As we head into another cold and flu season, the rate of infection is starting to climb. And although things don’t appear to be quite to the level of 2020/21, people are once again looking for free face masks online before they hop on an airplane or visit at-risk family members.
So, where do you even find free face masks online in 2023/24? Are places even still offering them? The good news is, yes they are — and we’ll tell you what we know.
While you’re hanging out with us, check out our article about the latest round of new free Covid tests the government is giving out.
Here’s what you need to know:
Nonprofit Project N95 offers free face masks weekly.
If you’re in need of masks and can’t afford them, Project N95 is a group that may be able to help you out. They offer free masks to those who really need them. Let’s walk through how to request your free masks:
Check the Website
First things first, go to Project N95’s website. They have a special page just for people who need masks. Sometimes they hit their weekly limit for mailing out free masks, so make sure to keep an eye on the page to see when they’re accepting new requests.
Fill Out the Form
On the website, you’ll find a form that asks about the type of mask you need. Fill in all the blanks. They especially want to help people who have health issues or are taking care of someone who does.
Wait for a Reply
After you fill out the form, Project N95 will take a look at it. They’ll get in touch with you if they can send you the masks you need. If you see that they’ve hit their weekly limit for masks, keep an eye out — they update the website regularly to let folks know when they’re ready to accept new requests for masks.
Check your local pharmacy; many still have free N95 masks available from the government.
Back in 2022, the Biden Administration announced that they’d be distributing millions of N95 face masks to Walgreens, CVS, and other national and local pharmacies. If your pharmacy still has inventory, you’d be able to grab 3 masks per person. But it’s been so long, that exact inventory at your local pharmacy will vary.
Also: These are adult-sized masks; no kid masks are included in this program.
N95 masks regularly cost up between $0.75 – $3.50 each.
N95 masks online are a lot more available than they were back in 2021, but just know — you’re going to spend at least $15.00 because they come in packs, typically 2-10.
The government is also offering free Covid-19 tests.
If you haven’t already, be sure to sign up for your free at-home Covid-19 tests from the government. There are no additional shipping fees and will start shipping late Jan.
Learn how to make your own mask out of a T-shirt
You’ve probably got the supplies lying around, and if you’re anything like me, then you have about five T-shirts that you’ll never wear again… why not upcycle them into a useful and cheap mask?
Hang with us, and we’ll show you how to make your own mask in 10 easy steps.
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