I clean my sensors regularly,
and those of a few of my competitors. That's why their always artworking out dots. LOL.*
Seriously, it's easier and safer than you think.
Here's the steps for Canon EOS:
Start with your camera either plugged in, or on a full battery charge. This is critical.
Use the Sensor Swabs from Photographic Solutions 508-759-2322 (about $6 each).
Use Eclipse optic cleaning fluid, also from Photograpic Solutions. (about $12 for 2 fluid ounces).
www.photosol.com
*Take a photograph of clear blue sky, no clouds. Expose normally, aperture selection does not matter. This will show you
* * *EXACTLY where your spots are on your sensor.
*Remove lens
*In the menu, select "sensor cleaning", click OK
*In the following dialog, you'll get the statement "turn off camera after sensor cleaning", click OK
*The mirror will lock up, shutter will open esposing the sensor.
*Use the swap with 4 or 5 drops of sesor cleaning fluid to wipe horizontally across the sensor several times in one direction.
*Don't expect to get everything on the first try.
*When your done, turn camera off to unlock the shutter and mirror.
Take another photograph of clear blue sky and repeat the steps until you get it all.