A good quality scuba mask is one of the most important pieces of gear for any diver or snorkeller. It is the window to the underwater world and needs to be clear and secure so that you can see all the amazing things around you. If your scuba mask is not maintained correctly, it can become scratched, foggy, and difficult to see through. And if you aren’t cleaning your mask effectively, the quality of your mask can deteriorate quickly. But, when properly cared for, a scuba mask can last well over ten years!
In this article, we have a step-by-step guide on how to clean and maintain your scuba mask so you can keep it in optimal condition and enjoy clear views of the underwater world.
Why is it important to clean and maintain your scuba mask?
There are many reasons why it’s essential to clean and maintain your scuba mask properly. These include:
Keep your mask clear and functional
The primary function of a scuba mask is to allow the user to see clearly and effectively underwater. But when your mask isn’t clean, it makes it much harder to see through, which can significantly impact the quality of your underwater experience. You’ll end up just seeing blurry outlines, and that’s not enjoyable for anyone! Dirty scuba masks are prone to build up, especially on the lenses. The more you skip cleaning your mask between uses, the more salt and bacteria that will build up on the lenses, and the harder it will be to remove it. Having clear vision is essential to keeping you safe in the water, enabling you to effectively navigate around obstacles like reefs, shipwrecks, and marine life. A clean scuba mask is a clear scuba mask.
Prevent the spread of bacteria
A dirty mask is a breeding ground for bad bacteria and mold. If you don’t clean your mask properly, bacteria will quickly form and start eating into the mask. If you only use your scuba mask a few times a year, you’re in for a nasty surprise when you take it out of its case. But more importantly, if you don’t maintain your scuba mask, you’ll end up breathing that bacteria and mold in next time you wear the mask.
Increase the lifespan of your scuba mask
Cleaning and maintaining your scuba mask will help keep it in great shape for longer. The biggest enemies of a scuba mask are saltwater, sun, and sand. All of these factors will cause your mask to deteriorate faster. And since your scuba mask is subject to all these elements every time you use it, it must be properly cleaned to remove sand and saltwater and stored in a dry, dark place where the sun can’t reach them. Masks with transparent silicone skirts will show more noticeable signs of deterioration as they can become discolored with humidity and water (which cause the growth of mold. You’ll likely notice your scuba mask turning yellowish if you aren’t properly cleaning and maintaining it.
What items do you need to clean your scuba mask?
To clean your scuba mask, you will need the following supplies:
Freshwater
Mild soap (like dish detergent or baby shampoo)
Soft cloth
Soft-bristled toothbrush
People may recommend cleaning your scuba mask using toothpaste, but many kinds of toothpaste are abrasive and can damage your mask. So, keep that in mind if you choose to go that route, although some mild soap is really all that’s needed to clean your mask effectively.
A step-by-step guide to cleaning your scuba mask
At a minimum, it’s important to rinse your scuba mask with fresh water after every single use and let it thoroughly air-dry. But after three or so uses and before storing your mask, it’s important to follow these steps to clean your mask to keep it in the best condition. This step-by-step process only takes a few minutes and will make a huge difference in the effectiveness and lifespan of your scuba mask.
Fill a sink with lukewarm water (don’t use water that is too hot).
Add a drop of mild soap and stir to create suds.
Submerge your scuba mask in the soapy water and use your hands to rub the suds around the lens, skirt, and straps to dislodge any sand and salt particles.
Use a soft cloth to wipe the entirety of the mask to ensure that any dirt or debris that might be clinging to the mask is removed.
If there is stubborn dirt, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove it (but only do this if necessary).
Rinse your scuba mask thoroughly with fresh water
Spray the lenses with an anti-fog spray to renew the anti-fog layer. Rub it in with a cloth, and then give the mask a final rinse.
Allow your scuba mask to air dry, and use a towel to make sure it’s completely dry before you store it away. Don’t use paper towels or tissue paper since they can leave particles behind. This step is crucial, as any water left in the mask can encourage mold and bacteria growth.
More tips to maintain your scuba mask
In addition to cleaning your scuba mask, there are a few other maintenance steps you can take to keep your scuba mask in top condition.
Inspect your scuba mask regularly for any cracks, tears, or other damage.
Store your scuba mask in a cool, dry place when you are not using it. Avoid exposing your scuba mask to direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this can cause components of the mask to deteriorate faster. Try to store your scuba mask in a protective, solid case to help avoid any scratches or cracks in your lens.
If your scuba mask starts to fog up, you can use a defog solution to help prevent the fog from forming. Ideally, look for a scuba mask that already comes with an anti-fog film installed. But a good anti-fog spray is always a bonus!
Adjust the straps if you are having trouble getting your scuba mask to fit snugly. Most scuba masks have adjustable straps that can be tightened or loosened as needed. Adjusting your straps properly will help prevent them from snapping or stretching if they are too tight. And reduce the chances of them coming loose underwater and letting water in.
Avoid using any abrasive materials on your scuba mask to prevent scratching.
The importance of good quality scuba mask
No matter how well you take care of your scuba mask, if you buy a poor-quality mask, it likely won’t last very long. If the lenses are made from plastic, and the skirt and strap are made from low-quality rubber or soft plastic, you’ll be lucky to even get a few years out of it.
A quality scuba mask should be made from silicone, which is both comfortable and durable. Silicone doesn’t age as fast as soft plastic or rubber and doesn’t break as easily, so it will last much longer. Even though it may cost more initially, you’ll get your money’s worth over the 10+ years it will last.
The lens of a good-quality dive mask should be made of tempered glass, not plastic. Tempered glass is about four times the strength of regular glass and goes through additional processing, strengthening the outer surface. Plastic discolors and scratches very easily, plus it’s harder to see through since it’s not as clear. Even cleaning the mask or packing it away can end up scratching a plastic lens, and scratches reduce visibility in the mask.
How to clean and maintain your scuba mask
We hope this guide has been helpful in walking you through the steps of how to clean and maintain your scuba mask. Investing in a high-quality scuba mask and properly cleaning and maintaining it will help it last for many years. It will also ensure optimal visibility when snorkeling and diving so you can clearly see the underwater world. So, get out there and start exploring!
