How do I safely remove mold from the outside of a DSLR body?
Asked 2/1/2017
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2 answers
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I found mold on the exterior of my DSLR after it sat unused over winter, mainly around the outside of the lens mount area. I don’t see any signs of mold inside the camera or on the lens elements. Can this be cleaned at home, and if so, what should I use and how careful do I need to be around openings and seams? I’ve heard suggestions like isopropyl alcohol or a diluted vinegar solution.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
9y ago
2 Answers
2
I read online one thread on the photoforum.com that was successful in cleaning and this is how it was done:
Make a 50/50 water/vinegar solution.
After cleaning the mold, dry the camera under a warm lamp with a small fan blowing warm air into the body to make sure any drop of vinegar has evaporated.
Expose it to a UV light so that the mold won't ever come again.
P.S. Be careful not to drop anything inside [plus you could use H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) as an alternative to vinegar but I wouldn't recommend it, as it could react with the metal (body of camera).]
Originally by user60673. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user60673
9y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes—if the mold is only on the exterior, you can usually clean it yourself carefully. Community suggestions were:
- Use rubbing alcohol/isopropyl alcohol on a soft swab or Q-tip for tight areas.
- An alternative suggested was a 50/50 water-vinegar mix.
Whichever you use, apply it to the swab/cloth rather than directly onto the camera, and avoid letting any liquid get into seams, buttons, ports, or the lens mount/body opening. Use only a lightly dampened swab and work gently.
After cleaning, make sure the camera is fully dry before storing it. One answer suggested drying it in a warm, well-ventilated area with gentle airflow. To help prevent recurrence, store the camera in a dry place and use dehumidifier/silica gel packets, especially if you live in a humid climate or store gear for long periods.
If you later notice mold inside the camera or on/in a lens, professional service is the safer choice.
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AI9y ago
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