Fibre Optic Cleaning Guide
Fibre Optic Cleaning Guide
Dirty connectors are one of the most common causes of fibre faults. This guide explains how to clean fibre optic connectors and bare fibre with isopropyl alcohol (IPA), lint-free wipes and one-click cleaning pens – and which products to carry.
The quickest way to equip an engineer is the TED fibre optic cleaning kit: IPA spray, cleaning pens, wipes, swabs and more in one strap bag.
Why Fibre Optic Cleaning Matters
Dust, oils from fingers and residue on a connector end face block and scatter light, causing signal loss and reflections – and contamination can transfer to the mating connector every time it is plugged in.
The rule is simple: inspect, clean, inspect again before every connection, and keep dust caps fitted when connectors are not in use.
Three Ways to Clean Fibre Optic Connectors
Choose the method to suit the job and the level of contamination.
1. Dry clean with a pen
One-click cleaning pens clean end faces and connectors inside adapters in a single push. Fast and ideal for routine cleaning in the field.
2. Wet-dry clean with IPA
Lightly dampen a lint-free wipe with isopropyl alcohol spray, wipe the end face, then finish on a dry area of the wipe so no residue is left.
3. Clean bare fibre
Before splicing, wipe stripped fibre with IPA on a lint-free wipe to remove coating residue. Electro-Wash PX is a fast-drying precision cleaner and degreaser.
Choose a Cleaner by Connector
Match the pen or swab to the ferrule size of the connector.
Fibre Optic Cleaning Products
Start with the complete kit, then restock individual items.
★ TED Fibre Optic Cleaning KitTED Isopropyl Alcohol Spray 200ml
Kimwipes XL Lint-Free Wipes
Sticklers CleanClicker 2.5mm
Electro-Wash PX 200ml
IPA Isopropyl Alcohol 1 Litre
TED LC Cleaning Pen 1.25mm
Sticklers Cleaning Kit (800+)What's in the TED Fibre Optic Cleaning Kit?
The TED fibre optic cleaning kit includes TED isopropyl alcohol spray (200ml), TED cleaning pens for 2.5mm and 1.25mm ferrules, Kimtech dry cleaning wipes (box of 280), a TED IPA dispenser (240ml), TED ferrule cleaning swabs, optical cleaning fluid, a disposable sharps bin and a TED strap bag.
For higher volumes, see the Sticklers standard kit (800+ cleanings) and high-volume kit (2,300+ cleanings).
Fibre Cleaning FAQs
What is the best way to clean fibre optic connectors?
Inspect the end face, then clean it with a one-click cleaning pen or with isopropyl alcohol on a lint-free wipe followed by a dry wipe. Inspect again before connecting.
Can I use isopropyl alcohol to clean fibre optic connectors?
Yes. Isopropyl alcohol is the most widely used solvent for cleaning fibre connectors and bare fibre. It evaporates quickly and leaves no residue. Always finish with a dry, lint-free wipe.
Which cleaning pen do I need for LC connectors?
LC connectors use 1.25mm ferrules, so use the TED cleaning pen for 1.25mm ferrules. SC, ST and FC connectors use 2.5mm ferrules.
Why use lint-free wipes?
Ordinary tissues and cloths leave fibres and dust on the end face. Lint-free wipes such as Kimwipes are designed for clean, residue-free optical cleaning.
Is isopropyl alcohol spray flammable?
Yes. Store and use IPA away from heat and ignition sources. Water-based cleaners such as Polywater AquaKleen are available as an alternative.
Get the TED Fibre Optic Cleaning Kit
Everything needed to clean connectors and fibre in one kit – or talk to our team about supplying your teams.
