How to Clean A Mirrorless Camera Sensor?

17 minutes read

Cleaning a mirrorless camera sensor can be done by following a few simple steps. First, make sure to turn off the camera and remove the lens. Then, use a blower or compressed air to remove any loose dust or debris from the sensor. Avoid using canned air as it may contain harmful chemicals.


Next, use a sensor cleaning swab or a sensor cleaning brush to gently remove any stubborn dirt or smudges on the sensor. Be sure to use a light touch and avoid applying excessive pressure to prevent damaging the sensor.


If the sensor is still dirty after using a swab or brush, you may need to use a sensor cleaning kit that includes a sensor cleaning solution and sensor cleaning swabs. Follow the instructions carefully when using these products to avoid damaging the sensor.


After cleaning the sensor, attach the lens back onto the camera and take a test shot to ensure that the sensor is clean. If you notice any spots or smudges on the image, repeat the cleaning process until the sensor is completely clean.


It's important to handle the camera sensor with care and caution during the cleaning process to avoid causing any damage. If you're not comfortable cleaning the sensor yourself, it's recommended to take the camera to a professional camera technician for sensor cleaning.

Best Mirrorless Cameras of January 2025

1
Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera: Compact APS-C Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with Real-Time Eye Auto Focus, 4K Video, Flip Screen & 16-50mm Lens - E Mount Compatible - ILCE-6400L/B, Black

Rating is 5 out of 5

Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera: Compact APS-C Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with Real-Time Eye Auto Focus, 4K Video, Flip Screen & 16-50mm Lens - E Mount Compatible - ILCE-6400L/B, Black

  • Enhanced subject capture: wide 425 Phase/ 425 contrast detection points over 84 percent of the sensor
  • Fast and accurate: Up to 11Fps continuous shooting at 24.2 MP raw with crisp, clear natural colors
  • Multiple movie functions: Make time lapse movies or slow/quick motion videos without post processing
2
Sony a7 III (ILCEM3K/B) Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Camera with 28-70mm Lens with 3-Inch LCD, Black

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

Sony a7 III (ILCEM3K/B) Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Camera with 28-70mm Lens with 3-Inch LCD, Black

  • 15-stop dynamic range, 14-bit uncompressed RAW, ISO 50 to 204,800
  • Up to 10fps Silent or Mechanical Shutter with AE/AF tracking
  • 693 phase-detection / 425 contrast AF points w/ 93% image coverage
  • Sensor Type : 35mm full frame (35.6×23.8mm), Exmor R CMOS sensor
3
Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera (Black) w/RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera (Black) w/RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator

  • Compact, lightweight RF mount camera with a 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and DIGIC X processor.
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF II covering up to 100% x 100% area with 651 AF zones with auto subject detection and tracking of people, animals, and vehicles using deep learning technology
  • Continuous shooting with 12 fps with Electronic First Curtain and 15 fps with Electronic Shutter.
4
Sony Alpha ZV-E10 - APS-C Interchangeable Lens Mirrorless Vlog Camera Kit - Black

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

Sony Alpha ZV-E10 - APS-C Interchangeable Lens Mirrorless Vlog Camera Kit - Black

  • Large 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS Sensor and fast BIONZ X processor
  • 4K Movie oversampled from 6k w/ full pixel readout, no pixel binning
  • Product Showcase Setting transitions focus from face to object
5
Panasonic LUMIX G7KS 4K Mirrorless Camera, 16 Megapixel Digital Camera, 14-42 mm Lens Kit, DMC-G7KS

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

Panasonic LUMIX G7KS 4K Mirrorless Camera, 16 Megapixel Digital Camera, 14-42 mm Lens Kit, DMC-G7KS

  • Superb DSLM image quality without the bulk and weight of traditional DSLRs
  • Never miss a photo with three unique 4K ultra HD video pause and save 4K photo modes
  • Unwire your creativity with integrated Wi Fi sharing
6
Nikon Z 30 with Wide-Angle Zoom Lens | Our most compact, lightweight mirrorless stills/video camera with 16-50mm zoom lens | Nikon USA Model

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

Nikon Z 30 with Wide-Angle Zoom Lens | Our most compact, lightweight mirrorless stills/video camera with 16-50mm zoom lens | Nikon USA Model

  • Designed for creators, vloggers and streamers: Nikon's easy to use Z 30 mirrorless 4K camera with a versatile 16-50mm wide-angle zoom lens
  • Easy live streaming: Plug and play webcam operation, smooth Full HD 60p streaming over USB-C, 4K 30p streaming over HDMI and constant power over USB-C
  • A kit that grows with you: Compatible with Nikon's entire line of exceptional NIKKOR Z lenses, from fast primes to macro lenses, so you can expand your capabilities over time
7
Canon EOS R100 RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens Kit, Mirrorless Camera, RF Mount, 24.1 MP, Continuous Shooting, Eye Detection AF, Full HD Video, 4K, Lightweight, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Content Creation

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

Canon EOS R100 RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens Kit, Mirrorless Camera, RF Mount, 24.1 MP, Continuous Shooting, Eye Detection AF, Full HD Video, 4K, Lightweight, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Content Creation

  • Compact, lightweight EOS R series camera with an affordable price
  • Smallest and lightest camera body in the EOS R series1 built for excellent mobility
  • Continuous capture of up to 6.5 shots per second when set to One-Shot AF
8
Fujifilm X-T5 Mirrorless Digital Camera XF16-80mm Lens Kit - Black

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

Fujifilm X-T5 Mirrorless Digital Camera XF16-80mm Lens Kit - Black

  • Offering the ultimate image quality, X-T5 features the class-leading, 40.2-megapixel X-Trans 5 HR CMOS sensor in a compact, lightweight body that maximizes functionality and portability. X-T5’s improved image processing algorithm delivers outstanding results, packed with detail right across the native ISO range, which now extends to ISO 125. The classic X Series design has been retained. Dials predominate, making key functions – including ISO, shutter speed and exposure compensation – quick and easy to set, even with the camera switched off. X-T5 offers a new, 1.84 million dot, three-way tilting LCD and powerful in-body image stabilization.
  • Following in the footsteps of X-H2, find the stunning Pixel Shift Multi-Shot mode in X-T5, delivering detailed files like never before. The feature utilizes the camera’s IBIS system to precisely shift the sensor, automatically recording 20 separate frames with one press of the shutter release. Resulting files are combined using Pixel Shift Combiner software to quadruple the camera’s resolution and produce a detail-rich, 160-megapixel file. Perfect for commercial applications or digital archiving, it’s also ideal for any static subject where image quality is of primary importance.
9
Canon EOS R8 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera (Body Only), RF Mount, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, DIGIC X Image Processor, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Lightweight, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator

Rating is 4.2 out of 5

Canon EOS R8 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera (Body Only), RF Mount, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, DIGIC X Image Processor, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Lightweight, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator

  • Step up to full-frame with Canon’s lightest full-frame RF Mount mirrorless camera featuring a 24.2 million pixel CMOS image sensor and DIGIC X Image Processor.
  • An affordable and compact camera with built-in 0.39” 2.36 million dots OLED EVF up to 120 fps refresh rate and 3.0” 1.62 million dots vari-angle LCD touchscreen.
10
Fujifilm X-T50 Mirrorless Digital Camera XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 R LM WR Lens Kit - Charcoal Silver

Rating is 4.1 out of 5

Fujifilm X-T50 Mirrorless Digital Camera XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 R LM WR Lens Kit - Charcoal Silver

  • Dedicated Film Simulation dial offering fast access to 20 Film Simulations (including REALA ACE mode)
  • 40.2-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor
  • Supports all X Series lenses and includes a 1.4x and 2x Digital Teleconverter
  • 6.2K/30P, 4K/60P, FHD/240P, 4:2:2 10-Bit Video


What should you do if your mirrorless camera sensor is still dirty after cleaning?

If your mirrorless camera sensor is still dirty after cleaning, you may need to try a different cleaning method or seek professional help. Here are some options to consider:

  1. Use a different cleaning tool: If you used a blower or brush to clean the sensor, try using a sensor cleaning swab or sensor cleaning solution. This may be more effective at removing stubborn dirt or dust.
  2. Double-check your cleaning technique: Make sure you are following the recommended steps for cleaning the sensor, as outlined in your camera's manual or by a professional. Ensure that you are working in a clean and dust-free environment to avoid reintroducing dirt onto the sensor.
  3. Consider professional cleaning: If you are not comfortable cleaning the sensor yourself or if the dirt is particularly stubborn, it may be best to take your camera to a professional camera repair shop or service center for a thorough sensor cleaning.
  4. Avoid using canned air or compressed air: While it may be tempting to use canned air or compressed air to blow dust off the sensor, this can actually cause more harm than good by forcing dirt further into the camera or damaging delicate components. Stick to using a camera-specific blower or brush.


Remember, it's important to handle your camera and sensor with care to avoid causing any damage. If in doubt, seek the assistance of a professional to ensure that your camera sensor is properly cleaned without causing any harm.


What is the estimated time needed to clean a mirrorless camera sensor?

The estimated time needed to clean a mirrorless camera sensor is typically around 30 minutes to an hour. This can vary depending on the level of dirt and dust on the sensor and the method used for cleaning. It is important to take your time and be thorough to avoid any damage to the sensor.


How to test if your mirrorless camera sensor is clean after cleaning?

  1. Take a test photo of a blank white wall or piece of paper with a wide aperture and a low ISO setting. This will help to expose any dust or smudges on the sensor.
  2. Review the photo on your camera's LCD screen or transfer it to your computer for closer inspection.
  3. Zoom in on the photo to check for any spots, marks, or smudges on the image. These could indicate that the sensor is still dirty or that your cleaning method was not effective.
  4. If you notice any imperfections in the image, try cleaning the sensor again using a different method or cleaning tool.
  5. Take another test photo and repeat the process until you are satisfied that the sensor is clean and free of debris.
  6. It is also a good idea to periodically check and clean your camera sensor to ensure optimal image quality.


How to buff out minor scratches on a mirrorless camera sensor after cleaning?

If you have minor scratches on your mirrorless camera sensor after cleaning, there are a few steps you can take to try and buff them out:

  1. Use a microfiber cloth: Gently wipe the scratched area with a clean microfiber cloth to see if the scratches are superficial and can be easily removed.
  2. Lens cleaning solution: Apply a small amount of lens cleaning solution to the scratched area and gently buff it with a microfiber cloth. Make sure to use a cleaning solution that is specifically designed for camera lenses and sensors.
  3. Sensor cleaning swabs: If the scratches are still visible, you can try using sensor cleaning swabs specifically designed for camera sensors. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to avoid causing further damage to the sensor.
  4. Professional cleaning: If the scratches are deep or you are unsure about how to safely remove them, it may be best to take your camera to a professional camera repair shop for a sensor cleaning and inspection.


It's important to be very gentle when attempting to buff out scratches on a camera sensor, as excessive pressure or harsh cleaning solutions can cause more harm than good. If in doubt, it's always best to seek professional help to avoid causing further damage to your camera.


How to avoid damaging the mirrorless camera sensor while cleaning?

  1. Turn off the camera: Make sure the camera is turned off before cleaning to prevent any damage to the sensor.
  2. Use a blower or brush: Start by using a blower or brush to gently remove any loose dust or debris from the sensor. Be sure to use a soft brush specifically designed for sensor cleaning to avoid scratching the surface.
  3. Use a sensor cleaning kit: Invest in a sensor cleaning kit that includes sensor swabs and cleaning solution. Follow the instructions provided with the kit to safely and effectively clean the sensor.
  4. Be gentle: When cleaning the sensor, be gentle and avoid applying too much pressure or using abrasive materials. Use a light touch to prevent any damage to the sensor.
  5. Avoid excessive moisture: When using cleaning solution, be careful not to apply too much or allow excess liquid to seep into the camera body. Excessive moisture can damage the sensor and other internal components.
  6. Use a sensor loupe: After cleaning the sensor, use a sensor loupe to check for any remaining dust or smudges. This will help ensure that the sensor is clean and free of any debris.
  7. Have a professional clean the sensor: If you are uncomfortable cleaning the sensor yourself, or if you are unable to remove stubborn debris, consider having a professional clean the sensor for you. This will help to prevent any accidental damage to the sensor.
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