Looking After Your Essential Equipment

Once you have invested in your own snorkeling essentials, it’s a good idea to follow some simple practices to maintain and look after them.

Always rinse your equipment with fresh water thoroughly after using it, as dried saltwater can cause erosion over long periods. Once you have washed away the salt, sand or any debris that may have stuck to your gear, clean each item individually.

To clean your mask, rub a small amount of soap or toothpaste on the lens with your fingertip in order to remove any grease, and rinse again with freshwater. Using toothpaste to clean your mask can also reduce the likelihood of it fogging up while you are in the water, and eliminate the need for buying defogging solution. Make sure not to use your fingernails as these can cause scratches and reduce visibility the next time you use the mask. Use a soft towel to wipe it dry.

Your snorkel can be cleaned by washing it in a bucket of freshwater and dish detergent and allowing the solution to pass through the tube. Alternatively, you can soak the snorkel in a solution of warm soapy water for half an hour. In either case, follow up by rinsing it thoroughly under running water. Before using your snorkel again – or even before using a new one – you may want to kill germs by giving it a good rinse with some mouthwash.

Fins can also be cleaned using freshwater and dish detergent, with the added help of a scrub to remove anything that may have stuck to them. Be careful not to hurt your hands while doing so and look out for sharp bits of coral!

Store your equipment away from sunlight, heat and fumes as these can cause damage of various sorts, particularly to parts like the seal and mouthpiece that are made of silicone.

Avoid storing or packing your equipment under other heavy objects, and as far as possible, avoid bending anything. This will reduce the risk of damaging or tearing your gear.

Remember that damage to your equipment may be nearly imperceptible, but can impact functionality in the water. Always test your gear properly before you use it again, even if you have been taking good care of it!

Source: https://www.jenreviews.com/snorkeling/