CD lens cleaning-how often and what method works best?

How often: the least possible. Only clean when the player have problems reading CD.

How:
Use a Qtip and lens liquid cleaner. You can buy it at an optician or a photo shop. Don't use alcool.
VERY gently clean the lens, don't press it and absorb remaining liquid with the other tip of the Qtip.

Your Qtip must of course be perfectly clean. Don't use the one in the glass on the bathroom shelf. Buy a new box and keep them in a sealed bag.
When i say Qtip, i mean it. Don't use fancy, colored or other ones. Plastic ones are better IMO.

If the player environment is dursty, use your LP brush (Decca style) on the lens

Emmanuel

I've never had to clean the lens of any of my CD players, and any problems I've had with Naim CD players not accessing tracks has just required a clean of the puck or the transport.

David