What are the best mask defoggers Toothpaste, Shampoo or Spit?
Nowhere in diving is the use of voodoo concoctions more prevalent than in mask defogging.
Everyone seems to have their own special formula for defogging a mask. One person uses toothpaste, one person uses shampoo; one person says all you need is spit and another says to use a commercial defogging solution.
So who’s right?
To a degree, all of them are. Defogging a mask isn’t rocket science. There are many ways to defog a mask, but all ways aren’t created equal. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Here are some examples:
Mask Defoggers - Spit
Let’s start with this age-old tradition.
There were no commercial defogging solutions available for dive masks when the first divers entered the water.
These rugged men never thought to bring soap or toothpaste with them on a dive. When they needed to defog their masks, they reached deep down and found the answer within themselves.
The mucus in your spit makes it difficult for water to collect on the glass so it stays fairly clear. Does this method work?
It does, more or less. It’ll work better in warmer waters than colder waters.
Should you use this method? No.
Aside from being completely repulsive, spitting in your mask can cause eye infections. You’re taking all the bacteria in your mouth and putting it in a confined environment with your eyes. In addition, the defogging capability of your spit will wash away the first time you clear your mask.
Mask defoggers - Shampoo
Shampoo is another method used to defog masks.
Some of you may have used this method in the past to clear the steam from your bathroom mirrors. All you do is put some shampoo in your mask and rub it around. Does it work?
Yes. And a lot better than spit I might add.
But should you use it? Maybe.
There’s nothing wrong with taking a travel-sized shampoo bottle to defog your mask. Just make sure it’s a tear-free shampoo. However, for the price you’ll pay for the shampoo, you might as well buy a commercial defogger.
I’ll use shampoo only in emergencies when I forget my defog.
Mask defoggers - Toothpaste
Toothpaste is good in theory.
It’s more viscous than shampoo so it stays on your mask longer and it’s more effective than shampoo. However, while your mouth may enjoy a minty freshness, your eyes will not.
A better use for toothpaste is to put some just inside your regulator. The mint taste will cause you to salivate throughout your dive and prevent dry mouth.
Mask defoggers - Commercial Mask Defogger
Commercial Mask Defogger is by far the best option.
Generally, the thicker it is the better it is. This stuff is designed to stick to your mask and prevent water droplets from forming. At the same time, it’s also designed to not irritate your eyes.
High quality defog solutions can stand multiple mask clearings without losing their effectiveness.
Personally, I use commercial defoggers to defog my mask and it’s what I recommend to students.
There are many different ways to defog your dive mask. Each one has its merits (with the possible exception of spit) but for all around ease of use and effectiveness, commercial mask defoggers are the best.
