How to Clean a Microscope Lens

The only time you should clean a microscope lens is when it is visibly dirty. The lens does not require a maintenance schedule for cleaning. If you see a spot on all powers of the microscope, it is most likely on the outside lens. Never remove a lens from the microscope. If you have determined that the spot on the lens is on the inside, be sure to take the microscope to a professional who specializes in cleaning microscopes.

Things You'll Need

• Squeeze bulb Can of compressed air with no cleaners Lint free paper Distilled water Isopropyl alcohol Acetone Amonia

Instructions

1. Blow on the lens using a squeeze bulb. The particles are often merely dust, and they are easily removed if you blow on the lens. If this does not work, go to step 2.

2. Use a can of compressed air. Be sure to select a spray that does not have any cleaners.

3. Wipe the lens with a lint free paper, such as Kimwipes, which is made for optical parts. Swipe the lens with the lint free paper; do not clean in a circular motion.

4. Use a solvent. Place a drop or two of solvent onto lint free paper. Hold it against the lens for a few seconds. This should dissolve the crud. Use distilled water first. If that does not work, try isopropyl alcohol that is at least 90 percent pure. If this does not work, go to step 5.

5. Clean the lens with acetone. Be very careful when using acetone because it can eat away the plastic parts of the microscope. Place the acetone on the lint free paper and swipe the lens with an upstroke motion. This is to be sure that droplets of acetone do not drip down onto the plastic parts of the microscope.

Tips & Warnings

• If the microscope has blood or other albuminous substances on the lens, then you will want to use a lint free paper dipped in a weak ammonia solution. The solution should be 2 tablespoons of ammonia per 1 cup of water.

References

• Microbus