Where To Buy Face Masks in the Caribbean

UPDATED APRIL 28, 2020

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, there’s no substitute for staying at home as much as you can, practicing social distancing, and frequent hand washing. But the CDC now says that wearing a “cloth face covering” may also be a good way to help prevent asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic people from passing the virus to others. And here in Miami, we’re now required to wear them in public places.

You can find plenty of online tutorials showing how to sew your own face mask. Nassau, Bahamas-based creative Nadine Ramphal has a good one, here. On the CDC’s site, the United States Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams demonstrates how you can fashion a no-sew version from fabric you probably already have at home and a pair of rubber bands or hair ties, here. But if you’re in the Caribbean and want something readymade, check out these options from vendors across the region, who’ve got you (ahem) covered! Just remember to wash them before first use and again after each time you wear them. (Hmm … maybe you’re gonna need a few!)

NOTE: I’ll be updating this list as I receive more information. If you are (or know of) a Caribbean maker who should be included on this list, please email me using the contact form on the site. Thank you.

ANGUILLA

Gilda Samuel’s handmade cotton masks (in two styles) are reversible and available in African prints and bright colors. Customers can choose between elastic ear loops or ties. To order, call 246-476-2944 or email gildasamuel@gmail.com. US$8

ANTIGUA

AMK Fashions’ three-ply cotton masks come in a variety of patterned and plain fabrics and can be ordered via WhatsApp at (268) 788-7931. EC$15.

BARBADOS

Made from double-ply African-print cotton with elastic straps, Bajiiplus’ adult masks are available via home delivery. WhatsApp them at (246) 236-0630 to make arraangements. bajiiplus.com; BDS$20

ST. KITTS

Caribelle Batik has stepped up to the plate and is selling cotton face masks in their signature prints. Pick yours up at the rear of Island Hopper furniture warehouse (opposite Hertz), between 1pm and 3pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays only. Call 662-7318 for more information. EC$25 or US$10; cash only.

ST. LUCIA

Known for her “moodcords,” Kim Charlery is now making masks that are every bit as colorful as her distinctive Bandbox statement necklaces. thebandboxofficial.com; US$5.99

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

Bequia-based designer Shari Ollivierre is known for her Wadada brand of handbags and accessories, and now she’s applying her talent to face masks. The three-ply masks have a pocket for a filter and come in an array of Ankara fabrics. Pick up is available directly from the designer on Bequia, or masks can also be sent by ferry to neighboring islands. EC$20

TRINIDAD

ShopShari’s double-layered masks are reversible and feature a slot for filters. A three-pack is TT$150; five-packs are TT$200. Have them delivered to your doorstep for an extra TT$40. shopshari.com

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

Cheryl Forbes’ home-based sewing business, And Sew On, has expended to produce masks from fabric remnants. And for each two sold, Forbes donates one to those in need. Email your order to thesewingmachine@hotmail.com. US$7.50

JAMAICA

Kingston-based shirt maker Mark Anthony is turning his hand to making reversible face masks in a variety of fabrics, from camouflage to floral. WhatsApp him at 876-283-7758 for availability and prices.

Fashion and function combine in Keneea Linton’s double-ply neoprene masks, which feature webbing straps and pockets for disposable filters. Email info@keneealinton.com for available styles and pricing.

Available in a variety of solid and printed fabrics, masks from bag designer Andrea Sinclair’s 2QuteCollection are three-ply with a middle layer of non-woven fabric, eliminating the need for a separate filter. Order via WhatsApp at 876-445-4495; J$500

Head to My Jamaica’s Liguanea Plaza store to pick up a few of their masks, which cost J$300. (Current opening hours are Monday to Saturday, 9am to 3pm, but check before you go!)

Reversible fabric masks in bold and colorful prints are available from Tasha and Tianne Fashions by calling 876-366-4452 to arrange pickup. They’re priced at J$500 for two or J$1,000 for three, and designer Simone Gordon asks that you give the extra one to someone in need.

Kids’- and adult-sized reversible cotton masks are available by appointment between 11a.m. and 4p.m. from Kingston designer Heather Laine. Call 876-968-5196 or WhatsApp 876-247-0171. J$500

Mandi Taylor’s pre-washed cotton-blend masks are double-ply and have a wire insert on the bridge of the nose so you can customize the fit. Available in adults’ and kids’ sizes by calling 876-512-1902 or via WhatsApp at 876-313-1696. Delivery available. J$500 each or J$1,200/three for adults; J$400 for kids

Designer Tamia Carey’s face masks, sold singly and by the dozen, are made of cotton with vibrant Ankara prints. Island-wide delivery available via Knutsford Express. Call 876-582-1793 to order. J$500

UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS

Adding to her collection of island-themed home and personal accessories, St. John-based Ali Norton, proprietor of Hibiscus Jazz, is currently making cotton masks. Order online at hibiscusjazz.com; US$10

On St. Croix, Designs By Regal is donating a mask for each one sold. Surgical style masks are double-ply cotton and feature a slip pocket for a filter. N95-style masks are also available, and both styles come in adults’ and children’s sizes. Order through their Etsy page; US$12