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.
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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.
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Mask Case Mask Box
face mask case mask case , from $5; amazon.com
Loloooocare Silicone Face Mask Storage Case
face mask case loloooocare , $8; amazon.com
Caraa Single Mask Pouch
face mask case caraa pouch , $15; caraasport.com
RELATED: Lanyards for Face Masks Are Actually a Good Idea, According to a Doctor
Nunubebe Mask Hygiene Storage Case
face mask case nunubebe , $10; amazon.com
LoveMarieEmbroidery Face Mask Pouch
face mask case etsy pouch , $5; etsy.com
Boao Store Plastic Face Covering Storage Box
face mask case boao , $27 for 6; amazon.com
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LuckyplanetUS Antibacterial Film Mask Keeper Pouch
face mask case etsy holder (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.
To buy: LuckyplanetUS Antibacterial Film Mask Keeper Pouch, $4; etsy.com
Sun Nomad Store Portable UV Light Box
face mask case sun nomad , $45; amazon.com
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