How to Clean Glasses

If you wear eyeglasses, it's important to make sure that you keep them clean to extend their lifespan and ensure that you're getting the clear vision that you need. With proper handling and the right care, your eyeglasses should last you for a long time, at least until it's time for a new prescription. Here are some helpful tips for cleaning your glasses so that you can take good care of them for years to come.

Cleaning Your Prescription Glasses

Here are some easy instructions to help you clean your glasses in the best way possible:

Place your glasses under the faucet and run warm water over them gently. Avoid using hot water, since it can damage your lens' coatings.
Use one drop of mild soap and apply it to the tip of your fingers. Never use soap with moisturizers or else it can leave a film on your lenses.
Gently lather the soap on each side of your lenses using your fingers, making sure that you rub the frames and temples and the edges of your lenses.
Put your glasses to the side and wash your hands to remove any excess soap so that the oil from your fingers doesn't get on the lenses of your glasses.
Gently shake the glasses to remove excess water, then rub a clean, soft cloth over them to completely dry them. A microfiber cloth is ideal since it won't scratch the lenses. Never wipe them dry using cloths that have been laundered with dryer sheets or fabric softeners.
If you don't have access to a sink or soap, use special pre-moistened wipes that are made especially for cleaning your eyeglasses.

Things to Avoid When Cleaning Glasses

Here are a few don'ts when it comes to cleaning your glasses properly:

Try not to use your shirt or other clothing to clean your glasses since dust and debris from clothes can create tiny scratches on the lens surface.
Avoid using paper towels or tissues whenever possible. These materials are actually too rough for glasses and can leave small scratches behind. The same applies to dish towels.
Never use cleaning products to clean your lenses. Harsh chemicals and ammonia can cause serious damage and deterioration to the coating on your lenses.
If you notice a scratch on your glasses, don't try to buff it out. Buffing the lens will only make the damage worse. Instead, take your glasses to a local eyewear store or eye doctor where they can make the proper repairs.
Never leave your glasses in the car. Exposure to extreme heat or cold can damage the coating on your lenses and can warp the frame.

Storing Your Glasses

Now that you know how to clean glasses the right way and what to avoid, it's important to know how to store them properly. Place your glasses in their case whenever you're not wearing them to limit the exposure to dust, dirt, and debris. If you're traveling, bring a hard case with you so they don't get "banged up" in your luggage. A microfiber pouch is a good way to store your glasses on regular days when you're simply bringing them to and from work.

How to Clean Glasses