---
title: "Cleaning the NavVis VLX Laser Scanners"
slug: "cleaning-the-laser-scanners"
description: "Learn how to safely clean your laser scanner with microfiber cloths and isopropyl alcohol to avoid damage and maintain optimal performance."
tags: ["Cleaning Precautions", "Laser Scanner Care", "Optical Surface Cleaning"]
updated: 2025-04-15T11:09:32Z
published: 2025-04-15T11:09:32Z
canonical: "knowledge.navvis.com/cleaning-the-laser-scanners"
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://knowledge.navvis.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Cleaning the Laser Scanners

## Procedure

> [!WARNING]
> **Caution: Mechanical and chemical hazard.**
> 
> - Damage to the laser scanner and/or internal electrical components.
> - Only clean if necessary with a clean and dry microfiber cloth. Always wipe the optical surface along its curve, not top-to-bottom.

1. Remove dirt, dust, and water.

If the laser scanner is dusty or dirty use an air blower or soft-bristled brush to remove dust and dirt from the optical surface. If it is wet, gently dry it with a clean and dry microfiber cloth.

![cleaning-the-laser-scanners-image-tqvzeznn](https://cdn.document360.io/bf174766-fa1a-4fe1-a4d7-b1db1e7cb996/Images/Documentation/cleaning-the-laser-scanners-image-tqvzeznn.jpg)
2. Polish the optical surface.

Use a clean and dry microfiber cloth to polish the optical surface. Always wipe the optical surface along its curve, not top-to-bottom.
3. Deep clean if necessary.

If the optical surface is still dirty, put a few drops of isopropyl alcohol on the microfiber cloth and polish the lens again. Do not apply isopropyl alcohol directly onto the optical surface of the laser scanner.

---

## FAQs

****When should I clean the laser scanner?****

Only clean the laser scanner **when necessary**. Avoid excessive cleaning to prevent damage to the sensitive optical components.

****What precautions should I take before cleaning the scanner?****

- Be aware of **mechanical and chemical hazards**.
- Improper cleaning may damage the **laser scanner** or its **internal electrical components**.

****What tools should I use for basic cleaning?****

- A **clean, dry microfiber cloth**
- **Soft-bristled brush** (for removing loose dirt and dust)

****How do I properly polish the optical surface?****

GUse a microfiber cloth and **wipe along the natural curve** of the optical surface—**never top-to-bottom**. This helps protect the lens and maintain optimal performance.

****How do I polish the lens correctly?****

Use a microfiber cloth and **gently wipe in a circular motion**, starting from the center of the lens and moving outward.

****Can I use isopropyl alcohol to clean the scanner?****

Yes, but only for **deep cleaning**:

- Apply **a few drops of isopropyl alcohol** to the **microfiber cloth**,
- Then polish the surface as recommended.
- **Never apply alcohol directly** to the scanner’s optical surface.

****What can happen if I clean it incorrectly?****

Incorrect cleaning methods can:

- **Scratch** or **damage** the optical surface
- Harm the **internal components**
- Lead to **reduced scanning accuracy or hardware failure**

****Can I use other cleaning products or cloth types?****

No. Always use a **soft microfiber cloth** and approved cleaning solutions like **isopropyl alcohol**. Avoid paper towels, tissues, or generic cleaners.