FAQ & Guide to Face Masks at Disney World
This guide to face masks at Walt Disney World offers info & tips, recommendation for best masks, rules & policy changes, and answers to frequently asked questions on wearing masks at Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, plus traveling to and within Florida. (Updated April 18, 2022.)
The question of “are face masks required at Walt Disney World?” has been a controversial topic among fans for months, since before the parks reopened or the rule was even announced. We are not here to relitigate the topic. If you want to argue about the mask policy, join a local debate club. If you want your voice to be heard about Disney’s rule in a meaningful way, contact Walt Disney World.
As of the latest rule change, Walt Disney World joins all other major theme parks in Central Florida as effectively eliminating their indoor face mask rules. Similarly, SeaWorld Orlando, Gatorland, Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida all only “recommend” face masks rather than having actual rules–with only a few exceptions. There are a few places where you’ll still have to wear a face mask at Walt Disney World, as covered below.
April 18, 2022 Update: As of today, you’ll no longer have to wear a mask while flying to Central Florida. Earlier today, a federal judge in Florida vacated the federal mask mandate for airplanes and other forms of public transportation. The ruling found that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had overstepped its authority, failed to adequately explain its reasons for the mandate, and did not allow public comment in violation of federal procedures for issuing new rules.
As a result, the Transportation Security Administration will not enforce its Security Directives and Emergency Amendment requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs at this time. CDC recommends that people continue to wear masks in indoor public transportation settings.
Already, United, Delta, Southwest, and Alaska Airlines have announced that effective immediately, face masks are no longer required on their domestic flights, select international flights (dependent upon the arrival country’s mask requirements), or at U.S. airports. All other major airlines are expected to follow suit very quickly, as the “Airlines for America” industry group had lobbied on their behalf to end the mask mandate before it was previously extended.
It remains to be seen whether Walt Disney World will likewise drop its face mask requirement on buses and the monorail. Disney’s mask rule for those forms of transportation is predicated on the same CDC order, so it would stand to reason that Disney will follow the lead of the aforementioned airlines. However, it wouldn’t surprise us if Disney waits a little longer to see whether the Justice Department will appeal. Our expectation is that there won’t be an appeal, and Walt Disney World will lift the bus and monorail mask rule by the end of the week–but that’s just a guess.
Now let’s take a look at Walt Disney World’s rules concerning masks; here’s the official face covering policy from DisneyWorld.com:
Face coverings are optional for fully vaccinated Guests in both outdoor and indoor locations. We expect Guests who are not fully vaccinated to continue wearing face coverings in all indoor locations, including indoor attractions and theaters. Face coverings are still required by all Guests (ages 2 and up) on Disney buses and monorails.
All face coverings (whether disposable or reusable) should:
- Be made with at least 2 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
Face coverings should not contain valves, mesh material or holes.
Costume masks are not considered appropriate and are prohibited from being worn, in alignment with existing rules.
Face coverings may have an integrated transparent plastic panel to aid in viewing the wearer’s mouth. These face coverings should:
- Be a fabric face covering featuring a solid plastic panel containing no openings that is attached to the fabric on all sides using tight knit stitching
- Meet all face covering requirements listed above
Here’s a chart to help understand where masks are and are not required at Walt Disney World for all guests:
Face masks are now optional for fully vaccinated guests on the Disney Skyliner and on the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser transport from Halcyon and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Face masks are still required for all guests aboard Walt Disney World buses and the monorail.
Next, let’s address some of the more frequently asked questions about face masks at Walt Disney World…
Will Walt Disney World be asking guests their vaccine status?
No.
Why not?
For one thing, there’s past precedent–Walt Disney World didn’t make any distinction the last time mask rules were dropped. Also, it’s prohibited under Florida law and other businesses have lost high-profile legal battles with the state.
For another thing, virtually no business anywhere—even in other states without Florida’s laws—is differentiating between vaccinated and unvaccinated guests beyond the honor system policy, unless required by the state (and as mentioned above, Florida does the opposite).
It’s simply not worth the hassle and headache. It would be asking a lot of Cast Members at a time when there’s already a labor shortage and frontline employees everywhere are at about their wits’ end. This is why the new rule is, essentially, “there is no rule.” (Outside of enclosed transportation, where there remains a face mask rule for all guests. You should expect that to be actively enforced.)
If my kids are under age 5, and thus cannot possibly be vaccinated, will they be required to wear masks?
Again, this is effectively the end of enforcement of rules by Walt Disney World.
Even though it can reasonably be deduced that a small child under 5 years old is unvaccinated, Disney will not be policing whether they wear masks in light of the above. Instead, all unvaccinated guests will be “expected” to wear masks. Likewise, I am expected to eat vegetables when I prepare dinner for myself, but you can guess how that goes when I’m left unsupervised.
Why are there still mask rules on transportation?
As best we can tell, that one is outside Walt Disney World’s control. (Honestly, I’m not sure how they’re lifting the rule on the Skyliner and Galactic Starcruiser transport–but this is a confusing of rules and regulations, so there’s probably some ‘exception’ I’ve missed.)
According to the US Department of Transportation, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an Order requiring the wearing of masks by travelers on conveyances when boarding, disembarking, and for the duration of travel. The Order defines “conveyance” as including “aircraft, train, road vehicle (including rideshares), vessel…or other means of transport, including military transport.”
At present, it appears that this is set to expire on May 3, 2022. It could be extended, as that has already occurred several times in the past. (We didn’t dig too deeply on this one, so take this explanation with a grain of salt.)
This makes me feel uncomfortable to visit Walt Disney World, any risk mitigation advice?
The highest-risk activity at Walt Disney World since reopening has been dining indoors. That has remained true without regard for any past or present rule changes. The easiest way to reduce your actual risk is by eating outside. See our List of the Best Outdoor Dining at Walt Disney World for recommendations. If you’re comfortable with indoor restaurants, mask rules shouldn’t really change the equation much for you.
For those who are still concerned about face masks, the silver lining is that One-Way Masking Works. High quality masks are now widely available, so your safety is no longer dependent upon what others are doing–your health is in your own hands.
If anything, wearing a properly-fitted N95 or KN95 mask offers greater individual protection than you and others around you wearing cloth masks. A growing number of experts have said cloth masks are inadequate to protect from Omicron and other more highly-transmissible variants. At this point, the onus is on the individual to properly protect themselves, if they so desire.
(Here’s one high-quality mask we recommend. We don’t use it anymore, viewing higher quality masks as superfluous for two relatively young and healthy adults who are fully vaccinated and boosted, but they’re a good option if your personal profile or risk tolerances differ from ours.)
What’s the best mask for Walt Disney World?
We have bought many masks. The best option for personal protection that we’ve used is the Powecom KN95 Face Mask. (That one is often sold out, in which case we recommend this Powecom FFP2 Face Mask.)
After doing some research, I opted for the Powecom masks due to their high performance and scratch-off anti-counterfeit label on the package that provides codes to verify authenticity on the company website. Additionally, they’re comfortable, offer a snug fit, and are relatively inexpensive by high quality face mask standards.
Any other face mask recommendations?
My other favorite option is from Suay LA. These are still a great, breathable option, especially for hot weather when the KN95 mask might be more uncomfortable. These are constructed from medical grade non-woven polypropylene surgical wrap and have a nosepiece. They should offer a degree of protection to the wearer. Both of us prefer the small. It’s a snugger and cleaner fit, especially above the nose and under the chin.
Do many guests wear face masks?
In outdoor common areas, we’d estimate that roughly 20% of all guests are wearing masks as of March 2022. We’ve noticed that this number fluctuates depending upon local case numbers. It was higher in August, significantly lower in June-July, and lower now once again.
During our time at Walt Disney World over the course of the last week, we didn’t observe any discernible differences among the parks. Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios are all more or less the same.
Is the face mask rule being actively enforced on transportation?
That’s hit or miss.
You should absolutely bring a face mask with you to Walt Disney World if you’re relying on enclosed Disney transportation, but don’t be surprised if you see other guests not wearing masks. If that’s a concern, we’d recommend renting a car.
Are face masks be required on boats, ferries, and other watercraft?
No.
What are the face mask rule at the water parks?
Same as above, with one notable exception.
Face coverings are *not* permitted while experiencing water slides or in the water.
Does Walt Disney World sell masks?
Yes. Numerous stores around the parks, resorts, and Disney Springs sell a range of character designs and Disney patterns. These are now on clearance, and prices should continue to drop.
For now, there are still vending machines outside of each park that sell generic ones for $2 each.
Are the masks sold by Disney any good?
They’re actually not half bad. Still not our favorite option, but if you want something reasonably comfortable and cute, they’re a decent choice.
Plus, the Baby Yoda mask is the official “basic millennial” accessory, following the storied legacy of the blue Monsters U hat and Spirit Jersey. If you don’t Instagram yourself wearing a Baby Yoda mask, gazing off into space, and standing in front of a colored wall, did you really even visit Walt Disney World?! 😉
Any other mask-related accessories that are worth carrying?
Essentially anything that will help cool you down. Another absolutely necessary accessory is the Frogg Toggs Chilly Pad. We’ve been praising these things for years, as they’re basically some sort of mix of science, technology, and magic. Great for keeping cool–but staying dry.
Another must-have accessory is the Life Straw Go Filter Water Bottle. Drinking fountain water at Walt Disney World is sourced directly from the swamp, and is actually 3% alligator urine. This bottle filters out the pee, and it’s BPA-free! It also uses a 2-stage activated carbon filter to reduce odor and chlorine, leaving zero aftertaste! (If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, Brita Filter Water Bottles are great, too.)
Another accessory we recommend is this USB-powered travel fan. It’s small, lightweight, and can plug into your external battery charger. This is one of the main recommendations in our Unique Disney Packing List, which is where you can find our all-purpose top picks for things to pack for a trip to Walt Disney World.
Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews. To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!
YOUR THOUGHTS
Do you have any questions this FAQ failed to answer? If you’ve visited the parks since Walt Disney World reopened, what was your experience wearing masks? Do you think there’s anything else guests should know before visiting in during this ‘temporary abnormal’ time? Keep the comments civil, as this is not the place for politically-charged arguing, antagonism, personal attacks, or debating the efficacy of NPIs. We will be heavy-handed in deleting comments that cross the line, even if it’s only a single sentence. You are not going to change anyone’s mind via the comments section on this blog, nor are you going to change Disney’s rules or public policy. If you wish to shout your opinions into the internet abyss, that’s why Facebook was invented.
l love your blog and all the updates and how you’re making the best of Disney right now! While we don’t want to visit anytime soon because it’s hot and COVID’s around, we want to go next year or maybe later this year. So I’m living through your posts planning our trip, sort of!
Per your recommendation, I bought the Suay Medical wrap mask for my husband. He has a very long nose to chin area and has a really hard time finding one that doesn’t slip down his nose when he talks. Johnston and Murphy ones seem large enough but not really. Hoping the wire on the Suay one will help with this. He also was huntOmg for a breathable mask. I am slightly annoyed by this because it’s a covering over your nose and mouth, what do you expect? But the Suay mask seemed to meet his initial requirements. Really I ordered it because I’m desperate to get to WDW, and if he has a mask he loves my chances are much better 🙂
Just a piece of info for your readers – I orderEd the Suay mask and never received confirmation or shipping emails. Checked my junk inbox. Emailed them. Nothing. The mask showed up about 10 days after I ordered it.
Hi,
Thanks for all the great tips! Are the Suay masks in the picture of you two the small or the large size?
Judy
Those are the larges.
You guys are my absolute #1 go-to for all things WDW. Finding your snarky humor shoved into very informational articles is like finding money in the couch.
I’ve read many of your articles over the past year, but the best advice you’ve ever given is your last piece here. There is a lot of good info on that Word doc.
Hey Tom – thank you for the awesome tips! I ordered the Suay mask based on your recommendation and it is exceptional – fits great, is breathable and does a decent job keeping the fog off my glasses. My question is this – when you look closely at the material which is kind of like the medical masks, there is a perforated pattern. It doesn’t actually have holes, it just looks like it. Do you think that will be a no-go for Disney? Thanks! Amy
Loved The Office reference. I’ve read some of the comments here… Even for the Internet, they’re pretty shocking.
Curious what your thoughts are for Christmas decorations around the resorts/parks? I’m not holding my breath for MVMCP but we do still enjoy touring the decorations and are looking at a trip in early November. Be a shame to skip Christmas altogether, even if the trees can tend to encourage crowd gathering.
Thanks Tom!
Thank you so much for this tip, Kerry!
Tom, can you please tell us where Sarah got those adorable silver ears with the striped rainbow bow from? I love them! Thank you for this blog. You are my favorite Disney site!
My husband has to wear a mask every day at work and actually says the paper disposable type ones are much more breathable than any cloth ones (we’ve tried quite a few). We’d planned on just using the disposable kind at WDW. Why in specific do you recommend against them as anything more than a backup? Also, thanks for all your tips. I love this blog!
I finally received my UnderArmour masks, and they were such a huge overpriced disappointment that I literally sat down and cried. They fail miserably at every claim they made (fog-free, comfort, breathability, fit, quality, etc) and come nowhere close to being worth the $30/pair I paid. Cancel your order if you still can!
Tom, as always, I love your post. Does Sarah do any of the writing on these? Was it she who said a positive side to face masks is no make up? Maybe for some of us the positive side to face masks IS wearing makeup.
You must have read my mind on posting this today because I was going to go to one of your older posts to update my latest findings as I had promised.
Yesterday afternoon I finally got a definite answer on the face shield thing which is exactly as you posted today, NO face shields except in conjunction WITH face masks.
Personally I prefer face shields BUT I have no problem with face masks. After all these months I have to honestly say that I’m no longer bothered by wearing face coverings period. Now will that change in Florida’s 95 and up heat? Maybe and there’s only one way to find out. Hopefully next week.
I’ve also grown so accustom to seeing people in face masks that people not wearing them or wearing them incorrectly are the ones who jump out at me.
Thanks for your posts, they have become bright spots for so many people.
I figured – may try anyway – thanks!
Wow thank you for letting us know the travel ban has been lifted. We can’t wait to come down. You and Sarah do a wonderful job on navigating Disney.
I love reading all of your helpful info. My family and I ( no small kids ) want to come down to Disney at the end of August for a few days. The problem is I am from New Jersey. Would you be able to tell me if I will be able to get into the parks ? Or will quarantine rules be enforced ? We don’t want to get stuck in a hotel room with nothing to do.
Florida just lifted the tri-state quarantine today–you’re good to go!
I too would like to know how they can see if your mask is one layer or 2.
To our knowledge, that’s not actively being enforced at present (and I’m not sure how it could be). However, I also wouldn’t chance it by purchasing/bringing one-layer masks.
Just popping in to thank you for your comment guidelines. I appreciate you drawing a line in the sand for acceptable behavior on your blog. Also, that whole FAQ about the conspiracy theories was pure gold.
Tom,
Great article as always. I haven’t heard much about the compliance of masks for 2 to 3 year olds. Where we live, masks are required everywhere. Our 6 year old gets it and has his favorite ones to wear. Our 3 year old however, thinks they are fun for about 3 minutes and then moves on. And 3 year olds are about as reasonable as conspiracy theorist. Just curious how WDW has been handling this.
I think Cast Members and other guests are generally pretty forgiving of it because they/we understand it’s not always easy to keep masks on kids.
I have been wondering this as well. Our daughter is turning two while we will be there, and she is almost impossible to keep one on. Wondered if we will be okay with her not wearing one, or if we would be good if we are at least trying.
Thanks for all of the important info, Tom. Are they selling those adorable “smile on a stick” things that a cast member is sporting in one of your photos? We would like to use them in photos during our upcoming trip. If they aren’t for sale, we’ll probably try to make them at home to bring with us. Thanks!
“Are they selling those adorable “smile on a stick” things that a cast member is sporting in one of your photos?”
They are not.
Tom, can you (or anyone else who has them) tell me about how the Suay masks hold up to washing? The website states that they wash well but also that technically they are made of a material that’s meant to be single-use. I’m fine with the price point if it truly is a reusable mask, but wary of it if it isn’t… Thanks!
Before buying more, Sarah and I each had one Suay mask that we wore and washed every time we went out for nearly two months. It’s probably been washed over a dozen times, and aside from some fuzziness on the edges, still looks good.
My biggest issue with masks is how they suck in around your nose when you breathe in. Do the Suay masks do that as well? If not, I’m sold!
I think all masks do that, including the Suay ones.
Kim– I have found a thing called “face brackets” on Amazon. They are soft plastic, and look like little cages. They go underneath your mask, and so far, seem to stay in place with your mask on. They keep the mast an inch or two off your face, so that the mask can not suck in to your nose when you breathe in. I have found them to be more comfortable when I’m wearing the mask for extended periods of time than I would be without them.