Hypo clearing agent

Description

A solution that displaces thiosulphate from the emulsion and the paper base. It shortens the final wash several-fold and makes it far more reliable.

Why it is needed

Residual fixer is the main reason prints yellow over the years. Running water removes it slowly, especially from fibre-based paper where thiosulphate clings in the fibres. Hypo Clear converts it into a form that washes out easily: ten minutes instead of an hour.

How much it saves

Less on film, where washing is quick anyway. On fibre paper the difference is decisive: a reliable wash takes about an hour a sheet without it, roughly a quarter of that with it, and uses less water.

Questions and answers

Can I do without it?

On film and RC paper, yes. On a fibre print meant to last decades, better not.