Halloween has probably been the only day in the pandemic so far where masks have felt entirely normal and welcome in your daily routine. And while you likely own a collection of cloth-based masks by now (or have made some yourself!), shopping for a new face mask to complete your Halloween costume idea is a must, especially if you're planning on attending block parties or costumed events inside.
These fun, whimsical, and seriously spooky options for Halloween will make health concerns around gathering in public spaces less frightening. And if you're on the hunt for a last-minute Halloween costume, some of these masks can be used to take a DIY look to the next level, from a bunch of closet staples to a spooky, hilarious moment with friends and family.
Current guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention don't require vaccinated adults to wear masks in uncrowded outdoor spaces, but have asked Americans to wear masks while inside and around other individuals. If a Halloween party is on your list this year, holding it outside is best, but adding in a mask can help drastically reduce COVID-19 risks for any guest who is unvaccinated. And leading childcare experts have mandated that children wear masks whenever possible, so wearing a mask is a courtesy to any younger guests in your vicinity (even if you're already vaccinated).
"The best thing you can do to reduce your risk is to limit your interaction with others as much as possible… Make sure you and your kids are wearing face coverings that cover the nose and mouth," advises Molly Hyde, MHS, CIC, an infection control practitioner in Maryland-based GBMC Healthcare. "If you [plan to] hand out candy in person, make sure you are wearing a face covering over your nose and mouth when giving out candy."
With the help of Lexie Sachs, the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles Director, we've analyzed dozens of reusable and disposable face masks that are aesthetically designed for the upcoming season. These picks are made with breathable, functional materials, are sure to fit snugly against your nose and mouth and will complete any Halloween look during the pandemic.