Camera Repairer how-to

How to Clean a Camera Sensor Safely

Sensors scratch easily.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Sensors scratch easily. In short: use; lock; use, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Use a blower first.

  2. Lock the mirror up.

  3. Use a sensor swab.

  4. One pass per side.

  5. Check with a test shot.

  6. Repeat only if needed.

Safety reminders for camera repairers

  • Use ESD protection
  • Handle flash capacitors carefully
  • Protect eyes
  • Ventilate cleaning solvents

Sensor · Shutter · Aperture · Autofocus · Collimator · Front focus: see the full camera repairer glossary.

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