Waterproof Your Mask, Naturally
Beeswax is an exceptional material for naturally waterproofing your cotton fabric mask. Beeswax works by being absorbed directly into the cotton fibers, making the material waterproof without clogging the fabric. This provides the best of both performance and protection, ideal for winter sorts, exercising outdoors, or taking a brisk walk in the snow or the damp winters of the Pacific Northwest.
Product Features
100% natural filtered beeswax harvested by Washington State honeybees
Apply before activities or winter sports for all-day performance
Beeswax makes cotton fibers water-resistant without clogging the fabric's natural pores
Non-toxic, with no additives or artificial chemicals
The subtle scent of flowers and honey makes every breath a little bit heavenly
This 1-ounce block will last for dozens and dozens of applications. Beeswax does not spoil
Locally sourced by Puraka from honey farms in Snohomish, Washington
Application Steps (See Pictures)
Step 1 - Select a Solid or Light-colored Mask
Start with a solid or light-colored fabric mask. We recommend one of our lightweight and breathable Active Masks.
Step 2 - Apply the Wax
Rub the cotton surface of the mask vigorously until coated. Start with a small area, then move on once you can see a whitish sheen coating the fabric. Apply extra to the seams and around the upper trim. Warm the beeswax block for 5-10 seconds first with a hair dryer for easier coating.
Step 3 - Treat with Heat
Using a hair dryer set to low, warm the mask. Move the dryer back and forth across the mask an inch or two away from the fabric. Continue until all of the whitish sheen from Step 2 has disappeared.
Step 4 - Inspect the Fabric
After treatment, the fabric should have a darker, warmer tone. The color of the mask should be uniform from top to bottom. To test that the cotton fibers are thoroughly prepared, run the mask ever-so-briefly under the faucet, shake it vigorously, then put it on and draw a few breaths. You should be able to breathe easily even if the mask appears wet. (Test it out by trying the same thing with a non-treated mask. You'll be amazed at the difference!)
Step 5 - Wash and Reapply
Wash your mask just like you would normally. If machine-washing, make sure to use a laundry bag so the wax doesn't rub against other garments. Re-apply again before use.
Protective inner layer of breathable, moisture-resistant polypropylene
Lightweight but tightly-woven 100% cotton shell
Extends under the chin for better fit and performance
Adjustable ear straps for near-universal sizing
Nose clip for improved seal and less fogging of your glasses
Rear pocket accommodates optional carbon pm2.5 filter
Seamless, non-valved design safe for others even without a filter
We Know Masks | Puraka was founded in 2018 in Seattle, Washington, originally offering fabric masks to protect against wildfire smoke pollution. In 2020, we joined the ASTM subcommittee that developed the national standard for protective face coverings, F3502, in collaboration with the CDC's NIOSH division. Our masks are tested in North American laboratories to ensure they exceed the minimum filtration levels. In short, we have the experience to know how to make a great mask, and what to look for in a filter.
More Filtration, Less Discomfort | Puraka Masks are designed to offer everyday protection suitable for active or casual use. A Puraka Mask with our laboratory-tested electrostatic filters is engineered to block airborne particulates in the critical fine-aerosol range significantly better than most cloth masks, but with less inhalation resistance and corresponding heart strain than a typical medical respirator.
Our In-Stock Guarantee | A mask is not something you should have to wait for. Every product in our store is ready to ship from one of our U.S. fulfillment centers,usually within one business day or less from when you place your order. We offer free shipping on any order of two or more masks, or you can upgrade to USPS Priority or First Class for just $5!
Meltblown Fabric
Composition by Weight: 40%
Characteristics: High quality meltblown fabric is the most important part of a particulate filter. Non-woven fibers act as a physical barrier against airborne micro-particulates while also providing an electrostatic barrier effective against fine aerosols in the sub-micron range.
Spunbond Fabric
Composition by Weight: 40%
Characteristics:Spunbond is a non-woven fabric that filters out larger particles, while providing structure to the inner meltblown layers.
Activated Carbon Fabric
Composition by Weight: 20%
Characteristics: Activated carbon fabric traps particles via a process called adsorption, and also serves as an antibacterial and deodorizer.