The Five Wrong Ways to Clean Security Cameras - Camera Shine

1. The Five Wrong Ways to Clean Security Cameras (And What to Do Instead) Camera Shine

2. Security cameras are essential for keeping properties secure, but they’re only effective if they provide a clear image. Over time, dust, dirt, cobwebs, and even bird droppings can obstruct the lens, leading to blurry footage and reduced surveillance quality. Cleaning your security cameras is a must—but many people go about it the wrong way, which can damage the camera or make the problem worse. Here are the five most common mistakes people make when cleaning security cameras—and how to do it the right way.

3. 1. Using Harsh Chemical Cleaners Many people assume that stronger is better when cleaning lenses, so they reach for household cleaners like Windex, bleach, or ammonia-based solutions. The problem? These chemicals can degrade the protective coatings on camera lenses, leading to permanent damage or distorted images. ✅ The Right Way: Use a camera-safe cleaning solution specifically designed for optics. A gentle, non-abrasive cleaner ensures that you won’t damage the lens while still removing dirt and smudges.

4. 2. Wiping the Lens with a Shirt or Paper Towel It’s tempting to give the camera lens a quick wipe with whatever’s nearby—your shirt sleeve, a paper towel, or even a tissue. However, these materials can cause micro-scratches on the lens, reducing image clarity over time. ✅ The Right Way: Always use a microfiber cloth to clean security camera lenses. Microfiber is soft and designed to lift dirt and oils without scratching delicate surfaces.

5. 3. Spraying Water or Cleaner Directly on the Camera A direct spray of liquid can seep into the camera housing, potentially damaging internal components or short-circuiting the system. Even if your camera is weather-resistant, forcing moisture into seams or openings can lead to fogging, condensation, or even mold growth inside the lens. ✅ The Right Way: Instead of spraying directly, apply the cleaner to a microfiber cloth first, then gently wipe the camera. For more sensitive areas, consider using an air blower to remove dust without adding moisture.

6. 4. Ignoring the Housing and Surroundings Many people only focus on cleaning the lens itself, forgetting that dirt and debris can build up on the camera housing, mounting brackets, or nearby surfaces. A dirty camera housing can attract insects, leading to spider webs that block the lens. ✅ The Right Way: Regularly clean the entire camera unit, including the housing and surrounding area. Use a soft brush or compressed air to clear dust from crevices and discourage pests from setting up camp.

7. 5. Climbing Ladders Without Proper Safety Precautions One of the most dangerous mistakes is attempting to clean high-mounted cameras with a shaky ladder, no safety gear, or an unsteady surface. Falls from ladders are a leading cause of workplace injuries, and a fall just to clean a camera isn’t worth the risk. ✅ The Right Way: Use a tool designed for safe, ground-level camera cleaning, like CameraShine, which allows you to clean cameras from the ground without needing a ladder. This method not only keeps technicians safe but also saves time and effort.