buy: Boao Store Plastic Face Covering Storage Box, $27 for 6; amazon.com
LuckyplanetUS Antibacterial Film Mask Keeper Pouch
An Etsy bestseller, this face mask keeper boasts antibacterial film that has been tested by FITI (a testing and research institute that's been around for over 50 years) and proven to reduce up to 99.9 percent of bacteria growth. Plus, the flexible design can be folded up to fit inside your purse or pocket.
Sun Nomad Store Portable UV Light Box
While it might not be convenient enough to carry around with you every day, this neat little gadget is great for disinfecting your mask at the end of the day or on-the-go when traveling. It uses UV light exposure to sanitize everything from your face covering to your phone.
Souces: https://www.health.com/condition/infectious-diseases/coronavirus/best-face-mask-case
