Sticky Bits

[TimK2015]

Hi Folks

I have a Finepix HS50 which I haven't used for a while. All the rubberised bits on the body have gone sticky. The rubber bits on the lens barrel are OK.

Does anyone have any suggestions as to if/how I can remove the stickiness?

 

[trog]

Yes, just google "rubber has gone sticky" and you will get scores of sites and YouTube vids telling you how to.

Here is just one of the many....................

How To Prevent Rubber From Becoming Sticky & Remove Sticky Rubber - Beyond Photo Tips

Every camera starts to degrade after years of use. Among the many things that happen when cameras are stored away for a long time, is that the camera's rubber

www.beyondphototips.com

 

[Black Hole]

I have a Finepix HS50

Ditto (what an excellent bridge camera – ie fixed lens rather than SLR – the only thing I miss is 'bulb').

I had the same problem, the exterior soft plastics became extremely tacky and the camera was unpleasant to use (despite remaining fully functional).

What worked for me was a liberal application of isopropyl alcohol (order on-line) with cotton swabs (available on the "women's" aisle for make-up removal). It takes some time, and the overall improvement is not immediate, but over 18 months later it is still OK – not "as new", but no longer unpleasant to the touch.

 

[Black Hole]

Here is just one of the many....................

I do not agree with that article implying rubber coatings only go sticky if not used. If they appear not to, it's because continuous use erodes the coating as it degrades.

 

[trog]

I do not agree with that article implying rubber coatings only go sticky if not used. If they appear not to, it's because continuous use erodes the coating as it degrades.

"I have a Finepix HS50 which I haven't used for a while" seems to give weight to the claim, maybe oils from the skin helps to feed the rubber or constant use in some way abrades away the sticky layer as you suggested.

 

[TimK2015]

Thanks for the advice. I'll get some isopropyl and give it a go.

 

[Black Hole]

"I have a Finepix HS50 which I haven't used for a while" seems to give weight to the claim, maybe oils from the skin helps to feed the rubber or constant use in some way abrades away the sticky layer as you suggested.

The soft-touch coatings in my (18 year old) car have gone sticky, that's hardly left in storage! However, it's mainly the less-used buttons that are affected. Unlike leather, I can't imagine skin oils prevent the break-down, so for my money use helps remove the stickiness as it develops before it becomes noticable.

Frankly I would rather not have the soft-touch "luxury" in the first place, if it results in built-in obsolescence.