How to Clean a Dive Mask and Maintain It

How to Clean a Dive Mask and Maintain It

By: Manny Lagos | Date: 2025-07-25T12:51:40.004Z

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A dive mask as your window to the underwater world. It helps you see clearly, stay safe, and experience all that the ocean has to offer. But even the best mask won’t do its job if it’s dirty, fogged up, or damaged.

From diving with magnificent marine creatures to training as a future PADI professional, a clear, well-fitting mask can make or break the dive. So, learning how to clean a dive mask is very important. The good news? It’s one of the easiest pieces of gear to care for and when you look after it, it absolutely returns the favour beneath the waves. 

Let’s break down how to clean a new SCUBA mask and how to maintain it like a pro.

Why Dive Mask Maintenance Matters

Your dive mask is one of the most important pieces of your diving gear. It’s a non-negotiable. A foggy lens, a persistent leak, or a poor seal: can distract you, cut dives short, make you miss out on stunning underwater moments, or even worse– put you in an emergency situation. That’s why regular maintenance matters. 

By taking a few minutes to check, store, and clean a dive mask properly, you’re not just preserving the gear, you’re protecting your comfort and safety as well.

How to Clean a Dive Mask

When you first get a new mask, it looks amazing and ready to go, but it needs to be properly cleaned before you can take it underwater. Most new masks have a thin layer of some factory residue or silicone on the lenses, which causes them to fog up quickly.

Here’s how to clean a dive mask before its first use:

• Use a non-abrasive toothpaste (shouldn’t be a gel) or a specialized mask scrub.
• Rub it gently on the inside of the lenses using your fingers.
• Let it sit for a few minutes
• Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Do this two or three times before your first dive.

For regular cleaning:

• Rinse your mask in fresh water after each dive to get rid of salt, sand, and any leftover sunscreen or hair product.
• Carefully clean the skirt (the silicone part) to avoid build-up.
• Avoid using anything abrasive, and never clean your mask with harsh chemicals.

How to Prevent Fogging Before Each Dive

Every diver knows there’s nothing more frustrating than reaching a stunning reef, only to watch it blur into a foggy haze. Even a well-cleaned mask can fog up without the right preparation. 

Here are a few easy tips to keep your dive mask fog-free:

• Use a mask defogger before each dive (just a drop or two goes a long way).
• Don’t have a defogger? Baby shampoo works well. Just rub it in, rinse lightly, and you’re good to go.
• If you don’t have anything…spit will do!

The key is to prepare your mask right before you jump into the ocean so it stays clear throughout your dive.

Proper Storage Practices

Now that you know how to clean a new SCUBA mask, here are a few storage practices to keep in mind. 

• Keep it in a pouch or mask box to protect it from scratches. 
• Avoid exposure to direct sunlight when not in use as UV rays can weaken the silicone and fade the colour.
• Don’t leave it in a hot car or rinse tank for long, heat and pressure warp the shape over time.
• Dry it thoroughly before packing it in. This will prevent mould and mildew build-up.

Remember: A little bit of care and maintenance goes a long way in extending the life of your dive mask.

When to Replace Your Dive Mask

Even with the best care, no dive mask lasts forever. So if the silicone skirt is brittle or discoloured, the lens is scratched, or it just won’t seal properly anymore, it’s probably time to get a new one. A good fit and clear vision are essential for safe dives, so don’t wait until a dive is ruined to make the switch.

Additional Tips for Mask Care

• Avoid wearing your mask on your forehead. That makes it more susceptible to damage. (Moreover, it’s a common diver signal for distress).
• Trim long hair or beards that can break the mask seal.
• Check your mask thoroughly before each dive. A quick look for brittle straps or cracks can actually save your diving experience.
• Label your mask, it’ll help you avoid mix-ups when you’re on a busy boat.

Conclusion

Knowing how to clean a dive mask and taking a few minutes to prep your dive mask can make a huge difference in your dive experience. It keeps your vision crystal-clear, ensures a good fit, and helps your gear last much longer.

At Utila Dive Center, we train all our divers, from beginners to professionals to take proper care of their SCUBA diving gear from day one. We believe that when you respect your equipment, it rewards you with safer, more enjoyable dives.

Thinking of upgrading your mask or want to learn SCUBA diving? 

Contact us now!

References

[1] – Salinityswimwear.com - How to keep your scuba mask from fogging up

[2] – Prescriptiondivemasks.com - Expert tips for maintaining your prescription dive mask

[3] – Tripsavvy.com - How to prevent scuba diving mask fogging

[4] – Proshotcase.com - How to clean and maintain your scuba mask