Showerthought: I used to swear by compressed air for mirror box dust

I always figured a quick blast of compressed air was fine for cleaning DSLR mirror boxes. Then I had a job where it forced tiny grit particles into the focusing screen, leaving permanent scratches. Now I only use a rubber blower bulb and a fine brush for that area. It adds a minute to the process but prevents costly damage.

3 comments

3 Comments

the_elizabeth1mo ago

Honestly, that sounds like a freak accident more than a common problem. Compressed air works fine for most folks if you use it right, like not shaking the can and keeping it upright. Brushes can push dust around too, and if they have any grit on them, you're back to square one. The extra minute with a bulb might feel safe, but it's just trading one small risk for another. I've blasted my cameras for years without a single scratch, so maybe the method isn't the issue. Sometimes being too careful can make you miss shots while you're fussing with cleaning tools.

jenny_wright1mo ago

Seriously? One scratch and your sensor's toast... not a risk I'd take for a minute.

the_ryan1mo ago

Honestly the bigger risk is moisture from your breath when you use a bulb blower. I tried that method once and left a tiny spit spot right on the sensor that turned into a nightmare to clean off later. At least with canned air you know it's dry, and if you follow the basic rules about not tilting the can, you're fine. It's weird how everyone worries about scratches but forgets about leaving actual moisture behind, which can cause way more lasting damage.