From Package to Performance: Prepping Your New Dive Mask for Success

Remember transitioning from the basic masks we started with when we first received our scuba diving licenses and moving up to even more stylish and impressive masks…?

Initially, when we got our licenses, we didn’t possess much, but as we saw others with attractive masks, the desire grew in us…

Usually, a year after obtaining a license, the wish for new masks arose…Sometimes sooner!

Various reasons contribute to this, but it seems autumn is the time of year when many people invest in new scuba diving gear. It is often at the same time when people are on a shopping spree looking for new things and the end of the year celebrations.

Masks that fall within a reasonable price range tend to be a popular choice.

Regardless, no matter what the new equipment may be, it’s something that brings us happiness. We look forward to taking the plunge into the ocean with our brand-new piece of equipment!

However, there are instances where we might face challenges during our initial use of a new mask. The most common one being Zero Visibility.

I believe some of you have gone through such a disappointing experience. But were you aware that brand-new masks aren’t ready for immediate use?

To help you avoid any unpleasant situations, let’s now explore the necessary steps to take before using a new mask for scuba diving or snorkeling! 

Especially if you are considering buying a new one soon!

What Causes New Masks to Fog Up??

The fog in new masks may result from two primary reasons.

First, there’s condensation.

You can manage it with pre-dive anti-fog treatments.

However, for new masks, there’s another factor that leads to fogging: the presence of an oily film.

During the manufacturing process, a silicone-based oily film forms on the inner side of the mask’s lens. This film repels moisture along with anti-fog substances. This leads to the mask fogging up.

In short, you must always remove this oil film when you buy a new mask.

Removing the Oily Film from the Brand-New Mask in a Hurry

Yes indeed, it’s toothpaste!

Apply toothpaste to the inside of the lens and gently rub for a while.

Next, to test, drop some water on the lens after wiping off the toothpaste. If the water spreads evenly across the lens like a thin layer, you’re good to go.

If the water forms droplets and doesn’t spread, you need to keep rubbing.

This is the easiest method to fix it if you realize you forgot to remove the oily film right before diving,

By the way, as you might have guessed, if you have used this method then your first experience with a new mask will be filled with the aroma of toothpaste!

Additionally, mild detergent or cream cleanser can also be effective, but because mild detergent lacks abrasive components, its effectiveness might be limited.

Also, if available, using a melamine sponge instead of your hands while rubbing can enhance the effectiveness even further!

Preparing for a New Mask When You Have Plenty of Time.

If you have ample time to get ready, besides the toothpaste method, there are further steps you can take to cut the likelihood of fogging.

The oily film isn’t limited to the mask’s lens. It’s also found on the skirt (the part that rests against your face).

When putting on the mask, the oily film from the skirt can transfer to your hands, and if you inadvertently touch the lens with those hands… This is why it’s advisable to eliminate the oily film from the skirt as well!

Like the lens, rubbing the skirt is effective.

The skirt has a larger surface area and is more difficult to polish. Thus, you can opt to soak it in a mixture of mild detergent and water for approximately a day or overnight.

This alone can bring about a significant improvement!

During soaking, rather than monopolizing your sink, you may use the original mask case! 

Additionally, when diluting the detergent, it’s crucial to pour the water first and then add the detergent.

Pouring detergent first leads to excessive foaming when you pour water.

Should you Store your Masks in its Case?

It’s common to see people placing their recently bought masks back into their original cases. While the intention is understandable, it’s not a good practice.

As I mentioned earlier, there’s an oily film even on your skirt. This film possesses an intriguing characteristic. It slowly evaporates from the skirt over a period. 

If you toss your mask into a mesh bag, any evaporated oily film will be released into the air. But, if you store it in its case, it ends up sticking to the mask’s lenses.

All the effort you invested in removing that oily film would go to waste, and you’d have to start the process again.

Of course, if you manage to clean the oily film from your skirt, you should be fine. But picture a scenario where you hastily clean the lenses after reaching the beach. In situations like that, you better exercise caution!

So, when it comes to your brand-new diving gear, make sure it is ready for your new underwater adventures!