Whilst the UK’s Coronavirus vaccination programme has allowed a significant easing of restrictions since the COVID-19 pandemic hit Ruddington early in 2020, including the recent removal of temporary ‘Plan B’ rules imposed after fears about the ‘Omicron’ variant, the wish to continue keeping ourselves and others safe has made wearing face coverings in certain public places a ‘new normal’ in our everyday lives.
Concerns about the environment have also led many of us to dump disposable face masks in favour of more comfortable, washable alternatives which we can use again and again. Michelle Cain and her twin sister Lisa Barnaby – with a combined 40 years’ experience in fashion retail, design and production – have another sister who ended up at home ‘shielding’ as a clinically extremely vulnerable person when the Coronavirus outbreak began.
“We were really concerned about her and the unavailability of good quality protective face masks” recalls Michelle. “So we brainstormed together – and Britmask was born! We embarked on a lengthy research and development process merging our expertise to create a great product that protects. It was important to us that we bring to market not only a mask that’s extremely protective but also comfortable, washable and reusable.”
The duo created and tested many prototypes to achieve their highly regarded, unisex masks; which feature a ribbed structure around the nose for ergonomic fit, a very breathable and quick-drying material called ‘Dry Yarn’ – known for its anti-bacterial properties – and soft comfort ear loops. Each mask can also have an additional filter inserted, if required, for even greater protection against airborne particles.
“Our plain colour Britmasks have been fully tested to CE standards” Michelle explains. “On top we add two premium material finishes: HeiQ Ecodry which is a water-repellent treatment and HeiQ ViroBlock which is antibacterial treatment that has been tested successfully against flu and the COVID series of virus. Both of these finishes last throughout the wash – and our masks are colourfast at 60 degrees.”
With Ruddington-based Britmask now well established, they stock an impressive range of adult, teen and children’s sizes available in a variety of colours. Their face coverings can also be personalised with names and monograms for a special gift, or have your company logo added – with discounts for corporate customers making bulk purchases.
Not only that, 2022 brings a new product range for Britmask, too, including leather bags and accessories, jewellery, hand-poured soy candles & massage candles, organic shampoo bars, pillow mist, body scrub, lip balms, bath salts and other lifestyle products – all designed in-house using sustainable practises.
Britmask’s complete range of products may be viewed and purchased via their website www.britmask.co.uk. You can also look out for their stall at Ruddington’s monthly village market – with the next Market being held on Saturday March 5th from 9.00am until 12.30pm on The Green.
