Protecting Camera Lenses: Preventing Fungus Growth

Camera lenses are susceptible to fungus growth, especially in humid environments. To protect your camera equipment from fungus, you can use silica gel, which is a popular and effective solution. Additionally, ensuring your camera bag is made of materials that are less susceptible to fungus growth can help prevent the spread of fungus to your gear. Proper cleaning and storage practices, such as using UV/sunlight, fungicidal pellets, or ammonia, can also reduce the risk of fungus growth.

Store camera gear in dried rice when not in use

Storing your camera gear in dried rice when not in use is a cheap and effective way to protect your equipment from fungus. This method was first mentioned in a 1946 issue of Popular Photography magazine as an alternative to using silica gel.

The rice will absorb any moisture from your camera gear, preventing the growth of fungus. It is important to use dried, uncooked rice and to place your camera and lenses in a container that is big enough for your equipment to be fully covered by the rice.

This method is best used when your camera gear is not in use and will be most effective if you are able to leave your equipment in the rice for an extended period. If you need to use your camera gear regularly, it may be more convenient to store your equipment in a sealed box with silica gel packets, which can be dried out and reused.

It is also important to keep your camera gear as dry as possible when in use, especially if you are in a humid environment. Avoid changing lenses in the rain or heavy fog, and consider using a rain cover for your camera bag and a poncho for yourself to protect your gear from the elements.

Use silica gel

One of the most effective ways to protect your camera lenses from fungus is to use silica gel. Silica gel is a moisture-absorbing chemical that helps keep your lenses dry, preventing the growth of fungus. Here are some tips on how to use silica gel effectively:

• Use sealed lens boxes: Store your camera lenses in sealed lens boxes or containers when not in use. This helps create a dry environment and prevents moisture buildup.
• Indicator silica gel: Look for silica gel with an indicator, such as orange or green, to easily monitor its moisture absorption. Orange indicates that it's actively absorbing moisture, while green means it's saturated and needs to be dried or replaced.
• Regularly replace silica gel: To maintain its effectiveness, regularly replace the silica gel in your lens boxes. If you're in a humid environment, consider using multiple packs of silica gel and swapping them out frequently.
• Dry silica gel in the oven: To reuse silica gel, you can dry it out in the oven. The water absorption capability of silica gel is reversible, so drying it will reactivate its moisture-absorbing properties.
• Use excess silica gel: When in doubt, use more silica gel than you think you need. It's a cost-effective solution compared to the potential damage caused by fungus.
• Light exposure: While silica gel helps control moisture, consider also exposing your lenses to light periodically. Fungi thrive in dark and humid environments, so occasional light exposure can help inhibit their growth.

By following these guidelines and incorporating silica gel into your camera lens storage routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of fungus growth and maintain the longevity of your camera equipment.

Avoid fungus-prone camera bag materials

When selecting a camera bag, it's important to consider the materials used, as some are more prone to fungus than others. Fungi thrive in certain plastics and materials, so it's crucial to choose a bag made from less susceptible materials.

While it's challenging to determine the exact composition of fungus-prone camera bags, it's clear that some materials are more vulnerable than others. By selecting a bag made from materials that are less favourable to fungi, you can significantly reduce the risk of fungus developing and spreading to your camera gear.

It's worth noting that if you place your camera in a bag that already has fungus, there is a high likelihood that it will spread to your equipment. Therefore, regular inspection of your camera bag is essential to ensure it remains fungus-free.

Additionally, consider choosing a camera bag with breathable and moisture-wicking properties. This will help prevent the build-up of condensation and moisture, creating an unfavourable environment for fungus growth.

Look for camera bags made from materials that are known to resist fungus and moisture. While the specific materials may vary, opting for options that prioritise these features will help protect your camera lenses from potential damage caused by fungus.

Clean lenses with light soap, cloth and ammonia

To protect your camera lenses from fungus, cleaning them with light soap, a cloth, and ammonia can be effective. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

Firstly, it's important to note that fungus is relatively easy to clean with just light soap and a cloth. You can also add a very light amount of ammonia to the mix for extra effectiveness. This method has been proven to work, although the fungus may return, especially in tropical environments.

Now, for the step-by-step process:

• Wash your hands with soap, ensuring they are clean before handling your camera lenses. Dry your hands with a towel that won't leave lint or dust on your hands.
• Rinse your camera lenses under lukewarm water. Avoid water that is too hot, as it may damage any specialized coatings on the lenses.
• Place a small drop of light soap or lotion-free dishwashing liquid on each lens. You can also use a lens cleaning spray, but ensure it is safe for lens coatings.
• Gently rub the soap or cleaning solution over both sides of the lenses and the entire frame. Pay close attention to areas that come into contact with your skin, such as the nose pads and temples.
• Rinse the soap off the lenses and frame under running water.
• Dry the lenses and frame with a clean microfiber cloth or a lint-free towel. These types of cloths are important as they won't leave lint or dust residue on your equipment.
• Finally, hold the lenses up to the light to inspect for any remaining smudges or debris. If they are clean, you're done!

Remember to clean your camera lenses regularly, ideally daily, to prevent the buildup of dirt, dust, and fungus. Additionally, always clean your lenses before storing them in a camera bag, as fungi prefer certain plastics and materials, and it can spread from the bag to your equipment.

Use anti-fungal agents

Fungus is a microbial growth that forms on camera lenses, often in humid climates. It can cause permanent damage to lenses, so it is important to take steps to prevent and treat it. One way to do this is by using anti-fungal agents.

One simple anti-fungal agent is a 50/50 mix of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and ammonia (NH3). To apply this mixture, dip a cotton-tipped swab into the liquid and use it to coat the affected area of the lens. Leave the solution for about an hour, reapplying if it dries out, then gently wipe away the excess with lens tissue paper. Finally, leave the lens to air dry for another hour.

Another option is to use fungicidal pellets, which can be placed in cabinets or large devices such as surgical microscopes to prevent the growth of fungus. These pellets can be effective for up to three years.

For active usage, some photographers have reported success with using anti-fungal lotion on the parts around the optics, followed by cleaning the optics themselves. This method may require some experimentation to find a suitable anti-fungal agent that is strong enough to be effective.

It is also possible to use a drying box to prevent fungal growth. This consists of a heater or light bulb that dries out the air inside the box, with openings at the top and bottom to allow for air exchange. Mesh filters placed over the openings will prevent dust from entering the box.

Frequently asked questions