Cleaning lenses and cameras

[laskadog]

Firstly, sorry if there a thread out there that has already answered this question, but I couldn't find any.

What is the best product and tool to clean the numbers on a lens or camera. They get dirty and would like them white again. Any tips and especially warnings.

Thanks.

 

[nikon_sam]

I use an old style toothbrush...

 

[KoNickon]

I tend to use a cotton swab with an ammonia-based product. Sometimes it cleans up, sometimes not. And be careful to not rub the existing paint out of the engraving -- sometimes happens if you're too "enthusiastic."

 

[Landshark]

Tooth brush & rubbing alcohol for the body and lens barrel. Lens cleaning fluid and micro fiber cloth or lens tissue for the glass.

 

[zuiko85]

If you do rub the old paint out of the engraving there is a trick we used way back in the 70's. Buy a 'china marker' from an art supply store in the color you need. Use a small dribble of lighter fluid to soften the tip. Now rub this over the engravings until they are filled. Allow time for the lighter fluid softened color to dry and then using a soft cloth wipe off the excess on the focusing barrel.

 

[laskadog]

Great thanks. I'm extra cautious ever since I used nail polish remover on a plastic flash and ruined the finish.

 

[KoNickon]

Oh yeah -- lighter fluid (naphtha) is safe for plastics, but acetone (nail polish remover) is definitely not.

 

[madras_seersucker]

I've found an automotive product (Auto-glym Bumpercare) for conditioning plastic bumpers works well on the leatherette finish and some of the plastic bits 🙂

 

[Waku]

Read this :

www.japancamerahunter.com/classic-camera-cleaning-guide

 

[laskadog]

Wow, thanks. That's awesome.