Scuba Dive Mask:

Care, Maintenance and Defogging Tips

A good scuba dive mask goes a long way toward making sure you have a comfortable dive

But once you have it, how do you properly care for it? And how do you stop that mask from fogging up?

There's nothing more annoying than not being able to see once you're underwater and having to continually rinse your mask so you can see.

Here are some tips on scuba dive mask care, maintenance and defogging so you can have an enjoyable dive.

(For more information on masks, take a look at our dive mask buyers guide including our picks for best dive masks in different price categories.)

Scuba Dive Mask Care

When you purchase a new mask, there may be an oily film on it. This is from the manufacturer and helps to protect the mask during shipping.

What works best to remove this? Good 'ol toothpaste!

Put a small drop on the lens and rub it over the areas that have this residue on them. This would also include the strap. Thoroughly rinse the mask in fresh water and reinspect to make sure it is clean. Repeat if necessary.



Scuba diver checking out the coral

Just make sure it is not a gel toothpaste. I have always used plain Crest for this (and to clean my dive slate) with no ill effects. Removing this film will stop the mask from fogging.

Maintenance of your scuba dive mask is straightforward. No rocket science here. Just follow these simple steps:

  • Always rinse your mask in freshwater after diving. You need to clean out any sand or grit that may have gotten into the mask and get rid of any salty residue.
  • Thoroughly dry mask before storing. You don't want anything to start growing on your mask. Not to mention possible odors.
  • Never dry your mask in direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can start to degrade the silicone so keep the mask out of the sun.
  • Place you mask face-up. Don't put your mask face down when you are not wearing it. The lens could get scratched - which could drive you nuts on every dive!
  • Periodically clean your scuba dive mask. As described above, you should clean your mask with a little bit of toothpaste every now and then. It will help remove things from the lens and will also help keep it from fogging (see below). Rinse well after using the toothpaste and you are good to go.

Mask Defogger Techniques

Essentially there are 3 different ways to keep your scuba dive mask from fogging while you are diving. I have used all 3 while diving and all 3 are effective. We usually have a mask defogger solution when we dive and that is our first choice.

  • Commercially Prepared Solution - You can buy a commercial mask defogger solution at any dive shop for a few bucks. They last a long time and do work (at least the ones we have used).

    Just put a couple drops on your lenses and rub it around. Rinse it out thoroughly, you don't want to get solution in your eyes. Be prepared to share with lots of other divers on the boat. It never fails. This defogger is a good bet to stop your mask from fogging.
  • Saliva - Yup, good ol' spit. It really does work. I usually dry and put in on my mask when it is dry. Rinse out after rubbing it around your mask. Some people get queasy, bacteria, etc. But we've done it and no harm has come to us! Good in a pinch.
  • Toothpaste - If the above 2 don't work, it may need a more thorough cleaning with toothpaste as described above (non-gel). This should solve any problem with fogging that you have.

There you have it, the 3 mask defogger techniques to try during your next dive trip. One of them should work for you.

For more information, check out our other pages on masks and snorkels:

Scuba Diving Mask Introduction //Scuba Diving Masks: Basic Info //Prescription Scuba Mask //Features of a Scuba Snorkel//Choosing the Best Snorkel for You//Folding Snorkels//Dry Snorkels

You can also check out our choices for Best Diving Masks if you are in the market for a new mask.

Looking for other scuba equipment and accessories? Check out our picks for Best Dive Gear.

 Want to stay down longer and improve your buoyancy control and other diving skills? Our free report "Increase Your Bottom Time" along with our practical, weekly actionable tips will have you looking like a seasoned diver in no time. So come join us and see improvement on your very next dive!
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