Scuba Mask Tips

A scuba mask is a necessary piece of your diving equipment, so taking care of it is important. These tips for taking care of a scuba mask will help it provide you years of reliable service.

  1. Defogging tips

    • Keep the lens clear by defogging before you dive. Spit rubbed into the glass is a traditional method, but non-gel toothpaste works better and is more aesthetically pleasing. Rub a small amount of paste over the glass inside the mask and wipe with a clean cloth. Defogging solutions in spray bottles are available at most dive shops, but there is no compelling evidence that spray-on products work any better than toothpaste.

    Clean the mask after diving

    • Rinse your scuba mask under cold, fresh water after every dive, especially after a saltwater dive. It is important to remove the corrosive salt from the mask to preserve and protect the silicon rubber and to prevent metal parts from rusting. Dry the mask completely with a clean towel to prevent mold or other substances from getting into the crevices and creating odd odors.

    Stow the gear properly

    • Place your scuba mask face up to protect the outside glass lens from becoming scratched. Store the mask in a mesh gear bag to keep the mask ventilated and cool. Humidity and the ocean air can wreak havoc on silicon rubber, so allowing air to circulate around the mask will better protect it than sealing it inside a bag where moisture can seep in and cause condensation to form.