how to clean optic lenses?

View · by **EJSG19** on Sun Dec 23, 2012 11:55 pm

In short, what product/method works best for you to clean your scope or binocular lenses without harming the glass or coatings?

View · by **JustinPo** on Mon Dec 24, 2012 1:29 am

I use generic computer monitor cleaner and a microfiber cloth. The cloth won't scratch the optic and the monitor cleaner has no harsh chemicals in it so it won't mess with the optics coatings and such.

View · by **snlit3** on Mon Dec 24, 2012 1:48 am

Well when I clean my glasses I rub warm water on the glass with soap. Pat it with a cotton cloth, then wipe it with a lens cloth.

View · by **xd ED** on Mon Dec 24, 2012 6:40 am

snlit3 wrote:Well when I clean my glasses I rub warm water on the glass with soap. Pat it with a cotton cloth, then wipe it with a lens cloth.

My method as well.The warm, soapy water lifts any oils, and provides lubrication to help prevent abrasion of the coating.

View · by **rugershooter6823** on Mon Dec 24, 2012 6:41 am

I use the same stuff that you buy at the oakley shop for polarized glasses. I know from experience anything like windex with ammonia in it will start to peel off the polarized coating. And if you buy the $10 bottle you get free refills!

View · by JJ on Mon Dec 24, 2012 8:07 am

Rubbing alcohol for general debris/oil, vinegar for any water spots. So I do alcohol to general clean, followed my vinegar for the water spots, followed by vinegar.

View · by **promod1385** on Mon Dec 24, 2012 10:22 am

Lens cloth or lens pen here depending on what is available. I have used the alcohol method too it works about the same as a lens wipe. You can get disposable Zeiss brand lens wipes at Walmart for about $4 for a 100. I always keep a few in my range bag as well as my hunting pack.

View · by **aaron878** on Mon Dec 24, 2012 10:59 am

Lens pens work great, and there is no danger of damaging anything or leaving streaks with a liquid cleaner.

View · by **jshuberg** on Mon Dec 24, 2012 1:52 pm

I blow the lens with compressed air to remove any particulates, then use an individually sealed pre-moistened lens cloth that you can pickup at Target optical for free. I use a corner of the lens cloth gently around the outside edge of the lens to lift out any debris that has been pushed off to the side. I give it another blast of compressed air, squirt it with a lens cleaner, and wipe down the face of the lens with the cloth.

View · by **arizona98tj** on Mon Dec 24, 2012 5:28 pm

xd ED wrote:
snlit3 wrote:Well when I clean my glasses I rub warm water on the glass with soap. Pat it with a cotton cloth, then wipe it with a lens cloth.

My method as well.The warm, soapy water lifts any oils, and provides lubrication to help prevent abrasion of the coating.

And any residual soap helps reduce/eliminate fogging too. I used a slightly soapy mixture on my helmet visor years ago for racing in cool/cold weather. Worked very well.