How to Look After Your Glasses

Even when you buy affordable frames it’s important to look after your prescription glasses. When you don’t take care of your lenses they can become scratched, coatings can peel, and they can become hazy.

How Can I Clean My Glasses Without Damaging Them?

Properly cleaning your glasses is not only essential for maintaining their appearance but also for ensuring optimal clarity and vision. A clean pair of glasses not only enhances your overall look but also helps you see the world clearly. To achieve this, there are several effective methods for cleaning your glasses.

Using a microfibre cloth can gently remove smudges and dirt without scratching the lenses. A dedicated cleaning spray designed for glasses can be incredibly useful in dissolving stubborn residue. Rinsing your glasses with water is a quick and easy method, especially when you're on the go.

Additionally, for those hard-to-reach corners and intricate parts of your frames, cotton buds can be an excellent tool to ensure a thorough cleaning. In this article, we will delve into each of these methods, providing you with the knowledge you need to keep your glasses spotless and crystal clear.

Using a cloth

To maintain the clarity and longevity of your glasses, start by using a clean, soft cloth. This cloth should be free from any abrasive fibres that could potentially scratch the delicate lens surface. It's a good practice to keep a dedicated eyeglass cleaning cloth for this purpose, ensuring it remains free from contaminants that might transfer onto your lenses.

After ensuring your cloth is clean, gently massage the lenses in a circular motion. This action helps distribute the cleaning and moisture evenly while removing smudges and dirt. A handy technique is to breathe slowly over the lens before cleaning. Your breath's moisture can help loosen stubborn particles, making them easier to remove without scratching the lens.

Using a cleaning spray

Consider using a specialised eyeglass cleaning spray to achieve the best results. These sprays are specifically made to clean glasses effectively without causing damage. It's essential to check the label and ensure the cleaning solution is alcohol-free, as alcohol-based solutions can harm lens coatings or frames over time. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific cleaning product you choose.

Using water

In cases where your glasses become exceptionally dirty, rinsing them can be an option. However, exercise caution during this process. Rinse the glasses under a gentle stream of lukewarm water to remove grit and dirt. Use your fingertips to carefully dislodge any particles. Be aware that even tiny specks can potentially scratch the lens, so handle them with care during rinsing.

When rinsing your frames, remember never to use hot water or dishwashing liquid. Hot water can cause structural damage, like warping the frames or affecting the lens coatings. Dishwashing liquid may contain harsh chemicals that can harm your glasses' surfaces. Stick to lukewarm water and mild, eyeglass-specific cleaning solutions to ensure the safety and longevity of your eyewear.

Using cotton buds

To address those hard-to-reach areas, like around the nose pads, cotton buds are your go-to tool. They allow for precise cleaning, enabling you to gently remove any accumulated dirt or debris. By regularly maintaining these areas, you can ensure your glasses remain comfortable and free from grime, contributing to clearer, more pleasant glasses.

What Not to Do When Cleaning Your Glasses

When it comes to preserving the integrity and longevity of your eyeglasses, knowing what not to do during the cleaning process is equally crucial. Avoiding common mistakes can prevent scratches, damage to lens coatings, and other issues that may compromise your vision and the aesthetics of your frames.

Firstly, never touch the lenses with your fingers. Likewise, using a traditional polish on the lens can lead to ineffective cleaning. Refrain from using everyday household products like washing up liquid and opt for specialised lens cleaners.

Ammonia-based and alcohol-containing products should be avoided, as they can damage lens coatings. Regularly checking the screws on your frame can prevent loose or misaligned glasses. Finally, steer clear of using tissues and paper towels. In this article, we'll delve into each of these precautions to guide you in maintaining a top condition for your glasses.

Never Touch the Lenses with your Fingers

It's crucial to refrain from touching the lenses of your glasses with your fingers. The natural oils and residues on your skin can transfer to the lens surface, leading to smudges and diminishing the clarity of your vision. 

This can be particularly problematic because these smudges can be stubborn to remove and may require more aggressive cleaning methods, potentially increasing the risk of scratching your lenses. To maintain pristine and clear eyeglass lenses, always handle them by the frame or the sides.

Never Use a Polish on the Lens

Avoid the use of any type of lens polish on your glasses. Polishing products can contain abrasive materials that have the potential to scratch the lens surface, leading to permanent damage. In an effort to maintain your eyewear in optimal condition, prioritise gentle and appropriate cleaning methods rather than resorting to polishes.

Never Use Washing Up Liquid

Using washing up liquid for cleaning your glasses is not advisable. These detergents often contain harsh chemicals that can break down lens coatings and harm the frame materials. In the long run, this can compromise the clarity and protective properties of your lenses, as well as the structural integrity of the frames. To ensure the longevity and functionality of your glasses, opt for dedicated eyeglass cleaning solutions.

Only Use Special Lens Cleaners

The safest way to clean your eyeglasses is by using specialised lens cleaners. These solutions are formulated specifically for eyeglass cleaning and are designed not to harm the lenses or lens coatings. Their gentle composition ensures that your glasses remain free from scratches, smudges, and other blemishes while maintaining their optical performance.

Never Use Ammonia-based Products or Products Containing Alcohol

Avoid using cleaning products that contain ammonia or alcohol on your glasses. These chemicals can adversely affect the lens coatings and frame materials. Over time, they may lead to lens damage and weaken the structural integrity of your frames. To protect your glasses investment, stick to non-abrasive, alcohol-free, and ammonia-free lens cleaning solutions.

Check the Screws on your Frame

It's a good practice to periodically inspect the screws on your eyeglass frames. Over time, these screws can loosen, potentially causing discomfort or misalignment of the glasses. Before embarking on the cleaning process,check and tighten any loose screws to ensure that your glasses remain in their proper form and function optimally.

Never Use Tissues & Paper Towels

Tissues and paper towels may seem like convenient options for cleaning glasses, but they should be avoided. They often leave behind tiny fibres that can scratch the lens surface, causing damage over time. To maintain a great condition for your frames, always opt for a soft, non-fibrous cloth specifically designed for the cleaning of glasses.

Conclusion

Proper care and maintenance of your glasses are essential not only for maintaining optimal vision but also for extending the life of your frames. By following these tips, you can keep your glasses in excellent condition, ensuring crystal-clear vision and lasting comfort.

Remember, taking a little extra care with your glasses can make a big difference in your daily life. Your glasses are more than just for vision; they're a valuable tool for seeing the world clearly and comfortably, and they deserve the best care you can provide. So, treat your frames with the care they deserve, and they will serve you well for years to come.

Written by: Russell Andrew