How to clean your glasses properly
When you invest in a new pair of glasses from an optician or specialist optical shop, you’ll often find that they come in a case that contains a cloth for cleaning. But how many times have you left the cloth in the case and instead cleaned your glasses on your shirt or with a tissue? We’re all guilty of doing this on occasion, but cleaning your specs in this way can cause permanent scratches on the lenses and leave lint deposits. Here, we outline the correct way to clean your glasses.
Washing your glasses
It’s advisable to wash your glasses every day to keep them scratch free and ensure your vision remains clear. When you remove them, you should use both hands in order to avoid smudging the lenses with your fingers.
The first step is to wash your hands. Ensure they’re free from any dirt, hand creams or oils, then dry with a clean, lint-free towel.
Next, rinse your glasses under a light stream of tepid water to remove any dust or lint. Hot water can damage the coatings on the lenses. Apply a small drop of neutral hand soap to each lens and gently rub both sides with your finger and thumb. If your specs have nose pads, do the same here, and wash the bridge, temples and arms to remove any grease, hair products and makeup that may have built up. It’s best to avoid using dishwashing liquid for this, as it contains acidic ingredients.
When you have cleaned the glasses, rinse them again under tepid water. Carefully dry them with a clean microfibre cloth that hasn’t been treated with fabric softener. You can also use a towel, but it must be lint-free.
On the go
When you’re out and about it’s unlikely you’ll have direct access to everything you need to properly wash your glasses. That’s where a specialist non-abrasive cleaning spray can come in handy. Simply spray each side of your lenses and dry with a microfibre cloth to remove dirt or smudges. Don’t use a regular surface spray, as this can damage lens coatings. The cloth provided in your glasses case is perfect for on-the-go cleaning too. It will dry the lenses, pulling away grime and oils. It’s worth washing this cloth frequently - just be sure to avoid using fabric softener when doing so.
Cleaning foggy lenses
If your lenses get foggy when you’re moving between hot and cold environments, or if you’re using a face mask, you can invest in an anti-fog spray or wipes. This can help to minimise the effect, ensuring your vision remains clear as you move around. If cleaning doesn’t seem to prevent fogging, it’s possible your lenses are damaged and you may need to visit the optician. Optical shops can assess your glasses or help you replace them if necessary.
If you’re looking for optical services in London, visit The Eye Establishment in Kensington. We provide comprehensive sight tests and eye health assessments, as well as a selection of fashion eyewear from top global brands. Contact us today to find out more.