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You might have seen it—divers spitting in their masks before heading underwater.
Gross, right? But there's a good reason for it.
When you’re diving, your mask can fog up, making it tough to see.
The spit helps create a thin film on the lens, which prevents condensation from forming.
This simple trick keeps your vision clear so you can focus on what’s important: the underwater world.
It’s a tried-and-true method, trusted by pros and beginners alike.
So next time you dive, don’t be shy—spit in your mask and dive with confidence.
Why Do Scuba Divers Spit In Their Mask?
Fogged-up masks are more than just annoying—they’re dangerous.
When you can’t see clearly, your awareness of your surroundings drops.
That’s a big problem underwater where visibility is already limited.
By spitting in your mask, you cut down on fog and avoid potential hazards.
Plus, it saves you from constantly stopping to clear your mask during the dive, which can break your focus and ruin the experience.
But Why Saliva?
Why saliva? It’s simple and effective.
Saliva works by breaking the surface tension of the water droplets that cause fogging.
You don’t need fancy defogging sprays or gels; a bit of spit does the job just as well.
It’s natural, always available, and doesn’t add extra bulk to your gear.
Plus, it’s free.
How To Defog Your Diving Or Snorkel Masks With Spit
Here’s how to do it: before you dive, spit a small amount onto the inside of your mask.
Spread it around with your fingers, making sure to cover the entire lens.
Then, rinse the mask quickly with water—just enough to wash away the excess but not so much that you remove the saliva film.
Pop the mask on your face, adjust the strap, and you’re good to go.
Conclusion
For experienced divers, spitting in the mask is second nature.
It’s one of those unspoken rules you pick up along the way.
But if you’re new to diving, it might seem a bit odd at first.
Don’t worry—it’s totally normal, and you’ll get used to it.
In fact, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever dived without it.
So next time you're getting ready for a dive, remember this old trick.
It’s easy, effective, and ensures your underwater adventure goes smoothly.
