You should ALWAYS use what to clean smudges from your camera lens?

Using a soft cloth to clean smudges from your camera lens is essential because it is less likely to scratch the delicate surface of the lens compared to other materials. Soft fabrics, specifically those designed for optical cleaning, are gentle enough to remove dirt and fingerprints without causing damage.

A microfiber towel, while an excellent choice for lens cleaning due to its ability to trap dust and absorb oils without leaving lint behind, is specifically made for this purpose and is often the optimal recommendation for cleaning lenses. The choice of a soft cloth is valid in that it emphasizes the importance of using non-abrasive materials to protect the lens coating and ensure clarity in your photographs.