Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s affected Black and Latinx people far more than white people in the U.S. — which only serves to highlight the systemic racism, in the healthcare system and elsewhere, that has plagued us much longer than this virus. Why, then, shouldn’t Black-owned businesses get a fair share of the profit as we try to prevent the further spread of the coronavirus? That’s why we’re happy to present this list of the best kids face masks available from Black-owned businesses.
As with our other lists of face masks for children, we searched for the reusable cloth coverings that promise to be both comfortable and super cute. These masks feature favorite characters for the little ones (no younger than 2 years old, of course), and gorgeous prints and brilliant colors for the children with more sophisticated tastes. Those designs go a long way in convincing children to strap them onto their faces, especially during summer. Breathable fabrics and adjustable straps are essential, too. If your kid is constantly adjusting their face masks or taking them off to breathe, that’s definitely going to defeat their purpose.
Perhaps best of all, a lot of these mask designers offer their attractive designs in adult sizes too, so your whole family can go out in style while showing how much you care about keeping your community healthy.
Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.
A version of this story was originally published in July 2020.
Pretty Dope Vinyl
Your child won’t just feel like a superhero in this mask; they’re being a real-life superhero by wearing a mask and stopping the spread of germs. “My son loved his mask! It’s very important to have representation! Thanks,” one customer wrote on Pretty Dope’s Etsy page. Pretty Dope Vinyl also sells pirate-, dance-, and mermaid-themed masks with Black characters.
KeneDBoutique
You might not be able to chew gum in class, but at least you can still pretend with this fun bubble gum girl print! “I ordered this for my 5 year old daughter, and this is her new favorite,” one customer wrote. Another customer expressed how soft and comfortable the face mask is on her and her daughter.
Kyndhal Kreates
From Spiderman and unicorns to rainbows and Cinderella, these character-covered masks let your child head out into the world safe and in style. Let them choose their own face mask as an accessory to their school uniform or everyday attire.
Keeley Studio Mask
Not only will your kids be drawn to these comics-inspired prints, but they also serve a practical purpose. They’re reversible, with a different fabric on each side, so you will always know which side was on your kid’s mouth and which was exposed to the air around them.
Yeshorra Designz Black Lives Matter Mask
Getting a Black Lives Matter mask from a Black-owned business just makes sense. Yeshorra Designz kids masks come with other messages, too, like “No Justice No Peace.”
Anzhelika Crochet Anchor Mask
Don’t worry about the name — these are masks made from cotton fabric, not crocheted with yarn! The form-fitting design is extra comfy on kids’ faces and stays in place.
Kay Kastle Children’s Character Mask
If you’ve got a fan of Disney princesses, The Incredibles, or Sky from Paw Patrol, you are in luck! These simple masks with elastic ear loops will be hiding some big smiles.
AlphViz Designs Superhero Mask
Georgia-based (by way of Togo) designer Alphonse Viza makes some gorgeous masks for adults, but decided to go a more commercial route for his kids masks. Spongebob, Spider-Man, dogs, and fire trucks may be more your kid’s speed than traditional African prints.
Queen Stitched Designs Disney Mask
Why, yes, those are Doc McStuffins and Tiana masks. There are so many beloved characters for your kids to choose from in this Etsy shop, you’ll be set until the end of the pandemic.
Lilla Barn Kids Face Mask
These handmade pleated, tie-on masks seem like they’d make great interior design accessories when all this is over. Lilla Barn isn’t Black-owned, but if you purchase the masks through Kido Chicago, you’re supporting the Black-owned toy and clothing boutique.
Mixed Up Clothing Kids Mask
Hawaii-based Mexican and African American founder Sonia Smith-Kang has found prints as varied as her background for the masks that are available in adult and kid sizes. We are partial to anything that features a burro.
Aloha Glamour African Print Mask
The African print masks from this “Afro-Waiian” boutique are so brilliant, your kids will be disappointed to have to take them off. Don’t pick a favorite just yet — you will get a randomly selected pattern when you buy one of these ear-loop-style masks, which are available in adult sizes too.
Shon Simon Face Mask
The Los Angeles clothing wholesaler makes masks from eco-friendly, antimicrobial, silky fabric with stretchy ear loops. At this price, you can buy many of these super affordable masks for the whole family.
Culture. Confidence. Soul. Mask
This mask celebrates Black hair, as well as all the awesomeness inside its wearer. The Black lifestyle company sells out of masks quickly, so act fast to grab this one.
Gideon’s Needle African Print Mask
The bespoke clothing company has crafted these cloth face coverings to be shaped like N95 masks. The fabric is printed in West Africa and sewn in New Jersey, with pockets for filters.
Aso + Asa by Noel B. Craft Mask
Some kids will never be content with artwork they haven’t created themselves. This white cotton mask comes with crayons, so they can create and wear their own masterpiece.
Adia Jamille Mask
Textile artist Jamille puts a little flair into her stitching on these beautiful three-layer cotton masks, which come in children’s and adult sizes. The tie-on ear straps ensure a comfortable, secure fit.
N. Smith Mask
People are snatching up masks made by this Toronto-based designer faster than we can write this copy. Maybe you’ll have luck with finding one of these Disney masks in stock, or maybe you’ll love something else they’ve made.
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