How to Use Sensor Clean and Smear Away Solutions

Quick Answer

Use Sensor Clean first for light dust and water-based stains; switch to Smear Away only if oil or lubricant residue remains. Both require MXD-100 Green swabs and a dry final pass.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Prepare the sensor and swab: Lock the mirror up (DSLR) or enter sensor cleaning mode (mirrorless). Attach a fresh MXD-100 Green swab to the handle. Do not touch the swab tip. Common mistake: using a swab that has been exposed to dust or touched.
2. Apply one drop of Sensor Clean: Place one drop of Sensor Clean onto the swab pad, near the center. Do not saturate the pad — excess liquid can seep into the sensor edges. Checkpoint: one drop only; if the pad looks wet but not dripping, you have the right amount.
3. Wipe the sensor in one pass: Place the swab flat against the sensor surface. Drag it from one side to the other in a smooth, continuous motion. Do not stop mid-pass or press hard. Common mistake: stopping mid-pass leaves a streak. If you stop, discard the swab and start over.
4. Dry pass with a fresh swab: Take a new dry MXD-100 Green swab and make one pass in the same direction. This removes any lingering liquid and ensures an even finish. Always use a separate dry swab — reusing the wet one spreads residue.
5. Inspect and repeat if oil remains: Check the sensor with a loupe or test shot. If you see oily smears, repeat steps 2–4 using Smear Away instead of Sensor Clean. Do not mix liquids on the same swab. Use a fresh swab for each solution.

Products Referenced

• VisibleDust Sensor Clean Solution (8ml): Removes water-based stains and light dust contamination; has dust repellent and anti-fogging properties. Start with Sensor Clean for routine cleaning — it handles the most common sensor debris safely.

  

• VisibleDust Smear Away Solution (8ml): Removes stubborn stains such as oil and lubricant; provides an anti-static barrier. Only use Smear Away when you see oily residue that Sensor Clean left behind.