Since the start of COVID-19, consumers’ spending on masks has significantly increased. Besides, increasing pollution and dust are also prompting people to use face masks. Due to which, according to OMR Research, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 23.8% during the forecast period of 2023–2029.
Reusable face masks are made from different types of materials, such as cotton, nylon, plastic, and others. These materials protect the wearer from pollutants, viruses, and bacteria, among others. Some companies offer face masks with extra durability. For instance, WPI (World Precision Instruments), a laboratory product manufacturer, offers the S9 self-priming respirator, which is an essential component of personal protective equipment (PPE). The S9 is a KN95-compliant, reusable industrial face mask. This means that it can block more than 95% of all particulate matter larger than 2 meters in size in the air. Moreover, the mask’s filters can be changed according to the user's needs, and it can be cleaned using hot water or either alcohol. The company claims that the mask is equivalent to 20 disposable masks. Such product offerings by companies contribute to the market's continued growth.
Segments of the Market
The global reusable face mask market is divided on the basis of material, application, and distribution channel. Based on material, the market is subdivided into cotton, nylon, and others. Based on application, it is subdivided into commercial and personal. Based on distribution channel, the market is subdivided into online and offline.
Recent Developments
The market’s key players, including Cambridge Mask Co., Debrief Me, GPC Medical Ltd., idMASK, Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc., Honeywell International, Inc., Labtech Disposables, Moldex-Metric, Mahavir Packaging Industries, Respro Inc., and Totobobo, among others, are contributing to the market’s growth with various mergers, acquisitions, investments, and new product launch activities. The recent activities in the market include:
• In May 2022, Honeywell International Inc., an advanced technology company that offers products in four segments: aerospace, performance materials and technologies, building technologies, and safety and productivity solutions, announced the launch of two new NIOSH-certified respiratory offerings for healthcare workers. These new products include the DC365 Small Surgical N95 Respirator for someone who needs a smaller surgical N95 and the RU8500X Respirator that is useful for long work shifts. The RU8500X Respirator provides high-performing protection (99.9%) and source control to healthcare workers and those around them due to its filtered exhalation valve and a HEPA P100 filter.
• In February 2022, UNIQLO, Japan’s popular apparel brand, launched its new AIRism 3D Mask. The company claims that this mask is more breathable and comfortable to wear for a long time, and the wearer can easily talk in it. The mask has a triple-layer structure and ear adjusters. A non-woven filter in the middle layer provides 99% bacterial filtration efficiency, blocking droplets, virus-contaminated particles, bacteria, and pollen. The inside layer, which is in contact with the wearer’s skin, is made of smooth and silky AIRism fabric in a design that reduces friction and provides comfort.
• In August 2021, Prolexus Group, a high-performance sports apparel brand, launched its ProXmask in Malaysia. It is the first fabric mask to obtain product certification from SIRIM QAS International. ProXmask mask has been tested and found to be 99% antiviral against coronaviruses and bacteria. Its water repellency provides effective protection against respiratory droplets containing viruses and bacteria. ProXmask’s micro-filtration technology offers 95% BFE (Bacteria Filtration Efficiency) and PFE (Particle Filtration Efficiency). It is also washable and reusable up to 60 times, making it an eco-friendly product.
• In 2022, LG Electronics launched its new wearable air purifier face mask called PuriCare. The LG PuriCare Wearable Air Purifier includes HEPA filters, IPX4 technology, dual fans, Voice ON, and other features. The wearable air purifier is a novel solution for providing clean and pure air on the go.
Conclusion
Reusable face masks are durable, breathable, made from skin-friendly materials, economical in the long run compared to disposable masks, and eco-friendly. All these factors increase their demand in the market. Additionally, with the growth of the e-commerce platform and the internet, the sales of reusable face masks have grown notably. The market players are also launching new reusable masks on the market with various features and benefits. For instance, customers can now purchase customized face masks with their names and initials on them, cartoon character masks, and others. Besides, companies are also offering reusable face masks that can last for several years and offer extra protective filters and covers. Such factors are assisting in the growth of the market significantly.