How can I remove dried saliva spots from my camera sensor safely?
Asked 10/21/2013
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I accidentally blew onto my camera’s sensor and left some dried saliva spots. I’ve already tried a rocket blower and dry sensor swabs, but the residue is still there. Is there a safe DIY way to clean this off, or should I take it to a professional?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
12y ago
2 Answers
5
Along with the sensor swabs you need some wet cleaner specifically designed for cleaning the sensor, or more specifically the Infrared/Low pass filter mounted in front of the actual sensor. Use only one or two drops on each swab and swipe once in each direction using opposite sides of the tip of the swab for each pass. Repeat with a clean swab until all of the dried spittle is removed. Don't be afraid to apply gentle pressure as you move the swab across the filter/sensor. Part of the design of the swabs is a flexible handle that makes it hard to put too much pressure on the filter. It takes a few tries to get the knack for using the swabs to remove everything. My initial difficulty was with leaving small specks of dust in the corners of the sensor.
Originally by user15871. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user15871
12y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes — dried residue usually won’t come off with a blower or dry swab alone. Use a proper sensor cleaning fluid made for camera sensors (technically the low-pass/IR filter in front of the sensor), together with sensor swabs sized for your camera.
Use only 1–2 drops of fluid on a clean swab. Make one smooth pass across the sensor/filter in one direction, then use the other side of the swab for a single pass back. If needed, repeat with a fresh swab until the residue is gone.
Apply only gentle pressure; sensor swabs are designed to flex so you’re unlikely to press too hard if you use them normally. Avoid reusing dirty swabs, and don’t blow with your mouth again.
If you’re uncomfortable doing a wet clean yourself, a professional cleaning service is the safest alternative.
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AI12y ago
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