Join us in the fight against COVID-19
Eastern Accents is proud to announce that we are using our resources to produce cloth facemasks in an effort to contribute to the fight to stop COVID-19. After receiving several requests we have also made them available for purchase, with a portion of proceeds contributing to our donation drive.
With a reduced manufacturing staff, spread out in observance of social distancing recommendations, we have been producing up to 1,000 masks per day. Donations will be distributed to select Chicago hospitals, medical professionals and other institutions in need.
Eastern Accents cloth facemasks are crafted from soft, padded, breathable 100% cotton fabric: textiles that would otherwise have become cozy blankets or throws. Two adjustable elastic bands fasten at the base of the head and just above the ears, as regular behind-ear bands can cause irritation to long-time wearers. Their nose covers are contoured, reducing any gap between the wearer's nose and cheek. The masks are machine-washable and reusable.
Our hope is that these cloth facemasks will be safe, comfortable, and appealing alternatives to the facemasks currently in short supply. That said, it is important to emphasize that they are not suitable replacements for medical-grade masks and do not meet FDA requirements for surgical or N95 respirator masks. The cloth mask gives limited protection from airborne irritants, prevent the wearer from touching their mouth and nose, and stop droplets of the wearer's saliva and other moisture from contaminating the surrounding air. We hope they will be a great help to first responders and other essential workers on the frontline of this pandemic.