The diving mask is bound to fog up from time to time, an annoying and very frustrating event for many divers. However, you can avoid this by preparing the mask before the dive using toothpaste, an anti-fog product or even just your own saliva. By taking the time to clean it before entering the water, you can better enjoy the experience.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: With Saliva
Step 1. Remove the mask
This method is effective when you are not underwater and have no other remedies available; if you notice that it is fogging up, take it off when you are on the surface to fix it.
Step 2. Spit in the mask
Try to collect as much saliva as possible and spit it out on the inner glass. It might sound a bit disgusting, but experienced divers swear this method is absolutely effective. Saliva acts as a surfactant which prevents water from adhering to the surface; rub it on the inner glass.
This solution is more effective with a dry mask; if possible, you should therefore remove the moisture before proceeding. The best thing to do is to use a cloth that is handed to you from the boat you jumped from
Step 3. Rinse the mask
Just like with the other methods, you need to get rid of saliva residue. Simply dip the mask in the water and shake it up a bit; pour the water and put on the mask again.
Method 2 of 3: With an Antifog Spray or Liquid
Step 1. Apply some product to the mask glass
Drop a drop of liquid on the dry and clean surface; a minimal dose is sufficient. You can use a baby shampoo instead of a commercial product.
You can buy the anti-fog liquid at any dive shop; some are in spray version
Step 2. Smear the substance on the glass
Use clean fingers to spread it over the entire surface; if your hands are dirty, you may be transferring grease to the lenses. Check that the product is well spread.
Step 3. Rinse the mask
Gently shake the water inside the mask and throw it away. You can use both fresh and salt clean water; however, remember not to touch the lenses with your fingers after applying the product.
Method 3 of 3: Clean and Treat the Mask with Toothpaste
Step 1. Wash your hands
If they are dirty, you do nothing but worsen the condition of the mask; wash them thoroughly with soap and water by scrubbing and rinsing them for at least 20 seconds.
Step 2. Use toothpaste only on glass lenses
Do not try this remedy with plastic ones, because toothpaste is an abrasive product that can scratch the material; apply it only on glass lenses; if they were made of polycarbonate, opt for another solution.
Step 3. Rub the toothpaste on the surface
Use a classic white paste (not gel) and apply your preferred amount on the inside of the lenses. As you scrub, the glass should start to go smooth, which is just what you want; you should be able to feel the change in surface texture.
If this is your first time cleaning and treating the mask, scrub the outer surface as well. The treatment is nothing more than the first cleaning of the object after purchase, which must be particularly careful to eliminate oils and production residues
Step 4. Rinse it
Use fresh, clean water to get rid of the toothpaste. It may take a little vigorous action to get rid of all the cleanser, but you will eventually succeed; once perfectly rinsed, dry the lenses. Try to breathe on them to see if they mist up; if this happens, repeat the whole procedure.
