Quick answer
Clean your SquareHood lens hood with a soft, dry microfiber cloth and avoid harsh chemicals. For stubborn dirt, use a barely damp cloth and dry immediately to protect the anodised aluminium finish.
Why the anodised aluminium finish needs special care
SquareHood lens hoods are made from anodised aluminium, which gives them a durable, matte finish that resists glare and matches Fujifilm's aesthetic. However, anodised surfaces can scratch if wiped with abrasive materials or exposed to strong solvents. The same care that protects a camera lens coating also applies here.
The bayonet mount: keep it clean but not lubricated
SquareHood hoods use a bayonet mount that twists and clicks into place. Dirt or grit on the mount can cause a loose fit or scratching over time. Wipe the mount area with a dry cloth only. Do not apply any grease or oil, as that can attract dust and interfere with the click mechanism.
How to clean your SquareHood lens hood
- Remove the hood and cap: Twist the hood counter-clockwise to detach it from the lens. Remove the plastic or rubber cap separately. This gives you full access to all surfaces without risking debris falling onto the lens glass. Common mistake: leaving the cap on while cleaning can trap dirt against the hood and cause micro-scratches.
- Dust off loose particles: Use a blower brush or a clean, dry microfiber cloth to gently remove dust and grit from the hood's interior and exterior. Pay special attention to the bayonet mount ring and the cap's contact edges. Checkpoint: if you see visible grit, do not wipe it — blow it off first to avoid grinding particles into the anodised surface.
- Wipe with a barely damp cloth if needed: For smudges or sticky residue, lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with distilled water (never tap water, alcohol, or cleaners). Wipe the hood gently, then immediately dry it with a separate dry microfiber cloth. Moisture left on the mount can affect the click fit. Common mistake: using household cleaners or lens wipes with alcohol can strip the anodised finish or leave a residue that attracts dust.
- Reattach and test the fit: Once the hood is completely dry, align the bayonet marks and twist clockwise until you hear a firm click. The cap should also click into place without excessive force. If the fit feels loose or gritty, repeat the dusting step on the mount. Checkpoint: a loose click usually means debris on the mount ring, not a worn-out hood.
Products mentioned
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SquareHood Lens Hood for Fujifilm XF 23mm f1.4 R: Made from anodised aluminium, it comes with a sturdy plastic cap that clicks firmly in place. The anodised finish is scratch-prone if cleaned roughly, and the cap's firm click depends on a clean mounting surface.
SquareHood Lens Hood for Fujifilm XF 23mm f1.4 R
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SquareHood Lens Hood for Fujifilm XF 33 / 23mm f1.4 R LM WR: The hoods are anodised aluminium and come with a rubber/plastic cap which firmly clicks into place. The rubber/plastic cap can trap dust; regular gentle cleaning prevents debris from scratching the hood or lens filter.
SquareHood Lens Hood for Fujifilm XF 33 / 23mm f1.4 R LM WR
