New Masks' Preparation
New masks usually have a liquid silicone or oily residue from their manufacturing process that needs to be removed prior to using the mask for the first time. Sea Buff is a mask pre-cleaner that is designed specifically for this purpose. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the bottle for best results. Please note that Sea Buff is not recommended for use on masks with plastic lenses. If Sea Buff is not available then the use of a liquid dishwashing (non abrasive) detergent will also work. Treat both the inside and the outside of the the lenses. If using the liquid dishwashing detergent, squirt some full strength on the inside lenses. Using your fingers, rub the liquid so that every area of the glass is coated. Using a wet dish rag or soft cloth, rub the area vigorously then completely rinse the area with fresh tap water. Slide your fingers over the area that you just cleaned and if this action produces a squeaking noise then you have succeeded. You may have to repeat this process 2 or 3 times. It is important to thoroughly rinse the mask when finished to ensure no irritaion from residual detergent occurs. Repeat the process on the exterior portion of the lenses. Now snorkeling masks with plastic lenses such as the Sphera Masks should follow the instructions for using the liquid dishwashing detergent in a diluted form. Under no circumstances should any detergents containing abrasive agents be used with glass or plastic lenses. Sea Buff is not recommended for masks with plastic lenses. The above procedures may have to be repeated after prolonged storage as well.

Care of Mask During Transit To And From Snorkeling Site
Your snorkeling mask is your window to the underwater world and I have yet to find anyone who likes a broken window. When transporting your snorkeling mask, it should be done in such a way that the mask will be protected. If your mask came with a plastic case, this is probably the best way to protect it from all the bumps and grinds that life has to offer. Snorkeling mask bags are another option. They will keep the lenses from getting scratched and though they may not offer the protection of a mask case, they are better than having the mask loose. Some snorkeling bags have a built in mask pocket either internally, externally or both.

Inspecting and Packing Mask for Vacation Travel
Inspect you snorkeling mask prior to packing it in your vacation luggage. Check to make sure that the snorkeling mask still seals to your face, by watching our How To Fit Your Snorkeling Mask video. Inspect the mask strap for any visible signs of wear which will be more evident near the buckle adjustment areas and replace strap if necessary. If at all possible, it is a good idea to keep your mask and snorkel in your carry on luggage. This is especially true if your mask has diopters/opticals or prescription lenses. If for any reason, your check in luggage gets delayed or lost you will still be able to enjoy the snorkeling and it is a wise idea to carry on a swim suit also. Packing it in a mask bag rather than a plastic mask box may prove to be a less bulky option. If you choose to pack it in check in luggage then make sure that it is packed in such a way that it is well padded. View our snorkeling packing list.

Mask Preparation Prior To Water Entry
If not already done, check the fit of the mask and inspect the strap for visible signs of wear. In the case of masks with tempered glass lenses, use of a commercial dive and snorkeling mask defog such as Sea Drops, which is highly recommended and definitely more sanitary than the old-spit-in-the-mask method for fog prevention. Masks with plastic lenses should use Aqua Sphere Anti Fog which is specially formulated for plastic lenses. For best results read and follow the directions for use as well as take note of any warnings listed on the packaging.

While Snorkeling Mask Care and Tips
Keep your mask in place while snorkeling. Every time you take the mask off during snorkeling it will decrease the effectiveness of defogging solutions. Never place the mask on your forehead as this is often times a great way to lose your mask as well as being recognized a distress signal in Snorkeling and Scuba Diving. If you must, take off the mask, completely or pull the mask down around your neck, unless of course the lifeguard is beautiful or a hunk, depending on your preference. If this is the case, then frantic waving of the arms and use of a safety whistle and/or signal sausage also helps to draw their attention. If you weren't in trouble please note that you will be, when the rescue personnel do come and get you.

When you return from snorkeling, protect your mask from direct sunlight and in the case of masks with silicone skirts, prolonged contact with black rubber products. This prolonged contact can cause premature discoloration of the silicone which is more of a cosmetic issue than anything else.

Post trip and Storage of Mask Recommendations
Soak your mask in warm soapy water to loosen and dissolve any environmental build ups such as salt water deposits dirt. Use a soft bristled toothbrush to get into hard to reach nooks and crannies of the mask both inside and out. Completely rinse the mask in fresh tap water and dry thoroughly using a soft cloth. Store the mask in a cool dry location away from direct sunlight and away from contact with ferrous metal object and black rubber object which have been known to cause premature discoloration of silicone. Over time and exposure to the environment, a silicone mask will begin to take on a pink to yellowish cloudy hue. This does not affect the overall performance of the mask for it's intended purpose. Storing it in an airtight container will help to slow down this process.