Is there any need to clean the optics on CD players and recorders?Potentially, but it's rarely a problem. If you are operating one in a particularly dusty or dirty environment it may be prudent to clean not only the optics, but the mechanical mechanisms as well. However, in normal day to day use you should not need to do this unless you've had a machine in service an unusually long time. At the wavelengths involved a little dust on the lens isn't likely to cause any problems. Due to the way the laser is focused, however, it can cause problems if there is dust on the disc. Keep the discs as clean as you can. Also, you never want to touch any of the optics, as the oil from your hands will cause problems.