Sensor cleaning

[Bukitimah]

Hi guys, I have been sending my camera to the service centre for my sensor cleaning. Although it cost around $22 USD per clean, I find that I am having dust quite often.

I was introduced to Copperhill and watched the video on how to clean the sensor. It looks simple enough but Copperhill is not available here in Singapore.

I would like to check with you guys what methods you use to clean your sensor. I once tried using cotton butt but it left behind some fiber. It is actually not too difficult if you have the right tools and product. If you have any link to any DIY, I would appreciate.

I understand when you clean the sensor, you are not actually touching the sensor but the protective glass above it. So, as long as the contact does leave marks, it should be OK. What kind of swabs would not cause problem?

 

[480sparky]

If you use commercially-available products according to the instructions, you should be fine.

Don't try to drown the swab if you're using a we-cleaning product. Just a drop or two, enough to dampen it.

Don't fret... you really have to work hard and get real stupid to screw your camera up.

 

[nickt]

I make my own:
DIY Projects - Cleaning Digital Cameras - D-SLR Sensor Cleaning.
You may note that Pec pads have a warning on their website that they are not recommended for sensor cleaning. They used to be recommended for sensor cleaning, but then they (Photographic Solution Co) started selling overpriced sensor cleaning swabs so they put that warning up on the pec pads. Pec pads work fine with a little eclipse fluid. Never use cotton or paper towels or tissue paper.
I also have a static brush. When I have dust, I first try a blower, then the static brush and finally a wet cleaning with a pec pad wrapped on a plastic knife cut square.

 

[Ironwood]

I have one of these kits, the loupe makes it so easy to see what you are doing
100 Genuine Lenspen CCD Sensor Klear Loupe Kit for Nikon Canon Sony Camera | eBay

I also bought some "Green Clean" swabs that I use.

The first time you clean your sensor is the hardest, by the second or third time you will have overcome your fear and it will be no problem.

 

[Bukitimah]

I have used the cotton butt to clean the sensor before. Therefore I do know it is not untouchable. Of course I will not be trying cotton butt again but looking for something more acceptable. Unfortunately, self sensor cleaning is still not too common here. Most established shop don't sell them.