Cleaning Lens - How Best to Do It?

[landryrk]

OK, dusting off my M3. 50mm F2 Summicron has been protected by UV filter for 30 years. Maybe I should remove filter, clean both sides and clean primary optics. Will microfiber cloth be OK or should I also use some solvents?

Dumb question, I know. But suggestions and flames welcome!

 

[clintock]

I like using the fluid and cloth sold for use with eyeglasses. Costco sells a nice kit with a keychain screwdriver that fits the rf adjust screw of some things.

The thing to remember is not to touch the cloth in the area that is going to be doing the wiping on the glass. Don't wipe the lens, then flip the cloth to the side that was in contact with fingers to wipe again..
I mist a little cleaning fluid on the cloth and wipe with as little pressure as gets the job done, especially on older summicrons, whose coatings are about as robust as a soap bubble.

 

[dll927]

Recently I've seen several recommendations for using micro-fiber cloths. I have had a couple show up with new lenses. They are washable, but DON'T use fabric softener on them - it can leave a cloudy deposit. I think it makes sense with these cloths to do as mentioned above - don't touch the surface you'll use on the lens.

 

[Graham Line]

If the back end has been hiding inside the camera body, and the front has been covered by a filter, why does it need to be cleaned? Unless you can see a problem, leave it alone.
Otherwise, dust it with a soft brush, use a half-drop of cleaning fluid on a clean microfiber cloth, and very little pressure. Most people clean lenses more often than necessary.

 

[LeicaM3]

If the back end has been hiding inside the camera body, and the front has been covered by a filter, why does it need to be cleaned?

I am with Joe here.

Clean the filter?
Get a new filter and put it on?

Andreas

 

[dll927]

That is all true, but what about changing lenses? Yes, I religiously keep caps on both ends of a lens not on the camera, but at least under some conditions, even changing the lens can raise the issue. And what about those who swear you don't need a filter on a lens? I always do, but some claim it 'degrades' images.

When all is said and done, it depends on how one goes about using his/her equipment. Heavy use, and under varying conditions, would seem to make occasional cleaning more likely. So it's probably mostly a matter of personal use, although I've never heard anyone say that at least an occasional cleaning up will cause any harm, and might help.

 

[Matthew Runkel]

those who swear you don't need a filter on a lens

Of course you don't "need" a filter on a lens. That has never been in dispute.

 

[ferider]

I would just take the filter off, clean or replace it, dust the lens with compressed air, put the filter back on. Not touch the coating if not needed. Clean the filter like you would clean glasses, with soap water if necessary.

Roland.