- 1). Dirt and grit seem to be able to penetrate anywhere, no matter how secure. Just because a lens has been attached to your camera, don't discount bits of crud working their way onto the rear element of the glass.
The last thing in the world you want to do is start wiping, only to grind sand into your glass. Sending your lenses in to Canon to be repaired is a heartbreaking process (ask me how I know).
If there are visible pieces of sand or grit on your lens, use your lens brush (the kind with the small air poofer attached) and GENTLY brush the lens to remove the offending material.
DO NOT USE CANNED AIR! Canned air contains propellants and chemicals that will coat your glass and that are a royal pain to clean off. - 2). With both front and rear lens covers removed, look through your lens while holding it up to a light. Move the lens around to see if you can identify any specific area that looks hazy.
Give a quick breath onto the element you are cleaning and, using small circular motions, clean the glass as if you are cleaning eyeglasses. I prefer to use microfiber cloths for this as they are softer, gentler, and more effective at absorbing and polishing than lens paper. - 3). If your lens haze is persistent, apply a few drops of the methyl alcohol. Do not douse your glass in alcohol; one or two drops will do. Do not use commercial window cleaner or drug store alcohol, as these have other chemicals that will leave a nasty residue.
Using the same motion as before, use the cloth to clean and polish your glass until the glass is dry (methyl alcohol evaporates quickly and should leave no residue). - 4). Once cleaning is done, make sure the front of your lens is covered with either a UV or skylight filter.
These are inexpensive filters and either type will protect the front lens element from dirt and grime and more substantial damage. I've had several accidents that would have cost me a $1,400 lens if not for the $50 UV filter in front.
Not to mention they are much easier to clean.
Check the lens
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