Here’s how to properly clean your tripod

Tripods are essential tools for many photography genres, but with time, they accumulate dirt, grit, and even rust. This hinders their smooth operation, and it’s really annoying as well. But you don’t have to throw your tripod away and get a new one. In his recent video, Todd Dominey will guide you through the process of cleaning your tripod so it’s as good as new.

To clean your tripod, you’ll need distilled white vinegar, a container for soaking parts, mild dish detergent, a sponge or towel, a small brush (like a firm toothbrush or a dedicated cleaning brush), a degreaser (optional), and white lithium grease or the almighty WD-40.

First, disassemble the tripod by removing the foot from the bottom, unscrewing and removing the individual leg sections, and removing any plastic shims or spacers from the leg ends. Place small parts in a container with distilled white vinegar to soak. This will help remove the grit and even rust, if there is any.

Next, clean the legs and sections by filling a large sink or bathtub with warm water and mild dish detergent. Submerge the legs and sections in soapy water and use a sponge or towel to scrub away dirt and grit. For stubborn dirt, use a small brush to clean the threads and other crevices. If necessary, use a degreaser to remove old grease or lubricant from the threads and turnbuckles. You can go with any household degreaser, and Todd uses this one. Apply the degreaser with a brush and let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse it thoroughly with water.

Once the parts are squeeky clean, lay them out to air dry completely. But we’re not done yet – we need to grease them up again. After the parts are fully dry, apply a thin layer of white lithium grease to the moving parts, such as the threads and turnbuckles. Todd used the WD-40 spray, but it can get a little messy. He ended up spraying it on a rag and rubbing the tripod threads with it. Alternatively, you can use white lithium grease in a tube, it will probably be easier and less messy.

While this process can take quite a bit of your time, Todd suggests you observe it as a “weekend project.” If the rainy days have come in your area as they have here, now can be the perfect time to stay at home and prepare your tripod for new outdoor adventures!

[How to clean a tripod via ISO 1200]

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