How to Remove Scratches from Glasses

For many of us, glasses are more than just tools for vision enhancement; they have become an integral part of our lives. They not only reflect our personal style but also affect our day-to-day experiences. However, despite our best efforts, scratches on glasses seem almost inevitable. These annoying blemishes can hinder our sight and detract from the overall look of our eyewear. In this post, I am going to share some effective ways to remove scratches from your glasses, helping to clear your vision and keep your frames looking as good as new.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Understanding the Scratch
• Method 1: Baking Soda Paste
• Method 2: Toothpaste (Non-abrasive, Non-gel)
• Method 3: Car Wax or Furniture Polish
• Prevention Tips
• Conclusion

Understanding the Scratch

Before attempting to fix a scratch on your glasses, the first crucial step is to accurately identify the type of scratch you're dealing with. Scratches can generally be categorized as either superficial or deep. Superficial scratches usually only affect the top layer of the lens and can potentially be remedied with simple at-home techniques. Deep scratches, however, might penetrate into the deeper layers of the lens, in which case home remedies may not be effective and professional assistance or lens replacement might be necessary. Distinguishing the depth of a scratch can be done by carefully examining the lens under good lighting. This step is essential not only in choosing the most appropriate method of repair but also in preventing further damage to the lens during the repair process.

Method 1: Baking Soda Paste

• Required Materials:
  Baking soda and water. These are common household items that are both convenient to use and cost-effective.


• Steps:
  1. In a small bowl, mix equal parts of baking soda and water to form a thick paste.
  2. Apply this paste gently to the scratch using a clean microfiber cloth.
  3. Rub gently in a circular motion for about 10 to 20 seconds.
  4. Finally, rinse the lens with water and dry gently with a lint-free cloth.
  

This method is suitable for minor surface scratches and helps reduce the visibility of the scratches, restoring clarity to the lens.

Method 2: Toothpaste (Non-abrasive, Non-gel)

• Required Materials:
  Use non-abrasive, non-gel toothpaste. This type of toothpaste is gentle and won't cause additional abrasion to the lenses.


• Steps:
  1. Apply a small amount of toothpaste on the scratch.
  2. Gently rub the area in a circular motion for about 10 seconds using a cotton ball or microfiber cloth.
  3. Then rinse the lens with cold water and gently dry with a clean cloth.
  

This method is effective for lighter surface scratches, helping to diminish their visibility and restore smoothness to the lens.

Method 3: Car Wax or Furniture Polish

• Required Materials:
  Car wax or silicone-based furniture polish. Both of these products are typically used to make surfaces smoother and shinier and can be applied to the surface of eyeglass lenses as well.


• Steps:
  1. Apply a small amount of car wax or furniture polish to the scratched area.
  2. Gently buff the area with a clean, soft cloth in a circular motion.
  3. After buffing, clean off the area and check if the scratch has become less noticeable.
  

This method is effective for minor scratches, helping to reduce their visibility and restore a clearer and more lustrous appearance to the lenses.

Prevention Tips

1. Proper use of a glasses case:
   Using an appropriate glasses case is crucial. It helps protect your glasses from dust and scratches when they're not in use. Make sure to gently place your glasses inside the case rather than tossing them around. Periodically clean the glasses case to keep the interior clean.


2. Proper cleaning of glasses:
   Properly Cleaning Your Glasses is essential for maintaining clear vision. Use eyeglass cleaning solution and a soft eyeglass cloth to wipe the lenses, and avoid using clothing or tissues as they can scratch the lenses. Avoid cleaning the lenses with saliva or other liquids as they may contain harmful substances.


3. Careful handling of glasses:
   Handle your glasses with care when putting them on or taking them off. Use both hands to hold the temples (arms) of the glasses instead of touching the lenses. Avoid placing your glasses on surfaces with the lenses facing down, as this can lead to scratches or damage. When not wearing your glasses, store them in a glasses case rather than tossing them in your pocket or bag.

Conclusion

Removing scratches from your glasses is possible, but it requires patience and the right approach. Remember to assess the severity of the scratches before attempting any DIY repairs. For light scratches, these DIY methods can work wonders, restoring your glasses to their former clarity. However, if the scratches are deep or persistent, it's best to seek professional assistance from your local optometrist or eyewear store. With the right care and maintenance, you can keep your glasses in excellent condition and enjoy crisp, clear vision for years to come.