How to Prevent scuba masks from fogging

To prevent your scuba mask from fogging up, I encountered an effective alternative to the traditional spitting method while trying out an underwater camera. The usual routine of spitting on the inner surface of the mask, wiping it around with a finger, and rinsing in freshwater somehow failed on this particular trip. With only the essentials packed, I sought a solution through research, and someone suggested using a small amount of toothpaste on the inside of the lens.

Surprisingly, this toothpaste trick worked wonders. After applying a pea-sized amount and gently rubbing it around with my finger for several minutes, I found that my mask remained clear throughout an hour of snorkeling without the need for constant clearing.

It would appear that the more basic the toothpaste (Non abrasive, Non Bleaching, Non Alcohol), the better.  Having tried the toothpaste, I did discover that to ensure that the technique works you need to :-

• Start with a clean, dry mask:– Ensure that your mask has been previously washed in freshwater.
• Apply toothpaste:– Rub a small amount of non-abrasive, non-bleaching, and non-alcoholic toothpaste on the glass.
• Let it dry:– Allow the toothpaste to dry on the glass surface.
• Gently rub off:– After drying, softly rub off the dried toothpaste using a soft cloth.
• Rinse in freshwater:– Finish by rinsing the mask in freshwater.

Adopting this step-by-step process ensured consistent success in preventing fogging during subsequent trips.

Once I had adopted this pattern it worked every time. The one occasion I didn’t it fogged up and it was back to using spit.

Remember

Don’t use coarse toothpaste or cloth, as these could potentially scratch the glass. Keep it simple and enjoy a clear and unobstructed underwater view!