There’s nothing more annoying than diving into the pool or the sea, ready for a smooth swim, only to have your goggles fog up after five minutes. You wipe them, rinse them, and try every trick in the book—but the fog always returns.
Desperate for a solution, I went down a rabbit hole of weird anti-fog hacks used by pro swimmers. Some were downright bizarre (baby shampoo? Spit?), but others were shockingly effective. So, I tested them all—here’s what actually works and what’s just a myth.
Why Do Goggles Fog Up in the First Place?
Before we get to the fixes, let’s understand the enemy:
- Condensation happens when warm air from your face meets the cooler lens of your goggles.
- Residual oils (from skin, sunscreen, or manufacturing) make fog stick worse.
- Cheap or worn-out goggles fog up faster because their anti-fog coating wears off.
Now, let’s test the tricks!
The Weird (But Effective) Anti-Fog Hacks
1. The Classic: Spit & Swish (Works… Kinda)
What pros say: “Just spit in your goggles, swirl it around, and rinse lightly.”
Does it work? Surprisingly, yes—but temporarily. Saliva leaves a thin film that delays fogging.
Downside: It’s gross, and you’ll need to reapply mid-swim.
Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐ (Good in a pinch, but not a long-term fix)
2. Baby Shampoo (The Secret of Olympians)
What pros say: “A drop of baby shampoo rubbed inside the lens prevents fog for days.”
Does it work? Shockingly well! The mild surfactants create a fog-resistant layer.
How to do it:
- Rub one drop inside each lens.
- Rinse lightly (don’t wash it all off!).
- Let air dry before swimming.
Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Lasts multiple swims, no irritation)
3. Toothpaste (The Oddball Fix)
What pros say: “Non-gel toothpaste scrubbed into the lens works like a charm.”
Does it work? Yes, but be careful. Whitening toothpaste can scratch lenses.
Best method:
- Use a tiny dab of plain white toothpaste.
- Gently rub in circles, then rinse thoroughly.
Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Works great, but risky for coated lenses)
4. Potato Juice (Yes, Really)
What pros say: “Rubbing a raw potato on the lens prevents fog.”
Does it work? Bizarrely, yes. The starch leaves a thin anti-fog layer.
Downside: You’ll look weird carrying a potato to the pool.
Verdict: ⭐⭐ (Effective but impractical)
5. Dish Soap (The Pool Bag Hack)
What pros say: “A tiny drop of dish soap does the same thing as baby shampoo.”
Does it work? Yes, but can sting if it gets in your eyes.
Pro tip: Use unscented, mild soap and rinse well.
Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐ (Good backup option)
The Anti-Fog Tricks That DON’T Work (Myths Busted)
❌ Licking the lens – Just makes it worse.
❌ Rubbing with fingers – Spreads oils, causing more fog.
❌ Leaving goggles in the sun – Doesn’t prevent fog, may damage them.
❌ Commercial anti-fog sprays – Some work, but many wear off quickly.
The Best Long-Term Solution?
If you’re tired of DIY fixes, invest in:
✔ Quality goggles with long-lasting anti-fog coating (like Speedo Vanquishers).
✔ Anti-fog gel (designed for swim goggles, lasts longer than sprays).
✔ Proper goggle care (rinse with cold water, never wipe the inside).
Final Verdict: What’s the Best Anti-Fog Trick?
For quick fixes: Spit or dish soap.
For long-lasting results: Baby shampoo or toothpaste.
For no hassle: Buy good goggles and maintain them well.
Happy (fog-free) swimming! 🏊♂️💦