UPDATE: Since writing this post, Walt Disney World has updated their mask policy several times. Please find detailed requirements, below. In addition to these rules, Disney recently announced that the mask requirement would remain in effect throughout all of 2021. Additionally, if you are not wearing your mask properly, you will be asked to leave.
Updated Disney World Mask Requirements
All face coverings (whether disposable or reusable) must:
- Be made with at least two layers of breathable material
- Fully cover the nose and mouth and secure under the chin
- Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
- Be secured with ties or ear loops and allow the Guest to remain hands-free
At this time, based on guidance from health authorities, neck gaiters, open-chin triangle bandanas, and face coverings containing valves, mesh material or holes of any kind are not acceptable face coverings.
What are the best masks for Disney World and Universal Orlando?
Wearing a mask will be one of the new requirements for visiting the Orlando theme parks, as they reopen to the public in the coming months.
Rather than spiraling into a discussion about whether you’ll wear a mask or not, whether it’s healthy or not, and so on; we thought we’d talk about some of our favorite options for masks, including a tip about how to survive a Florida heat with a mask.
Best Masks for Disney World
Disney has actually produced some themed masks for use in their parks and they are super cool!
The masks come in 3 different sizes (small, medium, and large), so you will need to measure the distance from the bridge of your nose to the bottom of your chin.
You can also get some Disney-style masks from Amazon, including some that are Disney-themed “Buffs” (tubular microfiber faceshields).
Disney does require masks only. No gaiters, triangle shaped bandanas, face coverings that include valves, and mesh or holes of any kind are not acceptable face coverings for Walt Disney World Parks.
Best Masks for Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando reopened to the public on June 5. They require guests and team members to wear face coverings. Universal will provide masks to guests, if they do not have one, at wholesale cost.
Universal Orlando does offer themed masks for their parks. You do still need to bring your own mask to get through the temperature check and security. You can then stop by a merchandise shop in Universal CityWalk to buy a Harry Potter or Universal themed mask.
Amazon also features at least one Universal themed cloth mask.
Best Masks for Sports Fans
I can tell, just walking around the parks in Orlando, that a LOT of sports fans visit the Orlando theme parks.
Fanatics has a face covering for ALL you favorite teams, including our favorite; the Florida Gators.
Fanatics also has faceshields for ALL your favorite sports teams, which brings me to my next subject.
Best Masks for Florida Heat
The biggest complaint I’ve heard, so far, about wearing masks at the parks relates to the heat. Face masks do become quite uncomfortable in the Florida summer heat.
I’ve talked before about faceshields and why I think they’re the most important travel accessory. Click on that link to see my full review and explanation of why these are the most important travel accessory.
With the Orlando theme parks requiring some type of face covering, faceshields become even more important as a travel accessory. I would say you might even need two per person!
We recommend Salt Armour faceshields, not only for their quality, but the variety of themes can make anyone in the family happy.
The microfiber cloth used to make Salt Armour faceshields creates a very comfortable face covering, even in the Florida summer heat. I’ve worn them year-round and been perfectly comfortable.
Keep in mind, Disney World Parks are requiring masks. You cannot wear a faceshield to these parks. You can wear faceshields at Universal Orlando Resort and during the rest of your time in Orlando.
Benefits and Uses of a Faceshield
In addition to satisfying the need for a face covering at the parks, faceshields offer additional benefits that make it the best option for face masks in Florida.
- Sunblock — use the face shield to….well…..shield your face and neck from the sun.
- Handkerchief — I find face shields make for great hankies. They’re soft and easily washed. Right now, this is why I recommend having two per person — you can use one as a face covering and one as a hankie, so you’re not touching your face with your hands
Additionally, Salt Armour faceshields are SUPER inexpensive! You can regularly find them for about $5 a piece.
For the near future, some sort of face covering will be required to visit the parks. Especially over the summer, this could prove extremely uncomfortable. Make life a little easier for you and your family by using a faceshield as your face covering of choice, this summer. It may not be the smile you’re looking for, but they can always put a smile on your kids faces.
