No Disposables: Reusable Batik Face Masks

When the new year rang, many of us began with hopes of bidding the year of COVID farewell. However, the enforcement of lockdowns in major cities and ongoing restrictions across the globe has made it painfully apparent that the virus didn’t get the message to stay out of 2021. 

It looks like we’re going to be wearing face masks for a while, which is all the more reason to find one that keeps you safe and, well, stylish too. 

First, here’s what the experts are saying about the fundamentals of a reusable mask: 

1. Fabric: Filtering experiments have shown that mask fabrics made of tightly woven, 100% cotton performs better than most synthetics. The three-dimensional structure of cotton fibres provides more of a barrier against incoming and outgoing particles. 
2. Fit: A mask is considered a good fit if it covers your nose and chin, with no gaps along the side of the mask. It is also encouraged to use a mask with a moldable nose strip to seal the top end of the mask and to hold it in place. 
3. Thickness: A good fabric mask will have at least two layers of fabric made of tightly-woven materials. For additional protection, a third layer and a filter are recommended.

Given the amount of real estate a mask takes up on our face, the team at Batik Boutique set out to design the face mask of our (COVID-friendly) fashion. Safe, breathable and reusable face masks.

WHO compliant, our reusable face masks go beyond the fundamentals. Here’s how:

1. Protects people

All of our face masks have nose wires and offer elastic behind the ear, around the head, or with adjustable straps. This ensures a snug fit that sits comfortably against every face. 

Our three-ply mask (with an optional fourth layer) also uses various materials for filtering and breathability like cotton, polyester, and non-woven filters. All of our batik face masks use 100% natural cotton fibre which allows for breathing without restriction. In addition to this, our masks were also tested to meet the qualification for the European particle filtration standard EN 149:2001 FFP1.

Additionally, our KL Skyline masks tested with a particle filtration level equivalent to N95 masks. 

2. Protects the planet

In the wake of the pandemic, millions have been told to use a face mask but little guidance has been provided on how to dispose of them. This creates yet another challenge for our planet. 

We’re advocates for reusable face masks for this very reason. Our face masks can be machine washed and dried without damage or change to its shape. Beyond this, our masks come packaged in a biodegradable, 100% cornstarch bag; making it the perfect storage pouch for your mask between uses.

3. Protects our community

The production of our products provides women from marginalised communities with the opportunity to continue earning a sustainable income during the ongoing Covid-19 crisis. 

The fabric used in our face masks is also handmade by local artisans from the East Coast of Malaysia. Our unique, authentic batik pieces are rich in Malaysian heritage; every purchase of a mask goes toward conserving our cultural heritage and economically empowering our artisans.

You can be confident that every product you purchase from Batik Boutique directly benefits the 5 -10 artisans who made it.

On the hunt for a safe and stylish mask? Look no further. We’re here to help you look, feel and do good. Shop our range of reusable fabric face masks available in various styles and sizes, even masks for kids. 

If you’re looking for corporate gifts or a gift with purchase promotion for your brand, we offer a variety of gifts, including our face masks, in customisable prints, colours and branding. Learn more about our corporate gifting or talk to us today.