How To Prevent Snorkel Mask From Fogging – Pro Tips For Clear Vision

Have you ever dealt with snorkel mask fogging? We must admit that even as long-time snorkelers, we face this issue regularly, which is not only annoying and makes your snorkeling experience less enjoyable, but if your vision is not clear, it can also lead to dangerous situations like getting disorientated or bumping into something. This is why it is crucial to understand what causes it and how you can fix it.

Over the years, we have learned that fogging occurs in all types of snorkel masks. There are several reasons why condensation happens; it can be because your mask is new, dirty, or does not fit well, or there is a significant temperature difference between the surface temperature of the lens and the air temperature. Luckily, we have several tricks and tips to prevent and solve this issue, which we share with you here.

Why Does My Snorkeling Mask Keep Fogging Up?

Solving an issue should always start with identifying the root. Therefore, we believe that the first step is understanding mask fogging. So, here are the main reasons why and in what circumstances this problem occurs:

• Your mask is new: masks come off the production line with a thin silicone layer on the lenses. Not removing this layer will cause condensation build-up despite all anti-fog measures.
• The lenses are dirty: moisture attaches to dirt easily, so if the inner side of the lenses is not clean, you can experience fogging.
• Temperature differences: one of the most common reasons for mask fogging is the temperature difference between the mask’s lens and the environment. This occurs when the sun warms up your mask and when you enter the water, it cools down too quickly, but we also experienced extreme fogging when snorkeling in hot water (29-30 °C+/86 °F+) in the tropics.
• You inhale air into the mask: breathing inside the mask through your nose adds moisture to it, resulting in condensation build-up and fogging, so you should keep inhaling air into the mask to the minimum.

How To Treat A New Snorkel Mask To Keep It From Fogging

New dive and snorkeling masks fog up badly because there is a thin silicone film or residue layer on the inner side of the lenses. This layer prevents the lenses from getting scratched during the manufacturing process, but it should be removed before the first use; otherwise, you will be struggling with fogging.

Most manufacturers inform their customers about this, but not everyone knows how to do it. To help you, we explain the two most common methods of removing the residue layer from a new snorkel mask:

Toothpaste Method

The simplest method of clearing off the protective silicone layer of the lens is using toothpaste. Just put a small amount on the lenses, rub it around with a clean toothbrush (if possible, don’t use your hands as the oil from your skin gets onto the lens), leave it to dry, then scrub it off and rinse it with warm water. Repeat the process a few times.

Don’t apply toothpaste with microparticles. These can scratch the lenses and are harmful to the environment. The classic, non-gel toothpaste works best.

Lighter Method

Burning the lenses with a lighter, matches, or candle is another excellent way to remove the unwanted coating on the inner side of the lens. This is called the burner or flame method.

Move the flame around until the lens gets black. Leave it to cool, then clean it with a soft cloth. Repeat the process 2-3 times for the best result until the layer is burnt away.

This method is very effective; however, it requires some attention and practice because you can burn the silicone skirt and damage the mask. Therefore, if you don’t know how to do it properly, ask someone to help.

Also, keep in mind that this flame trick can be used on tempered glass lenses only as plastic lenses melt. If your mask has tempered glass lenses, it is written on it, so if you don’t see any sign, it is probably made of plastic.

Tips To Prevent Your Snorkel Mask From Fogging Up

Fogging happens not only to new snorkeling masks but also to old ones due to temperature differences. Here is some advice that works best for us to keep our maks fogless, including pre-snorkeling tricks and in-water practices.

Choose A Good-Fitting Mask

The best tip we can give you to keep your snorkel mask from fogging up is to choose a high-quality model that fits your face. If your mask doesn’t seal well, it will flood in frequently, and you will often breathe out of your nose to clear it, promoting condensation and fogging. Choosing the right snorkel mask can make all the difference.

Clean Your Mask Regularly

Condensation is less likely to build on a clean lens, so you should not skip cleaning your mask. Rinsing with fresh water after each use is essential, but you should also deep clean it occasionally to remove dirt and oil from the lenses that would promote moisture to attach to it.

Keep The Lenses From Getting Too Warm

Condensation forming due to temperature differences is the main reason for fogging, so keep your mask from becoming too hot. Do not leave in the sun while getting ready for your snorkeling session, and once you put it on, turn your back to the sun.

Avoid Taking Your Mask Off While Snorkeling

Ideally, you should put the mask onto dry face and not remove it until the end of your snorkeling session. Every time you pull it away from your face, air and/or water enters the mask, and moisture condenses on the lens, increasing the risk of fogging, so try to leave your mask on your face during the entire time you are in the water.

Keep Breathing Through Your Nose To The Minimum

Some nasal exhalation is necessary to repressurize the mask, but don’t overdo it because the warm air you exhale will cause condensation and lead to fogging.

Try An Anti-Fog Snorkel Mask

Some masks are equipped with anti-fog technology to provide clear vision no matter the circumstances. This is usually a film on the inner side of the lenses that offer long-lasting protection against condensation build-up, so you will be less likely to suffer from fogging. We haven’t tried such masks yet but heard good reviews about the Seavenger Hanalei and Tidal anti-fog masks.

Use Anti-Fog Solutions

You can quickly achieve fogless views underwater by applying special anti-fog solutions on the lenses. This can be something simple like baby shampoo, liquid soap, or a commercial anti-fogging agent. Below you find our recommendations.

Mask Anti-Fog Solutions From Simple To Professional Ones

Even if you follow best practices, you might need some help in the form of defog solutions to keep your mask from fogging. Here are the most common options to reduce fogging issues:

Your Own Saliva

Salvia is the best defogging agent you will never leave at home! Right before entering the water, when your mask is still dry, spit on the inner side of the lens and rub it around. Rinse it quickly so a thin layer stays on the lens. Saliva contains mucin that acts as a surfactant and prevents condensation from building up on the lens.

Baby Shampoo Or Liquid Soap

The cheapest defog solution you can prepare for yourself is diluted baby shampoo or liquid soap. We prefer baby shampoo because it doesn’t irritate the eyes. Choose a biodegradable one so it won’t harm marine life.

To prepare your homemade mask defogger, mix a little amount of baby shampoo with water in a spray bottle and spray it on the lenses. Move the mask around so the solution covers the entire surface of the lenses, then rinse it quickly.

Defogging Spray

Some people prefer commercial defogging products over homemade solutions. Usually, scuba gear manufacturers sell such liquids (we like the Stream2Sea Anti-fog Spray as it is marine life safe). These solutions come in small bottles, but a little goes a long way: you just need to put a few drops of defogging agent on the lens and move it around to create a thin layer. Then, submerge the mask in the water for a few seconds.

Conclusion

Let’s be real, snorkeling is all about those amazing underwater views, and a foggy mask can really ruin the vibe. We’ve all been there, squinting through the haze, trying to see the fish and coral. But here’s the good news – keeping your mask clear isn’t rocket science.

First off, give your new mask a little love with some toothpaste or a quick flame treatment (sounds weird, but it works!). It’s like prepping it for all the adventures to come. And don’t forget, a clean mask is a clear mask. Just a quick rinse after each dive does wonders.

Choosing the right mask is like picking the perfect pair of shoes – it’s got to fit just right. If it’s snug and comfy, you’re less likely to get that annoying fog. And once you’re in the water, try to keep it on. Taking it off invites fog to settle in.

If you’re still getting a bit of fog, no stress. A little spit, yes, your own, can work wonders, or you can go for a baby shampoo mix or a fancy anti-fog spray. Whatever floats your boat!

So there you have it, clear views are just a few simple steps away. With these tips, you’re all set for some epic underwater sightseeing. Happy snorkeling!

Inspired? Pin it!