How to Properly Maintain Your Diving Mask?
Diving masks are a scuba diver's window to the underwater world. Since it's one of the most important accessories a diver uses on every dive, a diving mask should always be in good shape. A well-treated scuba mask can last for many years before needing to be replaced. And, unlike other types of scuba diving equipment (which are constantly improving), diving masks don't change much with technology.
Caring for a mask is fairly simple for anyone who takes the time to care for it. Listed below are some actionable tips to help keep your diving mask clean, scratch-free, and in good working order:
Store Diving Masks in a Cool, Dry Place
Proper storage of your scuba diving mask can extend its usability. Always store it in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight. Sunlight can degrade the plastic on the mask, making it brittle and rendering it useless and fragile.
It's best to keep your diving mask in a mesh bag or other gear bag that facilitates airflow. Although it may appear that the mask is dry, once stored, just a small amount of water is enough for mold to grow. Proper ventilation can go a long way toward preventing the mask from needing to be bleached clean later. Don't forget to place the mask where it won't be crushed, lest the soft area around the tempered glass deform and cause a leak.
Storing the masks in an airtight container after they are completely dry will protect them from bugs and insects. Masks that have not been cleaned thoroughly can contain dirt, residue, and other deposits that attract insects, causing them to chew through the mask and ruin it. Always store your diving mask face up or use a lens cap to avoid unwanted scratches on the lens.
For clear edge masks, store them in a separate bag away from your other dive gear. Placing it with other dive accessories of a different color will fade the sheer skirt. Also, remember to remove the neoprene straps from the mask, as keeping them in storage can cause the mask to yellow and accelerate deterioration.
Regularly and Thoroughly Clean Your Diving Mask
Diving masks are easy to clean with dish soap and water. Cleaning them this way is enough to remove any deposits from them while still leaving them looking and smelling fresh and clean.
Alternatively, you can soak your mask in fresh warm water (usually below 120℉) after a dive to dissolve any salt crystals left in the crevices. Remember to rinse thoroughly and towel dry before storing again.
Regular deep cleaning of your mask is also recommended to remove any residual residue or particle buildup that you can't deal with during your regular post-dive cleansing. Rub a little dish soap on the lenses and skirt of the mask. Remember to get into the nose area and small crevices for a deeper clean. Rinse the mask repeatedly until no soap remains, and allow it to dry completely before returning it to storage.
Choosing a phosphate-free soap has the added benefit of keeping small amounts of phosphate out of your waterways. This chemical is great for cleaning but can cause algae overgrowth and fish kill in waterways. Even a little residue from the soap will stay in the water the next time you use the mask.
You can also use various mask cleaners to remove dirt and residue.
Keep Your Lens Clear With Anti-Fog Solutions
Mask fogging is one of the most common problems divers encounter underwater. Although many use defoggers, there are still many experienced divers who rely solely on saliva to keep their masks fog-free while diving. Regardless of which method is preferred, diving masks are easier to keep clean if you use a defogger before diving.
Another method divers can use to defog their diving masks is to apply baby shampoo to the lenses before diving. Baby shampoo can be used like a typical commercial demister solution. A few drops of 50/50 diluted baby care solution should do the trick to keep your lenses from fogging up. Additionally, baby shampoo is preferred over regular shampoo because it is often hypoallergenic, biodegradable, and less irritating to the eyes. Remember to give the mask a quick rinse after using the baby shampoo and it's ready to go!
If you plan to hit the beach or other open area immediately after diving or snorkeling, be sure to store your mask and other dive equipment first, rather than leaving them unattended. That way, your mask, and other dive gear don't suffer easily preventable damage. If you are planning to buy a new diving mask, welcome to contact us.
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