"Those plastic sleeves are handy for sure, but have you found they fog up or get condensation inside when you're working in damp areas like under sinks or basements?"
Yeah, I've noticed that too, but honestly, I stopped using sleeves altogether. I just snap a quick pic of the diagram with my phone before I crawl under the sink. Easier to zoom in and no fogging issues. Plus, if I drop it (which...has happened), it's not as slippery as plastic sleeves. Maybe give that a try instead?
I've had the same fogging issue with those sleeves, especially when I'm down in the basement or under the sink. Thought it was just me being clumsy or something, haha. The phone pic idea is pretty clever, though I admit I'm always paranoid about dropping mine into a puddle or something. I usually scribble down a quick sketch or notes on scrap paper—old-school, I know, but it works for me. Plus, less plastic waste, which is always a bonus in my book. But yeah, totally get the frustration with foggy sleeves...nothing worse than squinting at blurry diagrams when you're already cramped and uncomfortable under there. Glad I'm not alone in this!
I've had the fogging issue too, but honestly, I gave up on those sleeves a while back. They always seemed like a good idea in theory, but in practice...meh. I usually just tape my notes or diagrams to a piece of cardboard or scrap wood—whatever's handy. Keeps them dry enough, and no fogging issues. Plus, it's free, which is always a win in my book.
The phone pic thing is clever, but I'm with you on the paranoia. Last time I tried that, I nearly dropped my phone into the sump pit—talk about a mini heart attack moment. After that close call, I decided to stick with paper and pencil. Old-school maybe, but at least if it falls into water or gets dirty, I'm not out hundreds of bucks.
One thing I've found helpful is using painter's tape to stick diagrams or notes right onto the cabinet door or wall nearby. It peels off cleanly afterward and keeps everything at eye level without needing to juggle anything extra. Also, if you're worried about moisture ruining your notes, you could try using a grease pencil or even a sharpie on something like cardboard—holds up surprisingly well even if it gets damp.
I do like your point about plastic waste though...never really thought about that angle before. Makes me feel better about my cheapo cardboard-and-tape method!
Painter's tape is a lifesaver—use it for everything. I used to do the phone thing too, until mine took a dive into the toilet (don't ask). Now it's strictly pencil and cardboard scraps for me. Never tried grease pencils though...might have to raid my kid's art supplies next time I'm under the sink.
"Painter's tape is a lifesaver—use it for everything."
Couldn't agree more about painter's tape. I've labeled shutoff valves, marked stud locations, and even temporarily patched a cracked pipe with it until I could get proper supplies. Learned my lesson about phones too—mine nearly went swimming while checking a faucet leak. Since then, I've stuck to jotting notes on leftover wood shims or old tile scraps. Grease pencils sound interesting, though; curious how well they'd hold up if things get damp...
