With face masks becoming a government requirement earlier this year, it is surprising this study didn’t come sooner. However, last week the consumer’s association Which? published their guide to the best masks you can buy in UK. They also warned away from some masks, that actually are very ineffective.

Let’s take a look at the best two masks money can buy:

In first place is the NEQI reusable masks. They can be bought in packs of three for £15 (£5 per mask).

The mask has a three-layer construction captured 80% of bacteria in the first test, and then after five washes, still managed a very impressive 72%.

Testers also reported that it is easy to breathe in and is very comfortable with a mix of cotton, polyester and a touch of elastane The good fit also impressed the survey – perhaps because it is offered in a child size, as well as small, medium and large.

These masks are available to buy from both Boots and Ocado.

In a close second is the Bag of Ethics Great British Designers Face Coverings. This is definitely for the bold in our society with three bright, stand out designs to choose from – a design from each Halpburn, Mulberry and Raeburn.

This mask faired interestingly in the bacterial filtration test. It captured 72% in the first test but after five washes this actually increased to 73% as the fibres compressed slightly.

It was the most breathable out of all the masks, with a nose wire to ensure a snug fit. They suggest each mask is good for around 50 uses.

The trade-offs with this mask is firstly the fact that it is only double layered. It was also mentioned that the earlobes have an adjustable function, and although the idea seems good, it is actually very difficult and fiddly to get right.

The masks are the same price as the winner – £15 for three. Although, profits from the sales go to charity.

This mask is available in John Lewis, Boots, Sainsbury’s, Argos, Waitrose and direct from Bags of Ethics.

So, now that you know where to buy the bests masks to protect yourself in comfort and style. What are the masks to avoid?

The £2 Termin8 lightweight and breathable mask is rated the worst. It may be lightweight and breathable, but that’s because it is not giving much protection at all. It is only one layer and so the bacterial filtration was poor with very few particles being captured. It was also not compatible with glasses wearers, leading to a lot of ‘fogging’.

On a similar level is the Asda white patterned face masks for only £3 each. This mask only filtered a third of the particles in tests – marginally better than no mask at all, but not by much. Asda has currently removed this mask from sale following the study to investigate.

However, one of the bigger issues surrounding face masks is for those who are hard of hearing. Many rely on lip reading to communicate and masks make that impossible.

Rita Rizla from Rainham said: “I avoid going out on my own now, even shopping can be so hard because I can’t tell when people are talking to me so I seem rude. My daughter wears the masks with the clear plastic window but even that isn’t great because it can steam up or the light can stop me from seeing her lips properly. It’s just so so tough.”

Another group struggling with adjusting to life with masks is those in the Autistic community.

For those with Autism, sensory issues can cause a lot of problems, and the feeling of fabric against their skin can be extremely irritating. This group is exempt but some feel nervous being out without a mask on; for their own protection, but also for the perception by others.

Steven Wells suffers with sensory issues and prefers not to wear a mask as it can cause extreme anxiety. He also has to use public transport every day to commute to his work in Canterbury.

He said: “Masks are essential on trains and so if I’m having a good day I will always try to wear my mask. Sometimes it can be really hard because if I need to take it off to stop myself freaking out, other commuters give me horrible looks.

“I can tell they’re judging me but that just makes my anxious spell worse.”

Some local skilled sewers have put their skills to the test during the pandemic. Many made a business out of making unique masks for bespoke orders and some have been very successful.

Michelle’s Masks in Kent has taken off as a small business, now even bringing out a new ‘Christmas range’. She offers a range of fabrics and each mask is only £4.

Michelle Logan, the mastermind behind the business said that she started the business to support local care homes when PPE was running short. After getting a lot of praise it was a “no brainer”.

She said: “I just like the idea that people can personalise it, make it a part of their outfit. Every mask is double layered and I offer the option for a filter pocket. At the end of the day, I have fun making them and seeing people love the end result so it’s a win win.”

At the University of Kent, masks are mandatory on campus. I asked the newsroom why they bought the mask they’re wearing. Is the emphasis on fashion, safety, price or just the first one they could see on the shelf?

WATCH: