We all live busy lives and it is very easy to forget to properly maintain, care for and clean your glasses.
Your glasses are one of the best investments you can make for your eyes, so below is our simple guide covering the do’s and don’ts when it comes to cleaning your glasses correctly.
How Do You Clean Your Glasses?
- Rinse glasses under lukewarm water.
- Apply a small amount of lotion free washing up liquid
- Gently clean both sides of lenses and frames.
- Rinse thorougly.
- Dry with a clean microfibre cloth.
The Don’ts of Cleaning Your Glasses:
- Do not clean your glasses with your clothing. It may be convenient to remove your glasses, breathe on the lenses and wipe them with your shirt or jumper, but this is not the correct method. Clothing can contain dust and debris that may scratch your lenses and some fabrics have a rough texture that can damage lens coatings.
- Avoid using household or window cleaners. Ammonia-based cleaners may make windows sparkle, but they are not suitable for glasses. These chemicals can damage the protective coatings on your lenses and may also irritate your eyes.
- Never leave your frames unprotected. Glasses purchased from a reputable optician usually come with a protective case. If you are not wearing your glasses, store them in their case to protect them from dust, debris and accidental damage. Avoid placing them loose in handbags or pockets.
- Do not use tissues or paper towels. These products can scratch your lenses, leave lint behind and cause smearing rather than proper cleaning.
The Do’s of Cleaning Your Glasses:
- Use the correct cleaning method. Apply a small drop of lotion-free washing-up liquid to each lens. Using lukewarm running water, gently rub both sides of the lenses and the nose pads. Rinse the frames thoroughly and dry them using a clean microfibre cloth until there are no smudges or streaks.
- Use a lens cleaning spray and microfibre cloth. These are available from most opticians and are ideal when you are short on time. Microfibre cloths trap dirt and moisture within their fibres leaving your lenses clean and streak-free.
- Always store your glasses in a protective case. This helps prevent dust build-up and reduces the risk of scratches or frame damage when your glasses are not in use.
- Use both hands when removing your glasses. This helps prevent frames from becoming misaligned. Avoid touching the lenses directly as your fingers may transfer oils, moisture and dust.
How Often Should You Clean Your Glasses ?
Your glasses should be cleaned regularly to remove dust, fingerprints, oils and other debris that can build up on the lenses throughout the day.
For most people, cleaning your glasses once a day is a good routine, particularly if you wear them regularly. You may need to clean them more often if they become smudged, dirty or exposed to dust, rain or other debris.
Regular cleaning not only helps keep your lenses clear but can also help prevent dirt and oils from building up on the lenses and frames.
Can Water Damage Your Glasses?
Using lukewarm water to clean your glasses should not normally damage your lenses or frames and is an important part of cleaning them properly.
However, you should avoid using hot water as high temperatures may damage some lens coatings or affect certain frame materials. You should also avoid using harsh chemicals, household cleaners or other products that are not designed for glasses.
After washing your glasses, rinse them thoroughly and dry them with a clean microfibre cloth. Do not leave water sitting on your lenses or frames, as this can leave water marks and may cause a build-up of residue.
Using the correct cleaning method and products will help keep your glasses clean and in good condition for longer.
How Do You Keep Your Glasses Clean?
- Clean them regularly
- Keep a microfibre cloth available
- Store them in a case
- Don't put them lens down
- Avoid touching lenses
- Clean the cloth regularly
What Should You Use To Clean Your Glasses?
- Lukewarm water - helps rinse away dust and dirt without exposing your lenses to high temperature.
- Mild, lotion free washing up liquid - small amount can help remove oils and fingerprints from your lenses and frames.
- Glasses or lens cleaning spray - a convenient option for cleaning your glasses, particularly when you are away from home.
- A clean microfibre cloth - designed to remove moisture, fingerprints and smudges without scratching the lenses.
What Should You Avoid When Cleaning Your Glasses?
There are also some products you should avoid using on your glasses, as they can damage the lenses, frames or protective coatings.
- Household or window cleaners – these can contain chemicals that may damage lens coatings.
- Hot water – very hot water can potentially damage some lens coatings and certain frame materials.
- Tissues and paper towels – these can leave fibres behind and may scratch your lenses.
- Clothing – although it may seem convenient, clothing can contain dust and debris that can scratch the lenses.
- Ammonia-based products – these are not designed for use on glasses and can damage protective lens coatings.
- Any cleaning product not designed for glasses – if you are unsure whether a product is suitable, it is better to use a glasses cleaning spray or ask your optician.
Contact us today for all your Home Eyecare needs. With no long waiting times, our home eye tests allow you to book an eye test appointment in the comfort of your own home.
Our highly trained staff are knowledgeable in the maintenance and cleaning of your glasses, so do not hesitate to give us a call.