How to Antifog a Diving Mask

Breathing out through your nose will fog a diving mask.

Manufacturers coat diving masks with an oily, protective film prior to shipping. This film contributes to fogging during diving. Use the toothpaste method to remove the film before using any new diving mask. Clean your mask periodically with toothpaste; a cleaning is not required each time you dive. Defogging solution will also help prevent fogging during your dives. Use saliva if you do not have defogging solution.

Things You'll Need

• Toothpaste
• Defogging solution

Instructions

Toothpaste Method

1. Apply a pat of toothpaste -- about the size of a pea -- to your index finger. Toothpaste will remove the oily film from new diving masks.

2. Rub the toothpaste over the entire inside of the lens. Use a circular motion, and do not scratch the lens with your fingernail.

3. Rinse the mask thoroughly, and examine it. Re-apply toothpaste and rinse again until you can no longer see the oily film. Treat the strap of the mask in the same manner to improve the manner in which the mask adheres to your face.

Defogging Solution

1. Add two drops of defogging solution to the inside lenses. Use a solution formulated especially for diving masks.

2. Rub the solution around the entire surface of the interior lens.

3. Dunk the diving mask quickly into water, and bring it back up. Swirl the water around for one or two seconds, and then empty the mask. Repeat before each dive.

References

• The Scuba Guide: Scuba Mask Maintenance

Resources

• PADI: Your Mask