The Best Face Masks for Kids: Fun and Functional

William Fortunato

It’s the Fall fashion accessory that no one could have predicted two years ago: face masks. With B.C.’s mask mandate having expanded to include kindergarten to Grade 3 students, Vancouver parents may find that their number one task is to find the best face mask and fast!

To help in your search, here are a few tried-and-true options to check out. Be sure to test drive a few different types and remember that the “best” face mask may be the one that your child is willing to wear, remove and care for properly.

Top places to search for face masks your kids will love!

3 Little Monkeys

Kid wearing handmade reusable cotton face mask. — *Coquitlam-based 3 Little Monkeys creates high-quality, handmade masks, and has recently added lanyards to its collection.*
*Photo credit: 3 Little Monkeys Instagram*

3 Little Monkeys is a Coquitlam-based business owned and operated by a mother of three who saw a need for high-quality, handmade reusable face masks. Masks are available in a triple-layer 100% cotton or a double-layer 100% cotton with a one-layer non-woven polypropylene filter. Stretchy ear loops and an adjustable nose strip allow for better comfort and fit. And if you hustle, you might score one of their Halloween-themed masks. They’re pretty fangtastic!

Etsy Canada

Fun cloud pattern cloth mask for kids by littletreeapparel on Etsy — *Etsy is an excellent source for handmade reusable face masks made by small business owners like North Vancouver’s littletreeapparel.*
*Photo credit: littletreeapparel on Etsy*

Etsy’s online marketplace is a go-to for parents looking for handmade, custom items. Masks are no exception! Narrow your search by setting your shop location filter or as far as you’re willing to travel. Then, a host of local options will appear (like littletreeapparel). Etsy’s two-way communication with the shop owner provides added assurance that you’re buying exactly what you’re looking for. And, if you’ve got an itch to stitch for yourself, Etsy also lists downloadable patterns for DIY mask-making. If you go this route, prepare to make your own pattern adjustments, as needed.

Local Facebook Groups

Two local kids wearing floral pattern face masks — *Community Facebook groups can connect you with local kids face mask designers.*
*Photo credit: Lindsay Marett*

Crowdsourcing at its best! Many communities have their own local groups on Facebook dedicated to sharing advice and recommendations about anything remotely related to parenting. Finding reusable face masks for kids is currently a trending topic. Discover hidden gems, such as a mom from your kid’s school who has a successful side hustle as a mask maker. Start searching Facebook Marketplace and any local parent groups now. Things to consider when assessing the quality of the face mask – the type of fabric, how many layers it is, whether there is a nose clip or filter pocket, and also if the ear loops are adjustable.

Gap Canada

Kid wearing Gap's face mask — Gap’s contour mask with a filter pocket was designed for kid comfort.
Photo credit: GapKids Instagram

Gap has a variety of options for reusable kids’ face masks available in packs of three. Those made from a knit blend have a soft and stretchy jersey ear loop, and are available in kid-friendly prints (what’s cooler than a Wonder Woman mask?). Gap’s contour mask is made from triple-layer 100% cotton and features both an adjustable nose piece and adjustable elastic ear straps, perfect for achieving a snug fit on smaller faces. Plus, it features a pocket for a filter insert. And if you’re looking to step up your family pajama photoshoot this year, Gap also carries an 8-pack of contour masks with adult and kids’ sizes.

Various locations throughout Metro Vancouver

Old Navy Canada

Mother and daughter wearing fun pattern face masks — The stylish yet affordable face masks at Old Navy are both kid and parent approved.
Photo credit: Old Navy Instagram

Affordable: Check. Adjustable: Check. Absolutely cute designs: Check. Old Navy is your go-to when it comes to finding the best face masks for kids that check all the boxes. Their triple-layer 100% cotton masks are available in 5-packs and 10-packs, and adjustable elastic ear straps gain bonus points for fit and comfort.

Various locations throughout Metro Vancouver

Whistle and Flute

Kid in face mask with fun designs — *Bold patterns made with comfy, quality materials are a few of the reasons to love Whistle and Flute face masks.*
*Photo credit: Whistle and Flute Instagram*

The Victoria-based clothing brand that specializes in gender-neutral and ethically-made goods also carries a line of reusable face masks featuring the company’s popular graphic designs. Available in packs of three, Whistle and Flute’s Series 2 masks are made from a double-layer of 100% organic cotton. Masks include adjustable elastic ear straps and an optional filter pocket. Check their website regularly for deals – your kids will love the oh-so-stylish prints and you’ll love the savings.

Now that you’ve done your research and have found just the right mask, help your little one keep track of it! For school age kids, a special lanyard will help to prevent masks from getting misplaced. Shop lanyards at a local retailer or pick up some beads for a rainy day afternoon of crafting. With a quick trip to Michaels and a YouTube search for DIY videos. Also, be sure to follow any safety guidelines for the age of your child such as ensuring lanyards have a quick release clasp.

Please note these are all reusable non-medical-grade face masks and most are intended for kids age 3 and older. Ensure to review any safety guidelines or disclaimers, follow the care instructions when washing and, of course, your local health authority guidelines.