There is nothing worse than a dirty spot on your glasses – well, except perhaps many dirty spots or smudges. When that happens, most of us are tempted to grab the corner of our shirt and wipe it off but resist the temptation – this is actually not a good idea.
There is a right way and a wrong way to clean your glasses. Cleaning your glasses properly will remove irritating dirt and smudges and prevent your lenses from getting scratched, allowing you to see your best.
You want to ensure that the materials you use to clean your lenses are clean and soft. The reason your shirt corner is not the best option is that it likely contains dust or particles that can scratch your lens. However, you don’t need fancy lens cleaners, either. In truth, the best cleaner for your glasses may be more simple than you expect –
Gentle Dish Soap
That’s right, a gentle dish soap, warm water, and a clean, dry, soft cotton towel are the best tools you can have for cleaning your lenses.
Simply rinse your glasses in warm water and apply a small drop of soap (make sure to use a lotion and moisturizer-free brand). Rub the soap into the lens with your fingers and rinse thoroughly until all of the soap has been removed. Gently shake the glasses to remove excess water and then dry with a clean, lint-free towel.
You may be wondering about the microfiber lens cloths and spray cleaner you get from your optician. These lens cleaning packs are great for when you are on the go and don’t have access to a sink and dish soap. The microfiber cloths are also great for polishing dry lenses after dust or particles are blown away- just ensure they are cleaned regularly. However, we advise using the above technique for a natural, thorough clean.
Cleaning Don’ts
Don’t use vinegar, glass or window cleaner, bleach, ammonia, or spit/saliva for cleaning your lenses. The chemicals could strip off the coatings on your lenses and saliva – well, it just doesn’t work. In particular, many lenses these days have anti-glare treatments that are especially prone to damage if not cleaned properly and are particularly vulnerable to window cleaners and alcohol.
Remember, once your glasses are scratched, there is little to do to repair them. If you see something on your lens try to blow or brush it away carefully before you use a cloth to clean your lenses.
Keeping Your Lenses Clean
To avoid dirt and smudges, always take your glasses off with two hands using the arms of the frame and avoid touching the lenses. Further, the best way to preserve your glasses and keep them clean is to keep them in a case when they are not in use. It’s worthwhile to get an extra case or two to have on hand in the car or in your purse when you need to take your glasses off. If you notice swirled or circular scratches on your lenses, those are almost always from improper cleaning so make sure to take the time to clean them properly the next time.
When it comes to keeping your glasses clean and in optimal condition, Westpoint Opticals is your trusted ally. With a commitment to preserving the longevity and clarity of your eyewear, Westpoint Opticals not only provides top-notch eye care services but also offers expert guidance on the proper maintenance of your glasses.
Our knowledgeable staff can advise you on the best practices for cleaning your lenses and help you select the right lens cleaning products if needed. We understand the importance of maintaining your eyewear, and our mission is to ensure that your glasses continue to provide you with the best vision. Choose Westpoint Opticals for all your eyewear needs, and let us be your partner in clear and clean vision.