How can I stop condensation (not fog) build-up on my goggles?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the issue of condensation build-up on goggles, specifically in a laboratory setting. Participants explore various methods to prevent dew formation on the lenses, addressing both personal experiences and potential solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes experiencing significant dew condensation on their uvex stealth anti-fog goggles, attributing it possibly to sweating in the lab.
  • Another suggests applying a thin film of dish soap to the inside of the goggles as a potential remedy, noting that while it may not prevent fog, it could still help with condensation.
  • A different participant proposes wearing a sweatband to reduce sweat reaching the goggles and mentions the benefits of synthetic workout shirts for temperature regulation.
  • One suggestion involves rinsing the goggles with acetone to address residual condensation, although there is a caution about acetone's effects on plastics.
  • Another participant lists several cleaning agents, including vinegar, ammonia, bleach, and alcohol, as well as unconventional methods like rubbing a raw potato or using saliva to keep the surface clean.
  • Consultation with scuba divers is recommended by multiple participants, who suggest that diving techniques may offer insights into managing condensation.
  • One participant mentions the effectiveness of the "spit trick," where saliva is applied to the lenses to reduce surface tension and nucleation of water droplets.
  • Another recalls a skiing mask with a special antifog coating, noting its impracticality for lab use.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on a single effective solution, as multiple competing methods and opinions are presented regarding the best approach to prevent condensation on goggles.

Contextual Notes

Some suggestions depend on specific conditions, such as the type of goggles used and the environment in which they are worn. The effectiveness of various cleaning methods may vary based on the materials involved.

astroman707
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I have uvex stealth anti-fog chemistry goggles, and in lab the lenses build up with dew. It becomes so bad that I can't see and I have to regularly exit the lab every 15 minutes to wipe them off. I sweat when in the lab, so I'm not sure if that's why . There's no fog, just pure dew drop condensation. My professor just recommended buying another pair of goggles and switching back and forth the whole lab, which seems ridiculous to me. Anyone else have this problem? How can I fix this?
Thanks!
 
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A snorkeler's trick is to apply a very thin film of dish soap on the inside of the goggles. (I see now not fog, but could still help)

I sweat when in the lab, so I'm not sure if that's why .

That must be the main contribution. Maybe wear less layers in the lab?
 
Maybe try wearing a sweatband around your forehead? If you can get it to work with your goggles, that could keep condensation from forming. Also, have you tried wearing the new synthetic workout shirts? They are *much* cooler than regular cotton T-shirts...

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If it's sweat I've got no idea, but if it's residual condensation then try rinsing them with acetone
 
Three tricks that help:
Keep the surface super clean to eliminate nucleation sites. Acetone wipe sounds good but dissolves many plastics. Also try Vinegar, Ammonia, bleach, or alcohol.
Rub surface with a freshly cut raw potatoe.
Spread saliva on the surface.

[EDIT] I've heard of commercially available hydrophobic treatments/solutions but don't recall any details.
 
I would consult scuba divers.
 
If that headband is too bulky and keeps your goggles from sealing well, maybe look into the thinner-style "dew rags"...
Borek said:
I would consult scuba divers.
As Greg said, we use dish soap. Just be sure to rinse well before putting your mask on. You only under-rinse on one dive...

But in general, when diving, sweating into your mask isn't an issue. :smile:
 
  • #10
Have you tried the simple spit trick?
Spit on the inside of the lenses. Rub it around the whole surface. Rinse lightly with water.

Your spit should lower the surface tension, which should make for less obvious dewdrops, as well as reduce nucleation.
 
  • #11
berkeman said:
As Greg said, we use dish soap.

Well, I count myself as a scuba diver as well (just an OWD). I know of soap, I know of spitting, but they are great in water, not necessarily when working with a dry goggles. What I meant was that those diving in dry suits can have some more ideas.

Years ago I had a skiing mask with a special antifog coating on the internal side. Wouldn't be practical in the lab though.
 
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