Lens cleaning tip from a reader...


Here is a tip that was sent in by Miguel, one of our (long time) regular readers and I wanted to "share it with the class", so here it is (including a before, during, and after images):


You know how sometimes after you've had a lens for a while, the rubber grips (those external ones used on the focus and zoom rings) become a little gray?

Well, I came up with a quick method that makes the lens look like new again.


I thought maybe some of the other readers might appreciate it.

The cleaning process is fairly simple (just three things), Q-tips, Armor ALL, and a gentle cleaner (I used Windex).

1. I used a Q-tip with Windex on it to clean the rubber rings around the entire lens. Be careful to use enough cleaner to be effective, but not so much that it drips all over (or into) the lens.

2. Once the rubber grip(s) are thoroughly cleaned and completely dry, I applied a thin coat of Armor ALL in the same fashion, And just like the Windex, do not use so much that it drips all over (or into) the lens.

3. Let it dry completely (which takes just a couple of minutes) and then re-apply.

That's it, it's that simple!

(click on the image to view it larger and in a new window)


Thanks Miguel, and if you should have a tip or trick you'd like to share please feel free to email it to us.


3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Be careful with "protector" products.

Armor All has silicon in it to give it that shine. It also makes it slippery and a dust collector.

Armor All FAQ says not to use it on exterior black trim because it will turn gray.

Miguel Palaviccini said...

I did read about that, but after over 2 years of experience with this technique, I've never had the rubber turn gray. It also doesn't seem to be slippery once it's dried.

Miguel Palaviccini said...

Update ... lens still looks new :) No problems with discoloration either.