How do I clean the external forward-facing glass on my lens?

Question

How do I clean the external forward-facing glass on my lens?

Over the last year or so of use it has accumulated a little dust and a translucent smear mark. Nothing serious, but I'd like to remove them nevertheless. The lens in question is a Sigma AF 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC HSM OS and has a flat external forward-facing glass element (e.g. see here).

I've never cleaned any camera equipment before, so pitch this to a novice audience please.

Asked by fmark

Answer

Assuming you're just talking about the front element - I use these disposable Zeiss wipes. They do better than a lens pen (which handles dust ok, but doesn't do smudges nearly as well) and a box of 200 will last a long, long time with hobby level use. My local Walmart sells the box of 200 for under 4 dollars in the camera and the optometrist section. They won't harm the coatings on the element and do an excellent job.

Answered by rfusca

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