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How to Clean you Binoculars - South West Optics

Cleaning your Binoculars - How to do it like a Pro!

This week we are going delve into how to keep your Binoculars in tip-top condition. Whether you're a keen birdwatcher, a nature enthusiast, or someone who loves to take in the beauty of the outdoors, keeping your binoculars in top condition is essential. After all, your binoculars are your window to the wild — helping you spot everything from the tiniest birds to the furthest mountain peaks. But you may have noticed that with regular use, they can accumulate dirt, dust, and even pesky rain stains that obscure your view.

You might think this a daunting task, however, we have some good news for you, cleaning your binoculars isn’t as tricky as it sounds — even if you’ve got a high-end pair of optics in need of a clean

It's easier than you think to keep them in pristine condition, and with the right technique, you won't have to worry about damaging them, meaning no more excuses for putting it off!


1. Don't Be Afraid to Get Hands-On

When the time comes to tackle cleaning your optics, there is no need to hesitate, even if you are dealing with premium binoculars. We understand you might be worried about scratching or damaging the lenses, but there is no need, your binoculars have been designed to be used outside and with durability in mind. This means they can handle a little care and attention, meaning no more excuses when it comes to cleaning them! 

If you have a quality pair of binoculars, don’t be afraid to carefully remove the eyepieces to give them a deeper clean. Unscrewing the eyepiece is simple and allows you easy access to your lenses, allowing you to give them a deeper clean. You can even rinse them under a tap to remove heavy debris such as dirt or sand.

Just make sure to avoid using soap or any abrasive cleaners—these can damage the coatings on your lenses.


2. Rinse with Water, Not Soap

When it comes to removing those tougher stains — be it marks from rain, sticky smudges, or the remnants of outdoor adventures — you can gently rinse under cold, clean water and it will do wonders for removing all those unwanted marks. 

How to clean your binoculars - South West Optics

Don’t worry you don’t need anything fancy, tap water is perfectly fine for this. Hold your binoculars carefully and let the water run over the lenses to wash away any large particles, dust, or grime. The goal here is to loosen and remove the worst of the debris before you move on to the more delicate cleaning steps.

NEVER USE SOAP! While it might seem tempting, soap can leave residue on the lenses which can impair your viewing experience. Plus, harsh chemicals can affect the lens coatings, which are there to enhance your optical clarity. A simple rinse will do!


3. Pat Dry with a Microfibre Cloth

Microfibre cloth - South West Optics

Once you've rinsed off the majority of dirt and debris, gently dry your binoculars with a soft, lint-free microfibre cloth. This is essential for ensuring you don’t scratch or leave streaks on the lenses. Make sure you blot any excess water rather than rubbing, as rubbing can inadvertently grind tiny particles into the glass, leading to scratches, and we don’t want that!

Take your time with this step — a clean, dry surface will ensure that no leftover water spots or streaks distract you during your next birdwatching trip.


4. Give the Eyepieces Some TLC

Lens Cleaning Pen - South West Optics

You will often find that the eyepieces are where dirt and grime accumulate the most, especially those of you who have to wear glasses or are prone to handling their binoculars with muddy hands. 

To clean them, you can simply wipe them down with a microfibre cloth, or if needed, use a special lens brush or air blower to remove stubborn dirt. Be gentle, and avoid touching the lens surface directly with your fingers to prevent smudges, and make more cleaning for you!


5. Store Your Binoculars Properly

Binocular Harness Packs here - South West Optics

To keep your binoculars in optimal condition, make sure you always store

 them in a

protective case when not in use. This is a great way to help prevent dust and dirt from settling on the lenses. 

In addition, if you're storing your binoculars for an extended period, make sure they’re kept in a cool, dry place. Humidity and extreme temperatures can affect the optics and potentially cause internal fogging, which is not something we want!


Conclusion: Keep Your View Crystal Clear

Binoculars are an investment in your adventures — whether you're spotting rare wildlife or gazing at distant landscapes. By following these simple cleaning tips, you can ensure your binoculars remain in excellent working order for years to come. 

Remember, don't be afraid to remove the eyepiece and rinse your lenses gently with water. With a bit of care, you'll have a clear, unobstructed view of the world every time you look through them.

So, next time before you head out in the field, take a moment to clean your binoculars — it’s quick, easy, and will make all the difference in your outdoor experience. Happy viewing!


Now hear from Russell himself:

Here is a quick video from Russ with a quick explanation of how to clean your binoculars and how it will benefit your viewing experience: 


 Thanks for reading!

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