White film on my black binocs -- How to Clean? (1 Viewer)

[Lisa T]

I have a lovely pair of waterproof Bushnell binoculars that my father got me 20 years ago (maybe more). He was an avid birder and passed this past year. I pulled out my binocs to go see the spring warblers, in memory of him, and the binocs have this white color all over the outside, which is black. Not entirely, but a lot. I thought perhaps mold, but I looked inside the case, and it's not moldy on the fabric inside. And the lenses are perfect, clear visions thru them. I did store them in my humid, un-temp-regulated basement, in PA for the past few years. Perhaps it's just discoloration of the plastic? Any idea what this could be and how to clean it up? Thanks! Lisa

 

[PeterPS]

I have a lovely pair of waterproof Bushnell binoculars that my father got me 20 years ago (maybe more). He was an avid birder and passed this past year. I pulled out my binocs to go see the spring warblers, in memory of him, and the binocs have this white color all over the outside, which is black. Not entirely, but a lot. I thought perhaps mold, but I looked inside the case, and it's not moldy on the fabric inside. And the lenses are perfect, clear visions thru them. I did store them in my humid, un-temp-regulated basement, in PA for the past few years. Perhaps it's just discoloration of the plastic? Any idea what this could be and how to clean it up? Thanks! Lisa

Hi Lisa,

Welcome to the BF.

Likely the white powder is caused by oxidation of the "rubber" armor of the binos, it's just part of the ageing process on some types of synthetic rubber, nothing serious. Try rubbing with a moistened cloth or Q-tip.

Peter

 

[Maljunulo]

It happened to my Venturer LX.

I didn't try anything but warm water, since I have no clue what the "rubber" armor really is, and I didn't want to do more harm than good with any potential solvents or swelling agents.

I just wrote it off to "patina" and "acquiring character through use".

 

[pete_gamby]

The white substance is zinc stearate - used in the production of the rubber armour to help it come free from the mould. It leeches out over time and dependent on storage conditions e.g. temperature and humidity.

We use a soft, damp cloth with mild detergent to clean this off. Be careful not to use too much water if the binoculars aren't waterproof.

HTH

Cheers, Pete