Proper Cleaning Method for Modern Lenses

[Bruce Gavin]

Thanks for all the replies. From what I gather, no lens should be dry-wiped due to danger of micro scratching the glass or coatings.

It sounds like the method is to first blow off any chunks with a squeeze bulb or canned air, then take a quick swipe with a dusting brush. Apply Formula MC with lens tissue instead of using Kodak Lens Cleaner, as it leaves less film residue. Finally, use a micro fiber cleaning cloth to dry the cleaner and remove any residues. Check the job by shining a light up through the lens.

[Chris Hawkins]

Try a Lens Pen which are available from many local & mail order camera stores. A photo.net search will turn up many references to this handy device.

[Howard Slavitt]

I agree. Lenspens are the most effective method I've found for cleaning lenses and minimizing the possibility of scratching the lens. They're not cheap and I replace mine every 3-4 months or so, but they work well.