Taking care of your eyeglasses is crucial for maintaining clear vision and preventing scratches on your lenses. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the proper steps to clean your glasses, highlight what not to do, and provide tips on professional eyeglass cleaning and storage.
1. Start with Clean Hands:
Before you even think about cleaning your glasses, make sure your hands are clean. Wash them thoroughly with a lotion-free soap or dishwashing liquid and dry them with a clean, lint-free towel. This prevents transferring oils and dirt from your hands to your lenses.
2. Rinse with Care:
Rinse your glasses under a gentle stream of tap water to remove dust and debris. Avoid hot water, as it may damage lens coatings. This step is essential to prevent scratching your lenses during the cleaning process.
3. Use the Right Cleaning Solution:
Apply a small drop of lotion-free dishwashing liquid to each lens. Gently rub both sides of the lenses and all parts of the frame, including nose pads and temples. Make sure to use only lotion-free brands to avoid residue buildup.
4. Rinse Thoroughly:
Rinse both sides of the lenses and the frame to remove all traces of soap, which can cause smearing during the drying process.
5. Shake and Dry:
Gently shake your glasses to remove excess water and inspect the lenses for cleanliness. Carefully dry the lenses and frame with a clean, lint-free towel or a microfiber cloth.
6. Inspect and Touch-Up:
Inspect the lenses for any streaks or smudges. If needed, use a clean microfiber cloth or disposable lens cleaning wipes for touch-up cleaning.
What Not to Do:
- Don’t use your shirttail or clothing to clean dry lenses.
- Avoid using saliva or household glass cleaners on your glasses.
- Say no to paper towels, napkins, tissues, or toilet paper, as these can scratch or smear your lenses.
Eyeglass Cleaners and Cleaning Cloths:
- Spray eyeglass lens cleaners are convenient, especially when traveling.
- Ensure the cleaner is approved for use on anti-reflective lenses if you have this coating.
- Microfiber cleaning cloths are ideal for effective and smear-free cleaning. Clean them frequently with lotion-free dishwashing liquid and water.
Dealing with Scratches:
Unfortunately, there’s no magic cure for scratched lenses. Some products may reduce visibility, but they often wear off easily. Opt for scratch-resistant coatings when purchasing lenses and inquire about anti-scratch warranties.
Professional Eyeglass Cleaning:
If your lenses are in good shape but other parts of your glasses need attention, visit your eye care professional. They may use an ultrasonic cleaning device to deep-clean your glasses and can replace worn-out parts.
Storage Matters:
Always store your glasses in a clean case, and never place them on a surface with the lenses facing down. If a case isn’t available, store them upside down with the temples open in a safe location.
Taking the time to clean and care for your glasses properly can significantly extend their lifespan. Following these guidelines ensures that your vision stays clear, your glasses remain scratch-free, and you get the most out of your eyewear investment. If you ever have concerns about your lenses or frames, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (573) 446-1600 and talk with one of our eye care professionals.
