For every mask purchased, Roots will donate a portion of the proceeds to the Black Coalition for AIDS Prevention (Black CAP), Canada’s largest Black specific AIDS service organization.

Roots Lightweight Avonlea Reusable Face Mask is a washable and reusable non-medical mask, meant as an additional measure you can take to protect others around you, without needing to use medical masks that should be reserved for frontline workers. It features lightweight jersey and broadcloth fabric, which is woven from lighter, thinner yarns for breathability. The mask is designed with four layers of fabric to create its body and the filter pocket. All masks are handmade in Canada at our Toronto Leather Factory, where we’ve repurposed our manufacturing operations to help fight the spread of COVID-19. The mask also has a slip pocket that can be used to place a filter material within, including any kind of HEPA filter, which may improve effectiveness. Face masks can become contaminated on the outside, or when touched by your hands. If the mask becomes damp or soiled, wash the mask in a laundry bag, using a hot water wash. Please also wash before first use.

*Masks are sold individually. At this time, we are making masks in limited quantities and restocking them online as soon as possible.

Please note:

Medical masks, including surgical, medical procedure face masks, and respirators are in short supply and should be kept for healthcare workers and others providing direct care to COVID-19 patients.

While wearing a non-medical mask has not been proven to protect the person wearing it, it can reduce the chance that others come into contact with the wearer’s respiratory droplets – just like coughing into your sleeve instead of into your hands.

It is important to understand that non-medical masks have limitations and need to be used safely. If you choose to use a non-medical face mask, be sure to wash your hands immediately before putting it on and immediately after taking it off. When wearing a mask, be sure to avoid touching your face. It should fit well to ensure that air flows through the mask and not around it. You should not share your mask with others. Non-medical masks should not be placed on children under the age of two; anyone who has trouble breathing; or anyone who is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

Remember that non-medical masks alone will not prevent the spread of COVID-19. You must consistently and strictly adhere to good hygiene and public health measures, including frequent hand washing and physical (social) distancing. We recommend you regularly review and monitor guidance set out by relevant health authorities, including from the Government of Canada.