Keeping your eyeglasses clean is essential for clear vision and the longevity of your lenses. Whether you wear glasses daily or occasionally, knowing the best way to clean them will prevent scratches, smudges, and damage. Here’s a guide to maintaining your eyewear in pristine condition.
1. Rinse with Lukewarm Water
Start by rinsing your glasses under lukewarm water. This step helps remove dust and debris that could scratch your lenses when you wipe them. Avoid hot water, as it can damage lens coatings.
2. Apply a Mild Dish Soap
Use a drop of mild dish soap on each lens. Gently rub the lenses, nose pads, and frame with your fingers to clean off oils and grime. Dish soap is effective at cutting through grease without harming the lenses.
3. Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse the lenses and frame under lukewarm water again to remove all traces of soap. Ensure that no soap residue remains, as this could cause streaks or smudges.
4. Dry with a Microfiber Cloth
Use a microfiber cloth to dry your glasses. This type of cloth is designed to clean lenses without scratching or leaving lint behind. Avoid using paper towels, tissues, or your shirt, as these materials can scratch the lenses.
5. Inspect and Buff
After drying, inspect your glasses under light to check for any remaining smudges or streaks. If necessary, gently buff the lenses with a clean part of the microfiber cloth.
6. Store Properly
When not wearing your glasses, store them in a protective case to avoid accidental scratches or damage.
What to Avoid
Once you understand the best ways to clean your eyeglasses, it's crucial to avoid some common yet harmful practices.
1. Avoid using your clothing to wipe lenses. Fabrics from shirts or other clothes can scratch your lenses, as they aren’t designed for cleaning eyewear.
2. Steer clear of inappropriate cleaning products. Acetone, alcohol, and household glass cleaners can damage lens coatings. Stick to dishwashing liquid or glasses cleaning solutions.
3. Don't use saliva. Saliva can’t effectively clean lenses and introduces bacteria.
4. Never use paper towels, tissues, toilet paper, or napkins. Despite their softness, these materials can scratch lenses and leave behind fibers.
5. If your lenses are scratched, don’t try to buff them out yourself. This could worsen the damage. Consult an optician for professional help.
6. Ensure any eyeglass cleaner you use is labeled “safe for coated lenses.” Using unapproved cleaners can harm your lenses, especially if they are anti-fog.
By avoiding these practices, you can help maintain the clarity and longevity of your glasses.
