Can you imagine going out on a snorkeling trip and not being able to see underwater? That would be a terrible experience.
You might not think about it often, but your snorkel is an important tool for your beach day. Not only does it help you breathe while you’re underwater, but it also helps keep the water out of your mouth. Here are some tips on how to clean a snorkel in the best condition possible so that you can have fun on your next trip!
Why You Should Clean Your Snorkel
If you haven’t gotten around to cleaning your snorkel yet, there are a few reasons why you should. Before we go any further, though, you should know that it is pretty easy to clean your snorkel. You can get your favorite boat with a big net and just pull it out of the water and wash it off in the ocean. Don’t worry, and it’s safe!
You should also know that it is important to thoroughly clean your snorkel because it plays a vital role in helping to ensure that you don’t encounter any annoying items in the water. Here’s a rundown of some of the items you want to avoid:
- Large pieces of seaweed
- Leathery foods
- Fish eggs
- Flesh of fish
As you can see, there are many items in the water that are easy to get sick if you encounter them.
How to Clean A Snorkel?
While you might not think about cleaning your snorkel often, it’s important to keep it clean. If you don’t clean it regularly, it can easily get gunky and dirty. To keep it in the best shape possible, follow these tips.
Start by rinsing the snorkel head in freshwater. Then, dry it with a towel and apply a little mineral oil to keep it from clogging up. Rinse the snorkel again with fresh water.
Check the snorkel’s fins too. If you can see any rust or other spots, make sure you clean it thoroughly. To do this, dip the snorkel head into an old can of paint thinner. Rinse it out with fresh water.
When you’re ready to use the snorkel again, soak it in saltwater for a few minutes before submerging your mouth.
Rinse it with fresh water
You don’t have to change your snorkel every time you use it, but you can’t waste water either. Make sure you rinse it with fresh water when you’re done with it. And keep in mind that when you’re out in the ocean, the saltwater can get into the snorkel and get it dirty quickly.
Clean it with a toothbrush
It might seem like a little thing, but a good cleaning is worth it to keep your snorkel in the best condition possible. If you don’t have a toothbrush, a simple toothpick will do. Just make sure to scrub your snorkel thoroughly with a toothbrush before you put it in your bag. You can also clean it more thoroughly with a toothbrush once you get home.
Keep it in the shade.
It may be tempting to snorkel in the sun, especially if you’re going to be in the ocean. However, since snorkeling underwater is blind, you need to protect your eyes. This means using a canopy or another shade to help keep the sun out.
Or, keep it inside your water travel bag. They’re waterproof and can provide some shade for you, too!
Clean it right away
This is important. If you can smell or even see that your snorkel has been stored in a dirty or unclean environment, it will most likely get worse in the water. Plus, germs tend to get into the water faster than you can keep them out.
You want to make sure that you’re able to give it a quick once-over to clean out the interior and exterior. This is where you can remove any excess string from the handle.
Store in a container when not in use
You probably keep your snorkel in a case when you’re not using it. While you might prefer to keep your snorkel on your deck during the day and on your bike when you’re riding around, you might want to consider storing it in a metal container during the winter months. If you plan to take your snorkel out on your boat, you’ll want to store it in a tackle box or a waterproof container to protect it from the elements.
Don’t leave the snorkel in the water
It’s a terrible feeling when you finally do get out into the water, but your snorkel isn’t close to your mask.
How to clean a rubber snorkel
You probably already know the important role that rubber snorkels have in snorkeling safety. They keep the water out of your mouth, nose, and ears. So, it’s important always to keep them clean. Luckily, this is easy to do. Just run it under cold, tap water for a few seconds, and then rinse it off underwater.
How to clean your snorkel earplugs
So, earplugs play a role in snorkeling safety too. What you may not know, however, is that they can be a source of problems too! The water in the pool you swim in can be an important part of your snorkeling experience, but it can be deadly for snorkels too!
If your snorkel is equipped with rubber earplugs, make sure you take them out for a few hours to avoid contaminating the snorkel and water with pool water.
How to clean a silicone snorkel
Chlorine, sweat, oil, and sunscreen build up, making it hard to see underwater. Your snorkel needs to be cleaned regularly so that it’s the best it can be for you on your next trip. Here are some tips for cleaning your snorkel.
Ensure your snorkel has good circulation. If your snorkel has hard bits, like silicone, it can become hard to clean without taking it apart first. You should switch it out when it starts to get old. The silicone has no soft bits.
Take it out of the package. You can also clean it without using it, but you will need to let it sit in the sink for a few minutes. Dissolve the cleaning solution in warm water. Make sure it’s not too hot.
Dip your snorkel tube into the solution. Allow the water to cleanse the snorkel and rinse it out. Take it apart and shake it around.
Final Thoughts
Snorkeling has become more and more popular over the years, which is great for those looking for a fun way to cool off. To ensure that you have the best experience out there, you’ll want to make sure that your snorkel is in good shape. You can make this task easier by following our tips and making sure you get the right equipment. You can even find yourself a great deal by snorkeling at a brand new snorkel shop!
