Is it really safe to use cigarette paper to clean lenses and other easily-scratched surfaces?

Question

I was listening to the Digital Photography Tips from the Top Floor podcast #121 (found at http://www.tipsfromthetopfloor.com/2006/05/11/tfttf121-secrets-of-my-camera-bag/ ) and host / photographer Chris Marquardt said he uses cigarette paper as a low-cost alternative for cleaning dust off his lens because it is soft and lint-free. However, on Lifehacker, I read a user response (found at http://lifehacker.com/software/how-to/how-to-clean-an-lcd-monitor-179659.php ) about cleaning LCD screens. He said: "I suggest you do NOT use a paper towel or even soft toilet paper. Paper products contain micro particles of wood and will cause tiny scratches that you may not see, but will be harmful." Would cigarette paper have that same problem? What are some low-cost alternatives if it's not safe to use?

Any background info (about your experience in the area) or sources that would help me understand how I can trust your answer would be very helpful!

Answer 1

The bottom edge of my T-shirt has cleaned $7,000 dollar lenses in the field. I use a lens cloth made for the purpose when I can, but the T-shirt works fine in a pinch.

Answer 2

there is no recourse, unless as a buyer you signed some contract saying the sale was contingent on having never been smoked in. Besides if the smell is that strong, you should have picked up on it during the initial viewing or inspection prior to closing. Honestly, I think you would have been a lot smarter to replace any of the fabrics (carpet, curtains, etc) if it bothers you that much. Contrary to popular belief, the smell doesnt' stick into plaster or wood trim. Cleaning wood trim with oil soap and walls with TSP will remove any odors from the surface stains. You cannot get smoke smell out of carpets or curtains. You can make it fade, but on hot humid days it will come back. The best method for curtains is an ozone closet, carpets are simply replaced. Anytime you buy a used home, you should expect to do a thorough cleaning at your expense.

Answer 3

Apparently some people don't care about their $7000 lenses. Don't use a t-shirt to clean your lenses! There are really inexpensive products made to clean lenses safely and without scratching them. Those tiny scratches will eventually ruin those expensive lenses.

Answer 4

I always heard NEVER use any paper product to clean any lens, as it will eventually score the lens. I ignored this, of course, and used kleenex and ruined a pair of glasses.

I heard using lens cloths and cotton dish towels are best.

However, I recently went to a premier eyeglass shop and they use paperproducts to clean the lens AFTER they rinse the glasses under the tap. They swear that if you get ALL the particles off the glass first, then use a kleenex, it will be fine.

Answer 5

umm. it is not right to clean lenses in cigarette paper,,
buy da appropiate cloth for da lens..

Answer 6

you should find a lens cloth but do NOT use cigarette paper

Answer 7

coffee filters

Answer 8

call the company and see if it is okay check before you try it
thank you

Answer 9

No, toilet paper much better.

Answer 10

... no! ... it's all fun & games till someone gets their eye poked out ... don't do it! ...