Let’s first look at using the SensorSwab as described by Fuji (one of the manufacturers that does provide sensor-swabbing instructions). Fuji says to put a few drops of Eclipse on the end of the SensorSwab. Most instructions recommend 2 or 3 drops—the pad at the end of the SensorSwab should just be moist, not oozing solution. If solution seeps under the filter and gets on the sensor, permanent damage may result. Make sure you don’t touch a moist portion of the pad with your fingers—if you do, the alcohol will transfer finger oils to the sensor. Then touch the SensorSwab to one edge of the sensor as shown in Fig. 5.

 Tilt the SensorSwab slightly in the direction of movement as you slide it from left to right. When you near the right-hand edge of the sensor, the lens mount prevents you from tilting the SensorSwab. As you complete the sweep, just move the SensorSwab until it’s perpendicular to the sensor. Move the SensorSwab slightly past the right-hand edge to get the dust at the end. If you find you’re leaving dust at the right-hand edge, try tilting the SensorSwab slightly to the left as you complete your stroke.

 Since the end of the SensorSwab is moist, dust particles stick to the pad rather than to the sensor. How much pressure should you apply?  Several of the sensor-cleaning sites suggest using normal writing pressure. If you use too much pressure, you could scratch or even crack the filter in front of the sensor.  Insufficient pressure won’t keep the ends of the swab in contact with the filter or may fail to pick up the dust that’s stuck to the sensor. You might start with light pressure and then increase your pressure as you get the feel of swabbing.

 The fast-drying time of the Eclipse means you’ll have to work fairly quickly. If you’re not fast enough, the Eclipse will evaporate from the SensorSwab—and you don’t want to touch the sensor with a dry swab. You might experiment with the evaporation time. Wet the end of a SensorSwab with a couple of drops of Eclipse. Then note how long the SensorSwab stays moist to determine how much time you have.

 Now you can turn the SensorSwab 180° for a second swipe. Repeat the swabbing procedure using the clean edge of the SensorSwab. If you’re using a SensorSwab that matches the width of your sensor, this second swabbing should complete the process. But, if you have to repeat the swabbing, be sure to use a new SensorSwab.

 After your first swabbing experience, you can see one problem in cleaning your sensor—the cramped quarters. There’s not much to the swabbing procedure. But the sensor sits in a cramped area that’s difficult to reach. You can’t just swish the wipe across the sensor. Rather you have to change the angle of the swab to reach the entire area. Even though you’re changing the angle, keep the moist end of the swab in full contact with the sensor filter. And keep the swab nearly perpendicular to the sensor for the full sweep.