Caring For Camera Bellows: Maintenance Tips For Longevity

Camera bellows are prone to drying out and tearing with age or misuse, so proper care is essential to keep them in good condition. The keys to prolonging the life of camera bellows include avoiding prolonged exposure to UV light, refraining from leaving the bellows stretched out for extended periods, and regular cleaning. While there are various products available for treating bellows, such as Armorall, Venetian Cream, and Lexol, it's important to use them sparingly and avoid over-application, as this can attract dust and dirt. For leather bellows, mild soapy water, saddle soap, and silicone-based leather protectants can be used, while fabric bellows may require different treatments. Regular maintenance and proper storage of camera bellows are crucial to prevent damage and ensure their longevity.

How to Care for Camera Bellows

Avoid prolonged exposure to UV light and don't leave the bellows stretched out

The keys to prolonging the life of camera bellows are to avoid prolonged exposure to UV light and to not leave the bellows stretched out to their full length.

Avoid Prolonged Exposure to UV Light

UV light, or ultraviolet light, is a type of radiation that is invisible to the human eye. It can be emitted by the sun or by artificial sources such as flash units and UV lamps. While UV light has many useful applications, including photography, it can also be damaging to certain materials.

Camera bellows, particularly those made of leather, are susceptible to damage from UV light. Prolonged exposure can cause the bellows to dry out, crack, and tear. Therefore, it is important to avoid leaving the camera and bellows exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. When not in use, store the camera in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Don't Leave the Bellows Stretched Out

Leaving the bellows stretched out to their full length for extended periods can also cause fatigue and damage. The fabric can become strained and saggy, and the glue that holds the bellows together can dry out and weaken. This can lead to the bellows losing their shape and becoming less flexible over time.

To prevent this, avoid displaying the camera with the bellows pulled out to their full extension. Instead, keep the bellows relaxed in their infinity focus position or even further back if possible. Regularly moving the bellows in and out, rather than keeping them in a fixed position, can also help maintain their flexibility.

By following these simple guidelines, you can effectively care for your camera bellows and prolong their lifespan.

Keep the bellows clean

Keeping your camera bellows clean is essential for maintaining their longevity and functionality. Here are some detailed tips to keep the bellows clean:

Firstly, it is important to avoid prolonged exposure to UV light or sunlight. This can cause fading and discolouration, as well as drying out the material over time. When not in use, store your camera in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a drawer or a box. Avoid displaying the camera with the bellows extended, as this can lead to fatigue and increased dust collection. Always push the bellows back in when not in use.

Regularly cleaning the bellows is also important. Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe down the surface, removing any dust or dirt buildup. Be careful not to use too much water, as this can damage the glue or cause water stains. For more thorough cleaning, consider using a mild soap solution or a specialised leather cleaner, being sure to rinse and dry the bellows thoroughly afterward.

In addition to cleaning, conditioning the bellows can help keep the material supple and prevent cracking. There are various products available for this purpose, such as neatsfoot oil, Lexol, or Connolly Hide Care. However, be cautious when applying any product, as overuse can lead to excess residue and potential discolouration. Always follow the instructions on the product and test on a small area first if possible.

Finally, be mindful of the materials you use with your camera. Avoid using products like Armor-All, as these can be detrimental to the leather and cause more harm than good. Instead, opt for specialised leather care products and always apply them sparingly with a soft cloth.

Use a mild soapy water solution, followed by saddle soap, a silicone-based leather protectant, and shoe cream

When it comes to cleaning and caring for your camera bellows, a mild soapy water solution followed by saddle soap, a silicone-based leather protectant, and shoe cream can be an effective approach. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

Cleaning with Mild Soapy Water:

• Start by diluting a small amount of mild soap or detergent in a bowl of water.
• Use a clean, damp cloth to gently wipe down the bellows, removing any dust, dirt, or debris. Be gentle and avoid applying too much pressure to the bellows.
• Ensure that you support the bellows from the inside while cleaning to avoid creating misfolds.
• Once you've cleaned the entire surface, use a separate damp cloth with clean water to rinse off any soap residue.
• Gently wipe the bellows with a dry cloth and allow them to air dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Using Saddle Soap:

• Purchase a high-quality saddle soap designed for leather care.
• Prepare your workspace by laying out a clean cloth or towel and gathering the necessary tools, including the saddle soap, a clean cloth or sponge, and a bowl of clean water.
• Before applying the saddle soap, ensure that the bellows are clean by using a damp cloth to remove any lingering dust or debris, especially in areas with seams and overlaps.
• Take a small amount of saddle soap and apply it to a clean cloth or sponge.
• Gently dab or rub the saddle soap onto the bellows in a clockwise motion. Work in small sections until you've covered the entire surface.
• Use a dry, clean cloth to wipe off any excess soap from the bellows.
• Allow the bellows to dry naturally in a shaded area. Avoid using any heat sources to speed up the drying process, as this can damage the leather.

Applying a Silicone-Based Leather Protectant:

• Choose a protectant designed specifically for leather, such as Armor-All or a similar silicone-based product.
• Follow the instructions on the product and apply a thin, even coat to the bellows using a soft cloth or sponge.
• Allow the protectant to dry completely before using the bellows.

Conditioning with Shoe Cream:

• Select a high-quality shoe cream designed for leather, such as Saphir Cream Polish or a similar product.
• Using your fingers or a soft cloth, apply a small amount of shoe cream to the bellows in sections, working it into the leather in small circles.
• Spread the cream evenly, allowing it to soak into the pores of the leather rather than forming thick layers on top.
• Once you've covered the entire surface, let the conditioner rest for a few minutes before using a soft brush or cloth to remove any excess.
• If desired, finish with a layer of wax polish to add shine and extra protection.

Remember to always test any cleaning or conditioning products on a small, inconspicuous area of the bellows first to ensure they don't cause any discolouration or damage. Additionally, it's important to condition and protect your camera bellows regularly, especially if you use them frequently or expose them to harsh environments.

Don't use too much water, as this could affect the glue or shellac

When cleaning camera bellows, it's important to be mindful of the amount of water used. While a mild soapy water solution can be applied with a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the leather, it's crucial not to use too much water, as this can affect the glue or shellac that attaches the leather to the camera. Excess water can cause the glue or shellac to loosen, potentially leading to the detachment of the leather from the camera body. Therefore, it's recommended to use a damp cloth or toothbrush sparingly moistened with water to clean the bellows, ensuring that the leather doesn't get too wet.

The same principle applies when using products like saddle soap or leather cleaners. While these products can be effective in cleaning and conditioning the leather, it's important to use them sparingly and avoid over-saturating the bellows with the product. After cleaning, it's advisable to rinse the bellows with a cloth dampened with clean water and then allow it to air dry before applying any further treatments.

In addition to water, certain oils and treatments can also affect the glue or shellac on camera bellows. For example, neat's foot oil is known to have the potential to dissolve the glue along the bellows' seam over time. Therefore, it's important to use these types of products sparingly and avoid over-application, as excess oil can seep into the seams and affect the adhesion.

To maintain the integrity of the glue or shellac, it's recommended to use products specifically designed for camera bellows or leather care. Some suggested products include Lexol, Venetian Cream, and Connolly Hide Care. These products are designed to condition and protect the leather without compromising the adhesion of the bellows to the camera body. When applying any treatment, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid over-application to prevent any potential issues with the glue or shellac.

Neatsfoot oil can be used to treat dry and brittle leather

Camera bellows, especially older ones, are often made of leather. To keep them in good shape, they should be cared for in the same way as any other fine leather item.

Neatsfoot oil is a popular option for treating leather. It is a yellow oil derived from the shin and foot bones of cattle and other hoofed animals. It is used to condition, soften, and preserve leather items.

When using neatsfoot oil, it is important to ensure that you are using pure neatsfoot oil, as the compound version can cause leather to become brittle over time due to oxidation. Before applying, test the oil on a small patch of the leather to check how it will affect the material. To apply, rub a small amount of oil onto a microfiber cloth and then onto the leather in thin coats. You can also heat the oil to between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit to help the leather absorb it better and faster. After application, leave the bellows extended for about 24 hours to allow the oil to cure and soak in.

Neatsfoot oil is inexpensive and a little goes a long way. However, it may darken the colour of the leather and leave an oily residue that attracts dust. Therefore, it is important to only use a small amount and to buff the leather with a soft brush after application.

Frequently asked questions