We’ve all done it. We take off a pair of glasses that are dirty, blow on them, and then wipe them against whatever clothing we’re wearing. And then we wonder why our glasses are all smudgy.
Don’t put off cleaning your glasses like you probably put off cleaning your house. Keeping glasses clean not only keeps them looking new, it will help you see more clearly. Don’t think of it as a chore, but rather a necessity. First, here are some common mistakes that we’ve probably all made.
1. Clothing isn’t optional. Don’t use clothing to clean your glasses. What you’re wearing carries dust (and other debris from your day) that can scratch the lens. Instead, use a lens cloth.
2. Don’t dry clean. Dry surfaces such as a tissue or paper towel are too rough. Stick to water.
3. The buff bluff. Trying to buff out a scratch? Well, it’s just not possible, so don’t risk scratching your glasses more in the process.
5. Keep it in the pantry. Household cleaning products are meant for the home, not for glasses. They contain ammonia-based chemicals that can break down the protective coating on lenses.
6. Beauty can be a beast. Don’t leave your glasses near hair or beauty products when getting yourself together. Chemicals from hairspray and other beauty products can potentially damage the coating on lenses.
7. Cleaner can be meaner. Eyeglass cleaner can be used for travel, but is not a true substitute for soap and water.
To properly clean your glasses, keep it simple with good ol’ soap and water. Here’s how to wash your eyewear quickly and easily with the help of items already in your home:
1. Begin by placing glasses under warm water, adding a drop of lotion-free dishwashing detergent to the tips of fingers.
2. Lather on the lens, making sure to get both sides. Rub all parts of the frames for a few seconds. Don’t forget to wash off the nose pads and ends of the temples. Continue cleaning where the edge of the lens meets the frame as this is where skin oils and dust can hide.
3. Set glasses aside while you wash your hands to remove excess soap. Washing your own hands is equally as important so that the oils on your fingers aren’t transferred to your eyewear.
4. Rinse by holding glasses under warm water, making sure to turn them to get the top of glasses rinsed too. Repeat the rinsing process multiple times if needed to remove visible film.
5. Shake glasses gently to remove water. Water should roll off the lenses, so there’s no need to overly dry them.
6. Dry with a soft, clean cotton cloth by passing it over the edges. Use a dish towel that has not been laundered with fabric softener or a dryer sheet. A cloth used to dry fine glass wear would be a particularly good choice. A microfiber cloth for glasses can be used to clean up any remaining smudges.
Failing to clean glasses regularly can lead to build-up of oil and dirt. Not only can these films obscure your view, but they can be noticeable by others as well. Clean up your routine by washing glasses every morning and placing them somewhere safe at night. A clean pair of glasses ensures you’re putting your best face forward.
