Stop my gear from smelling?!?

[andrewdt]

I have just purchased a used lens in good nick at a good price (EFS 17-55 F2.8 IS) - am really happy with all aspects except one - the previous owner was a smoker and boy can I smell it when I pull the lens out of the bag now. I cannot seem to get rid of the smell - now I think I may be very sensitive to the smell (now don't torch me here - I am not anti all you smokers, it is just the old, musty second hand smoke that gets me).

I have let it air for a few days, and it is great but the moment I put it back in the bag for a few hours, I smell it straight after I open the zip. Before all my gear starts smelling, is there anything anyone can help me with here? Thanks

[Nicole]

I would've thought of maybe dryer sheets (and being careful not to get any of the stuff that's on them on the glass), but a quick search turned up a few options:

How to get rid of smoke smell on a camera... - Canon Digital Photography Forums
Cigarette smoke odor - how to remove? - PentaxForums.com
Cigarette smoke smell on lens: Canon SLR Lens Talk Forum: Digital Photography Review

Good luck getting rid of the smell!

[OsmosisStudios]

it may some weird, but try placing it out on the counter or a windowsill in the sunshine. Stuff doesnt wonders for smells

I've also had some good results just using dessicant packets (like silica gel that comes in camera bags) and leaving the equipment in an airtight environment. It'll at very least help with the musty.

[andrewdt]

Originally Posted by Nicole

I would've thought of maybe dryer sheets (and being careful not to get any of the stuff that's on them on the glass), but a quick search turned up a few options:

How to get rid of smoke smell on a camera... - Canon Digital Photography Forums
Cigarette smoke odor - how to remove? - PentaxForums.com
Cigarette smoke smell on lens: Canon SLR Lens Talk Forum: Digital Photography Review

Good luck getting rid of the smell!

Thanks Nicole for these - the only problem is that just about every suggestion gets countered! I will go with baby wipes first (I do not have a bag or car that does not have a pack of those suckers readily available...). Will advise.

[kurtwall]

...or you could take up smoking, then you wouldn't mind the smell so much.