Where to Find Cloth Masks in Lowell, Michigan

Photo courtesy of Laura Judge

Earlier this month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended people wear cloth face masks while out in public. While not mandatory, wearing a mask is thought to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially in coronavirus hot spots.

However, the CDC doesn’t want people wearing personal protective equipment intended for health care workers, such as n95 masks. Since those masks are in short supply, the government wants them reserved for those working on the frontlines in medical facilities and as first responders. Even if you wanted to wear a medical grade facemask, you’d be hard pressed to find one for sale nowadays.

The current recommendation is for people to wear cloth masks or a similar facial covering. The CDC notes on its website:

A cloth face covering is not intended to protect the wearer, but it may prevent the spread of virus from the wearer to others. This would be especially important if someone is infected but does not have symptoms.

Even if you don’t feel sick, a recent study has shown people with COVID-19 may be most contagious one to two days before symptoms appear. Wearing a cloth mask is a proactive way to avoid the spread of germs. Masks are not considered a substitute for other social distancing practices though, and people wearing masks should still try to remain 6 feet away from others and wash their hands frequently.

To be effective, the CDC says masks should fit snugly, but comfortably, against the side of your face. Masks made with multiple layers of cloth are best but make sure your mask doesn’t restrict breathing. Both your mouth and nose should be covered. Masks should not be worn by children younger than age two, those with breathing problems or anyone who is unable to remove a mask on their own. Laundering cloth masks in a washing machine is adequate to clean them.

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Find Masks Locally in Lowell, Michigan

If you’d like to start wearing a cloth mask, the CDC offers instructions on how to make one at home. There are also a number of local companies and seamstresses in Lowell offering masks to residents.

If you or someone you know is making masks and would like to be added to the following list, please email us at [email protected]. To obtain a mask from one of these sources, contact the person or company via the method mentioned below.

Addix

Addix normally makes sports uniforms, but they have switched to masks for the time being. Their masks are available in two sizes and are made of a breathable micro-polyester mock mesh. The cost is $12.99 for a single mask plus shipping charges. Order on the Addix website.

Capital Nails

This Lowell salon has already made and donated 1,250 masks to essential workers. Masks are also available to the general public for a $5 donation although a larger donation will help the salon purchases additional supplies for more masks. No-contact porch pick-up is available in Lowell. To place an order, send a message via the Capital Nails Facebook page.

Laura Dey Leasure

Masks made by Laura Dey Leasure include a sleeve for filtering material, such as a coffee filter. They can be purchased for $5, and porch pickup is available. To order, email Laura at [email protected] or send her a message via Facebook.

Lisa Therese Benson

Local artist Lisa Therese Benson is offering a variety of cup-style masks in fun fabrics in her Etsy shop. She can also make surgical-style masks if requested. Her masks cost $9.99 each plus shipping. Lisa mentions that she is not trying to make money off the masks but recover her costs. You can order through the LisaThereseBenson Esty shop.

Laura Cook Brower

Photo courtesy of Laura Cook Brower

Laura Cook Brower is making masks for men, women and children for $3 apiece. They have sewn in filters, a wire nose piece and elastic ear wrap. Send Laura a direct message through her Facebook page to order.

Crafts by Sharon Mac

If you live in Lowell, you can pick up a free mask from Crafts by Sharon Mac. Masks can also be shipped for the price of postage. Visit the Crafts by Sharon Mac Facebook page to see available patterns and send a direct message through the site to order.

Jerri Young

Jerri Young is another local seamstress making masks. She is asking for a donation to cover costs, but one isn’t necessary to receive a mask. Email her at [email protected] to request one.

Barb Dey Porter

With elastic being in short supply, Barb Dey Porter is making her masks with ties. Cost is $5 per mask. Payment can be made electronically, and porch pick-up in Lowell is available. Email Barb at [email protected] to order.

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