The Best Kids' Face Masks of 2026

Written by
Anna Lane, former Reviewed parenting editor and stand-up comedian, now known as homeowner, pool owner, and Mom.
Janelle Randazza, seasoned product-tester, avid shopper, and expert gift-giver.

Updated April 3, 2024

Editor’s Note: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that different kinds of masks and respirators provide different levels of protection against COVID-19. Loosely woven cloth products provide the least protection, while well-fitting disposable surgical masks and KN95s offer more protection. Well-fitting NIOSH-approved respirators (including N95s) offer the highest level of protection.

If you're the parent of children over the age of 3, chances are that you've spent the better part of the last couple of years listening to a lot of whining about having to wear a face mask. Hey, I get it: There's very little that's fun about covering your nose and mouth with a piece of fabric—especially when it's hot outside. But the reality is that masks are likely here to stay for a while, so it's important for kids to have a comfortable mask that they won't complain about too much.

We know that you’re busy so we went ahead and researched the best face masks for kids- that they’ll actually want to wear.

Vida Kids' KN95 Masks

These kid-sized masks are made of three layers that claim to block 95% of bacterial and viral particles. Tested by an independent laboratory and approved by physicians, they are also touted by reviewers as being comfortable and breathable and kids will love that they come with nontoxic decals for personalization. These come with an adjustable nose wire, are responsibly made and recyclable. They do not come with adjustable ear loops, but that can easily be remedied by tying knots in the loops or by purchasing separate toggles to customize the fit.

Pros

• Eco-friendly

• 5-layer filtration

Cons

• Ear loops aren't adjustable

Evolvetogether Kids' Face Masks

According to Vida's website, these masks are “kid-tested and doctor-approved.” They are also made in the USA with an eye towards sustainability: Each order includes a prepaid return label so you can send your used masks to be recycled.

The five-layer filtration system offers 98.3% efficiency, according to Collins’ testing, and their metal nose wire ensures a snug fit. These masks don’t offer adjustable ear loops.

Pros

• Adjustable nose wire

• Recyclable

Cons

• Ear loops aren't adjustable

Well + Before Kids KN95 Masks

These are listed as “petite,” but there are still three distinct sizes, so be sure to measure and pick the right one. Made with five layers of protection including two melt-blown layers, Collins tested these as having 99.1% filtration. The company claims that the masks are certified KN95 (and certification is available via email).

Reviewers say these masks are soft yet strong and they praise the sturdy nose clip, adjustable ear loops and excellent breathability. What’s more, these are some of the best-priced masks around, and you can even subscribe to get a continuous flow of fresh masks delivered monthly.

Pros

• Adjustable ear loops

• Great price

Cons

• None that we could find

Powecom Kids KN95-SM Masks

These masks are the closest thing we found to a true N95 for kids. They can be found widely on the internet, however it’s highly recommended that you purchase them from a reputable supplier, like Bona Fide Masks, where they should arrive with an “anti-fake” label to verify authenticity. Powecom used to have emergency authorization for its KN95 masks, so they do produce masks of the highest quality and with exceptional filtration of over 97%.

Pros

• Over 97% filtration rate

• Adjustable nose piece

Cons

• Ear loops aren't adjustable

• Easy to find dupes

What You Should Know About Buying Face Masks dor Kids

It Needs to Fit

If the mask doesn't fit well, your kid is going to spend all day fussing with it, and that means they're not likely to want to wear it again in the future. Not to mention the fact that an ill-fitting mask that doesn't cover the nose and the mouth is one that won't do much to protect anyone from a virus. The key is to look for a mask that's specifically sized for kids and that features adjustable ear loops.

Your Kid Should Like It

It's a lot harder to convince a kid to wear something that they don't like, and that's especially true with face masks. Find a brand that offers plenty of appealing kid-friendly prints, and let them select the ones they're most excited to wear every day. Never underestimate the power of a child's buy-in.

Comfort

School days are long, and school days with a mask can feel even longer. Your child is going to be way more enthusiastic about going to school in a mask if they have one that doesn't hurt their ears or make them feel like they're gasping for breath. Plus, kids who live in perennially warm climates will want a face mask that doesn't feel thick or make them sweat too much.

More Articles You Might Enjoy

• The Best Kids' Backpacks
• The Best Lunch Boxes for Kids
• How to get kids with sensory needs to wear a mask
• 11 quick and easy school lunch ideas that aren't sandwiches