We have gathered everything you need to know to make the right choice for your family. Here is our guide on how to choose the best face masks for kids, plus 18 comfortable recommendations that children won’t mind wearing.
- Can be used with/without filter
- Filter provides 5 layers of protection
- Adjustable ear loops
- Two Bloch of tight weave cotton
- Adjustable earloop stopper
- Mask is shaped for kids
- Three-layered mask
- Four different patterns
- Comfortable elastic ear loop
- Come in range of styles
- Masks have two layers
- Comes with filter pocket
- Turn inside out & fold up
- Cute animal face designs
- Comes with wrist strap
- Three-ply disposable mask
- Bendable nose piece
- Fun kid-friendly patterns
- 100% cotton quilting fabric
- Has a filter pocket
- Comfortable elastic ear loops
- Made of cotton, spandex blend
- Soft & stretchy
- Choice of cool styles
- 3 layers of 100% cotton fabric
- Machine washable
- Well-made & shaped
Should Kids Wear Face Masks?
Masks help reduce the spread of germs in two specific ways. First, they decrease the chance of the wearer inhaling airborne particles. Second, they limit the chance of the wearer breathing germs out onto other people (1).
This matters because it is entirely possible to spread viruses before you even know you are sick.
However, age matters here. Children under the age of 2 years old should not wear masks. Additionally, any child who cannot remove a mask by themselves should not wear one (2). Assuming your child is older than 2 and doesn’t have a medical condition preventing it, wearing a mask in high-risk situations is generally considered safe.
Follow Your Doctor’s Advice
Types of Face Masks for Kids
Regardless of the type you buy, fit is everything. Masks need to sit snugly against the face without massive gaps, covering both the mouth and the nose comfortably.
Cloth Face Masks
Material matters when it comes to cloth options. A good mask should be made from tightly woven cotton, similar to the fabric used for quilting or high-thread-count sheets.
Look for masks constructed with at least two layers of material. If you can find triple-layer options, that offers even better filtration.
Face Masks with Filters
Masks designed with a pocket for a filter can offer enhanced protection for everyone involved. This only works if the mask fits well and is made from quality fabric. Filters, such as activated carbon inserts, need to be changed according to the manufacturer’s schedule to remain effective.
Disposable Face Masks
Disposable masks, often called surgical or medical masks, vary wildly in quality. They come in different thicknesses and layer counts.
These are incredibly convenient, especially if your child is prone to losing things at school. However, studies have shown that a high-quality, multi-layer cloth mask can sometimes provide better filtration (around 79 percent) compared to standard loose-fitting surgical masks (around 62 to 65 percent) (3).
Face Coverings/Shields
Plastic face shields might block large droplets if someone coughs directly on you, but they don’t do much to filter the air you breathe (4). Worse, they don’t stop your own germs from escaping around the sides if you sneeze.
Generally, face shields alone are not recommended for children as a primary method of protection.
Neck Gaiters and Bandanas
While convenient, pulling a neck gaiter up over the nose is often less effective than a proper mask. Thin, single-layer bandanas offer very little protection compared to multi-layer masks (5). You are better off skipping these and sticking to fitted cloth or disposable options.
N95 Face Mask for Kids
True N95 masks are respirators designed for adults in high-risk environments. The CDC generally prioritizes these supplies for healthcare workers (6). Furthermore, N95s are rarely sized correctly for small children, meaning they won’t seal properly anyway.
Key Features to Look For
There are plenty of great masks available, but there are also plenty of flimsy ones that won’t do the job. Here are the specific features to look for to ensure you are buying a winner.
Efficacy
Look for masks with at least two, preferably three, layers of fabric.
The mask needs to be large enough to completely cover your child’s nose and mouth, tucking under the chin. It should fit snugly against the cheeks and nose bridge without gaping.
Avoid masks with exhalation valves. While they make it easier to breathe out, they allow your germs to escape, defeating the purpose of protecting others.
Appearance
The style doesn’t change the safety, but it definitely changes the compliance. First, filter your search by safety features and material. Once you have a shortlist of safe options, let your child pick the color or pattern. If they like the dinosaur print, they are far less likely to pull it off.
Comfort
Ear loops are the usual culprit for discomfort.
Soft cotton loops are generally fine, but thin elastic can rub and irritate the skin after a few hours. If your child hates the feeling of loops, look for ear savers (straps that hook the loops behind the head) to relieve the pressure.
Size
A 5-year-old has a very different face size than a 12-year-old. It is critical to buy “child-size” masks rather than small adult ones. If the mask is too big, it will gap at the sides, rendering it much less effective.
Ease of Wearing
Avoid masks that tie behind the head for young children. They are difficult for kids to put on and take off independently.
Instead, stick to simple ear loops that your child can manage without adult help.
Safety
Children under age 2 should not wear masks.
Additionally, avoid using lanyards for toddlers or very young children. While they prevent the mask from getting lost, they can pose a choking or strangulation hazard if they get caught on playground equipment.
Care Instructions
You can safely wash cloth masks with regular laundry using the best laundry detergent you have on hand. Use the highest temperature setting appropriate for the fabric (7). If your child has sensitive skin, a DIY baby laundry detergent works well too.
Always check the mask after washing to ensure the loops are secure and the fabric hasn’t thinned or frayed.
Giving Back
Many companies donate a portion of profits or actual masks to communities in need. If this is important to you, check the company’s “About” section to see exactly how your purchase helps others.
Product Reviews
We evaluated dozens of options to find the 18 best face masks for kids on the market today.
We have categorized them below to help you find the perfect fit for your child’s age and style preferences.
Weddingstar Kids’ Washable Face Mask
Best Kids' Face Masks with Filter Pocket
We love this Weddingstar mask because it offers versatility for parents who want options. It features a dedicated pocket where you can insert a filter for five layers of protection; however, even without the filter, it provides two layers of cloth defense.
The design is specifically sized for children, preventing those annoying gaps around the cheeks. With 32 colors and patterns available, you are bound to find one your child actually likes. Plus, the adjustable ear loops and moldable nose piece ensure a custom fit for different face shapes.
Bloch Reusable Cloth Face Masks
Best Patterned Face Masks for Kids
These Bloch masks feature two layers of high-density soft fabric that feels gentle against sensitive skin. The unisex designs and colors work well with any school outfit, making them a practical choice for daily wear.
Fit is crucial for active kids, and these deliver with adjustable ear loops and a moldable nose wire. This combination keeps the mask snug even while your child is talking or moving. They are sized primarily for school-aged children, but the brand also offers larger sizes for teenagers and adults if you want to match.
Kids’ Single-Use Disposable Face Mask
Best Disposable Face Mask for Kids
If you are tired of washing cloth masks every day, these disposable options are a lifesaver. Ignore the inconsistent online chatter; these are solid, standard-issue disposable masks sized correctly for smaller faces.
Each box contains 50 masks featuring four different patterns, which adds a little fun to the routine. They offer three-layer construction and standard elastic loops. While some users note a slight scent initially, we found them comparable to standard surgical masks. They are perfect for stashing in the car or backpack for emergencies.
Kids' 3-Pack Loony Tunes Face Mask
Cartoon Filter Pocket Fun
Getting kids to wear a mask is infinitely easier when their favorite character is involved. These packs feature beloved icons like Batman, Scooby-Doo, and the Loony Tunes gang, making safety feel a bit more like play.
Beyond the graphics, these are practical two-layer masks with a filter pocket for optional extra protection. Measuring 5 inches by 7.5 inches, they are an ideal fit for children under 10. However, keep in mind that they will likely be too snug for pre-teens or larger children.
Cubcoats Kids’ Convertible 2-in-1 Face Mask
More Difficult For Little Ones To Lose
Cubcoats has cleverly solved the “where is my mask?” problem. These masks fold up into a cute animal face that attaches to a wrist strap, allowing your child to wear it like a bracelet when they don’t need it on their face.
It is a brilliant design for kids who constantly drop or lose their gear. The material is soft cotton, and the elastic loops are thick and woven, which tends to be gentler on the backs of ears than thin rubber bands.
3-Ply Breathable Face Masks For Kids
Basic, Affordable, Cute And Comfy
For a reliable daily grab-and-go option, these 3-ply disposables are hard to beat. They feature the standard bendable nose clip and elastic loops you expect, but sized down for kids.
You can choose a box of 50 with mixed patterns like rockets, cars, and rainbows, or stick to a single design. The dimensions (3.6 x 5.6 inches) run on the smaller side, making these an excellent choice for younger children (ages 4 to 8) who often find “kid size” masks swimming on their faces.
USA Kid Children’s Face Masks
Made In The USA
These masks utilize 100 percent cotton quilting fabric, known for its tight weave and durability. They are constructed with two layers plus a filter pocket, giving you flexibility in protection levels.
The thick woven ear loops are a highlight here, offering comfort that thin elastic can’t match. The cotton remains soft even after repeated washings. The package includes five filters, which the manufacturer claims are high efficiency, adding value to the purchase right out of the box.
Access Denied Kids’ Reusable Face Mask
Stretchy Animal Face Fun
Sometimes comfort is the only way to get a child to keep a mask on. Made from a cotton-spandex blend, these masks are incredibly soft and stretchy. While they might not have the density of quilting cotton, they are much easier for some children to tolerate sensorially.
The animal face designs, like a dog with its tongue out, are fun and engaging. You can buy individual styles or a variety pack. It is a great “starter mask” for kids who are resistant to the feel of stiffer fabrics.
iUptown Chic Kids’ Face Masks
The Kids Mask You’ll Want For Yourself
These masks feel premium with three layers of 100 percent cotton. The structure is excellent, featuring a shaped design that cups the face naturally rather than lying flat and smashing the nose.
They are sized specifically for the 5-to-10-year-old demographic. The ear loops have adjusters, which is a must-have feature for getting a secure seal. They also hold up impressively well in the wash, retaining their bright colors and shape over time.
ICU Health Kids’ Mask with Zebra Pouch
A Great Emergency Measure
If your morning routine involves frantically searching for a mask, this set is for you. ICU Health packages ten standard blue disposable masks inside a handy zippered pouch.
The masks themselves are standard surgical-style quality sized for ages 5 to 10. The real winner is the pouch; you can toss the whole thing into your child’s backpack so they always have a fresh backup supply at school. It is a simple solution to a common parenting headache.
WeCare Disposable Kids’ Face Mask
Supporting Start-Ups
WeCare offers high-quality disposable masks that are individually wrapped. This is a huge plus for hygiene, allowing you to keep spares in your purse or car console without them collecting dust and lint.
They provide three layers of protection and are latex-free, which is essential for kids with sensitivities. Additionally, buying these supports a small business, so you can feel good about where your money is going while keeping your kids protected.
Pastel Cotton Mask
Best Fun Face Mask for Kids
These soft pastel colors are gentle and appealing, often working well for younger children who might be intimidated by bold, aggressive prints.
They are made from 100 percent cotton and feature adjustable ear loops, allowing for a tailored fit. There is a pocket included if you want to add a separate filter, though the mask functions perfectly well as a dual-layer cloth covering on its own.
Crayola Kids Face Mask
For You And Your Little Artist
Crayola brings their color expertise to face masks with these bright, cheerful options. They are sold in packs with different colors, which is great for assigning a specific color to a specific day of the week.
A standout feature is the inclusion of a mesh laundry bag, making it easy to wash them without the ear loops getting tangled in the machine. They fit most kids ages 4 to 10 comfortably. If you want to coordinate, you can even grab the adult size to match your mini-me.
Wild Republic Wild Smiles Face Mask
For Your Little Wild Child
Wild Republic masks tap into the power of pretend play. It is much easier to get a toddler to wear a mask if they get to “be” a tiger or a shark. The animal prints featuring teeth and snouts are a huge hit with imaginative kids.
Functionally, they are two-layer poly-cotton blends. Note that they lack a metal nose wire and the loops aren’t elastic, so the fit isn’t as customizable as others. However, if the design gets them to wear it, that is a win in our book.
Martex Health Face Mask
A Cost-Effective Trio
If you need a reliable backup stash for older kids, Martex offers a solid value. These three-packs are priced competitively, often costing the same as a single mask from other brands.
They use a cotton-polyester blend with a three-layer construction, offering decent thickness. While they lack a filter pocket and the ear loops aren’t adjustable, the standard fit works reasonably well for most pre-teens. They are a good utility choice to keep in the glove box.
La Textilerie Kids’ Face Mask
Super Soft Against Sensitive Skin
These masks are on the smaller side (2.9 by 5.5 inches), making them an excellent candidate for the under-10 crowd who often find standard masks too baggy.
The 100 percent cotton is incredibly soft, which is a major plus for kids with tactile sensitivities. However, be aware that they are treated with silver ions, a feature some parents appreciate for hygiene and others prefer to avoid. Also, take note: these require hand washing to prevent shrinking.
Buttonsmith Child Cotton Face Mask
Plain And Simple
Buttonsmith, a US-based company, offers a no-nonsense approach to masks. These are simple, two-layer cotton masks available in basic black or white, perfect for schools with strict dress codes regarding logos or patterns.
Pay close attention when ordering: they offer different styles. Some have filter pockets, others have adjustable loops, but they generally don’t combine all features in one mask. Make sure you select the specific configuration that matters most to you.
Snoozies Kids’ Face Mask
Fun Prints
Snoozies removes the guesswork from sizing by offering two distinct ranges: ages 2 to 4 and ages 5 to 10. This ensures you are much more likely to get a proper seal right out of the package.
These three-layer masks include a flexible metal nose bridge, which is key for preventing foggy glasses. They also come with filters included and are fully machine washable, making them a parent-friendly option for daily rotation.
What If My Kids Don’t Want to Wear Masks?
You can buy the most expensive, high-tech mask on the market, but it is useless if your child refuses to put it on. If you are facing resistance, here are a few strategies to turn the battle into a breeze.
Be A Role Model
Kids watch everything we do. If you complain about your mask or wear it under your nose, they will do the same. Let them see you wearing yours correctly and without fuss. Point out other people, superheroes in movies, doctors, or cool older cousins, who wear masks too.
Choose Masks Together
Autonomy is powerful. A child who picked out their own dinosaur or unicorn mask is significantly more likely to wear it than one you forced on them.
If you can’t find a design they like, grab some plain cotton masks and iron-on patches of their favorite characters. It turns a medical device into a personalized accessory.
Explain The “Why”
Skip the scary lectures about sickness. Instead, frame mask-wearing as an act of kindness. Use language they understand: “We wear masks to be superheroes and keep our friends and teachers safe.” It empowers them rather than frightening them.
Practice at Home
Don’t let the first time they wear a mask be on the way to school or the airport. Practice at home in low-stress situations. Have them wear it for 10 minutes while watching TV or playing video games. This helps them get used to the sensation while their brain is distracted by something fun.
Make It Fun
Normalize the look of masks by putting them on stuffed animals or dolls. We made makeshift masks out of paper towels and rubber bands for our teddy bears. Once the “toys” were doing it, our toddler decided it wasn’t so weird after all.
How Do You Make a Child-Friendly Face Mask?
You don’t need to be a master tailor to whip up a mask. This video tutorial breaks it down into simple, manageable steps that even a beginner can follow.
What Are the Measurements for a Child’s Face Mask?
While every child is different, a standard benchmark for a child’s mask is approximately 5.5 inches by 9.5 inches. However, always measure your child’s face from the bridge of the nose to under the chin to be sure.
FAQs
How Often Should I Wash My Child’s Cloth Mask?
You should wash cloth masks after every single use. If your child wears a mask to school, it needs to go into the laundry basket the moment they get home. It is best to have a rotation of at least 5 masks so you aren’t doing laundry every night.
Can Toddlers Wear N95 Masks?
Generally, no. N95 masks are designed for adult faces and require a very tight seal to work properly. They are unlikely to fit a toddler correctly, and the increased breathing resistance can be uncomfortable for very young children. Stick to breathable, multi-layer cloth or child-sized surgical masks.
How Do I Know If The Mask Fits Correctly?
The mask should cover the nose and mouth completely and extend under the chin. Check for gaps along the cheeks; if you can fit your finger easily between the mask and the face, it is too loose. The mask should stay in place when your child talks or moves their head.
Are Neck Gaiters Safe For Kids?
Neck gaiters are generally less effective than fitted masks because they are often made of thin, single-layer fabric. If you must use a gaiter, look for one that is doubled over (two layers) or has a specific filter pocket to increase protection.
Who Knew We’d Be Buying Kids’ Face Masks?
Navigating the world of kids’ face masks is a task most parents never expected to add to their to-do list. Between evolving guidelines and picky children, it can be a headache.
Hopefully, this guide has clarified what features actually matter. By focusing on fit, filtration, and comfort, you can find a mask that keeps your child safe without the daily struggle.
