The Best Way To Clean Your Car's Reverse Camera Lens

Keeping your car's reverse camera clean is essential for safety, but it can be a challenge due to road grime, rain, snow, and other elements. While some newer cars have features like a water jet or a protective cover to keep the camera clean, many car owners have to find creative solutions to this problem. One suggestion is to use a product like Rain-X Original or a similar hydrophobic spray to repel water and keep the lens clear. Others recommend regularly wiping down the camera with a microfiber cloth, a glass wipe, or even a licked thumb! Some car owners have designed their DIY solutions, such as using clear plastic or a microscope slide cover to create a protective barrier over the lens. While keeping your reverse camera clean can be a hassle, it's worth it for the improved visibility and safety when reversing your vehicle.

How to clean the reverse camera on your car

Use a microfiber cloth to clean the camera

To clean your car's reverse camera, it is recommended to use a microfiber cloth. Microfiber cloths are good for cleaning camera lenses as they are soft and non-abrasive. However, they can pick up solid particles, so it is important to shake out the cloth before use and ensure there are no trapped solids that could scratch the lens. Microfiber cloths designed for cleaning eyeglasses are a good option, as long as they do not contain cleaning solvents that could damage the lens coatings. It is also important to keep a dedicated microfiber cloth for your camera lens, separate from those used for other car cleaning purposes.

To clean the reverse camera, make it a habit to wipe down the lens with a microfiber cloth when refuelling your car. This will help to keep the camera free of dirt, grime, and fingerprints, ensuring a clear picture. You can also keep a microfiber cloth in your car, so it is readily available for cleaning the camera lens as needed.

Try a spray bottle with tap water to clean the lens

Keeping your car's reverse camera lens clean is important for maintaining clear visibility. While there are various commercial lens cleaning solutions and tools available, a simple and effective method is to use a spray bottle with tap water.

Prepare the Spray Bottle

Fill an empty spray bottle with regular tap water. Ensure the spray bottle is new or thoroughly cleaned to avoid any residue that may contaminate the water. If you have particularly hard water in your area, consider using distilled water to avoid leaving mineral deposits on the lens.

Park Your Car

For this method, it is best to clean the reverse camera lens when your car is parked, ideally in a garage or shaded area. This allows you to work at your own pace and avoid direct sunlight, which can cause the water to evaporate quickly, leaving water spots on the lens.

Inspect the Lens

Before cleaning, take a close look at the reverse camera lens to identify any stubborn dirt, grime, or debris. This will help you determine the level of cleaning required.

Spray the Lens

Hold the spray bottle a few inches away from the lens and gently mist the surface with the water. Avoid spraying too close or using a strong stream of water, as this may cause water to enter the camera housing and potentially damage the electronics.

Wipe the Lens

Using a clean, soft microfiber cloth, gently wipe the lens in a circular motion, working from the centre outward. Ensure the cloth is free of any dirt or debris that could scratch the lens. If needed, dampen the cloth slightly with water before wiping to help loosen and remove stubborn grime.

Dry the Lens

Once you have finished wiping the lens, use a dry section of the microfiber cloth or a separate dry cloth to gently absorb any remaining moisture. Ensure the lens is completely dry before using the reverse camera.

Maintenance

To maintain a clean reverse camera lens, incorporate this cleaning routine into your regular car care schedule. Depending on your driving conditions and the amount of dirt and grime buildup, you may need to clean the lens more or less frequently.

Additionally, consider using a lens protection filter or a UV filter. These filters are placed on the lens to protect it from dirt, grime, and minor scratches. They are relatively inexpensive and can be replaced if they become damaged, leaving your lens pristine underneath.

By following these steps and making it a habit to clean your car's reverse camera lens regularly, you can ensure clear visibility and improve your driving experience.

Apply a light coating of Rain-x Original to the lens

To apply a light coating of Rain-X Original to your reverse camera lens, start by cleaning the camera lens area thoroughly. You can use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the lens, ensuring that it is free of dirt, dust, and other debris.

Once the lens is clean, you can proceed with applying the Rain-X Original. This product is designed to treat the glass surface and improve visibility during inclement weather. Take a small, dry, folded cloth and apply a small amount of Rain-X Original to it. Using a firm, circular, and overlapping motion, wipe the product onto the exterior of the camera lens.

Allow the Rain-X Original to dry completely. You may notice a slight haze on the lens. If necessary, reapply the product to ensure complete and uniform coverage. Finally, remove any remaining haze with a dry cloth or by sprinkling water onto the haze and wiping it away with a paper towel.

By following these steps, you can effectively apply a light coating of Rain-X Original to your reverse camera lens, which can help repel water, sleet, and snow, improving your visibility while driving in various weather conditions.

Use a disposable face mask to wipe the camera

One way to clean your car's reverse camera is by using a disposable face mask. This method is both convenient and effective, as it allows you to wipe away any dirt or grime that has accumulated on the camera lens without causing damage. Here are some detailed steps to guide you through the process:

First, locate a used disposable face mask. These masks are typically made from soft, absorbent materials, making them ideal for gentle cleaning. It is important to ensure that the mask is relatively clean before using it on your camera to avoid transferring dirt or oils onto the lens.

Next, gently stretch out the face mask, using your fingers to widen the folds and create a smooth surface. Take care not to tear the mask, as you want to maintain its structural integrity for effective cleaning.

Now, hold the mask by its ear loops and carefully bring it towards the reverse camera. You may need to adjust your position or angle to reach the camera comfortably.

Using gentle pressure, begin wiping the camera lens with the face mask. Make small, circular motions with your hand to ensure that you cover the entire surface of the lens. The soft fabric of the mask will help lift away any dirt or debris without leaving scratches.

After a few wipes, inspect the camera lens to see if it requires further cleaning. If necessary, gently blow on the lens to remove any remaining dust particles or use a clean section of the face mask to continue wiping. It is important to avoid using too much force or applying liquid cleaners, as these can damage the camera.

Once you are satisfied with the cleanliness of the lens, carefully remove any fibres or residue that may have transferred from the face mask. You can use a soft, dry cloth or a gentle blast of compressed air to ensure that the lens is completely clear.

Finally, dispose of the used face mask responsibly, ensuring that it does not litter your car or the surrounding environment.

By following these steps, you can effectively use a disposable face mask to wipe and clean your car's reverse camera, maintaining clear visibility and optimal performance. Remember to inspect your camera lens regularly and repeat this process as needed to ensure safe and confident driving.

Use a high-pressure bottle, filled with washer fluid to clean the camera

Cleaning your car's reverse camera is important to maintain visibility while reversing. One effective method to clean the camera is by using a high-pressure bottle filled with washer fluid. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

Prepare the High-Pressure Bottle:

• Purchase or repurpose a high-pressure bottle or spray bottle. Ensure it has a nozzle that can produce a strong, concentrated stream of fluid.
• Fill the bottle with washer fluid, which is designed to clean car surfaces effectively. You can also use a mixture of soap and water or a specialised car shampoo.

Cleaning the Reverse Camera:

• Park your car in a suitable location, preferably under a shade to avoid direct sunlight.
• Locate the reverse camera, usually found at the rear of the vehicle.
• Adjust the nozzle of the high-pressure bottle to a narrow, focused spray pattern.
• Stand at a comfortable distance from the camera and begin spraying the washer fluid directly onto it. Ensure that you are spraying from top to bottom to prevent dirt from dripping onto already cleaned areas.
• Spray generously, ensuring that the fluid covers the entire camera lens or surface. The pressure of the fluid will help dislodge any stubborn dirt, grime, or debris.
• Allow the fluid to sit on the camera for a few minutes. This will help loosen and dissolve any built-up dirt or contaminants.
• After a few minutes, spray the camera again with fresh washer fluid to rinse away any remaining dirt or soap residue.
• If needed, use a clean, soft microfiber cloth to gently wipe the camera lens, removing any remaining moisture or water spots. Ensure the cloth is free of dirt or grit to avoid scratching the lens.

Additional Tips:

• It is recommended to clean your car, including the reverse camera, every two to four weeks to maintain its condition.
• Always clean your car and its cameras in a shaded area to prevent soap or washer fluid from drying too quickly, which can leave marks or streaks.
• If you have access to one, consider using a pressure washer, which provides even higher pressure for more efficient cleaning.
• Remember to also clean the areas around the reverse camera, such as the rear windshield and nearby lights, for a comprehensive cleaning.

Frequently asked questions