cleaning a lens element

<p>I have a old lens that one of the elements had a haze or a fog on it. It would not come off with lens cleaner. So, I used a mild toothpaste. Cleaned it like new. Thourghly rinsed, dried, wiped with lint-free cloth, assembled, looks good. What are my chances of it staying clear ? Have not tested yet.</p>

<p>It should, but I would have tried alcohol or ordinary dishwashing detergent first before using an abrasive cleaner.</p>

 

<p>Gregory, how old id the lens and how was it stored? The haze or fog might simply be the internal lubricant vaporizing over time and deposited on the lens element; it should stay clear if that's the case. </p>

<p>I tried several methods, this was a last resort. Not sure how it was stored. The element fogged was not exposed to the apature blades nor was it on the outside. Did not seem to be a fungus, more like something dried on the element. Came off very easily.</p>

<p>Fungus can often be cleaned with Pond's cold cream without harming coatings or glass.</p>

<p>here go to this article http://www.photo.net/classic-cameras-forum/00ZX2S</p>

<p>I have heard about the lighter fluid. I will watch my toothpaste results. Hey, I do not have to worry about cavities or sensitivity on my lens !</p>