How to Properly Clean and Maintain Your Eyeglasses

With the increasing use of digital devices, the pressure on our eyes has grown significantly. Whether for the elderly, middle-aged, or children, eyeglasses have become an essential part of daily life, offering clearer vision. However, over time, the lenses of our glasses accumulate dust and grease. These particles settle in the corners of the lenses, between the frame and lens, around the nose pads, and at the hinge areas. This build-up can blur our vision, leading to the need for proper cleaning. Incorrect cleaning methods can shorten the lifespan of your glasses. So, how can you clean your eyeglasses correctly?

1. Avoid Using Glasses Cloth for Cleaning

Eyeglass cloths are typically provided as free gifts at eyewear stores along with your glasses case. Since they are promotional items, they are often made from low-cost, generic materials, which might not be suitable for cleaning your lenses effectively. Why did glasses cloths work fine in the past? This was because, around a decade ago, most eyeglass lenses were made of glass, which is much harder and less prone to scratching. However, today’s lenses are mostly made from resin, which is softer and more prone to scratching, especially when cleaned with low-quality cloths. Moreover, dust particles, particularly in today’s polluted environment, are often suspended in the air and, when rubbed on the lens, can scratch its surface. If the lens material is high quality, using a better quality cloth may still work for cleaning.

2. Clean With Cold Water

Rinse your glasses under tap water. Hold the frame by the edges or the bridge and gently rub both sides of the lenses with your thumb and index finger, using a mild soap or dishwashing detergent. Make sure to clean both sides of the lenses gently, as too much pressure may cause scratches, especially if there are any remaining coarse particles on your hands or lenses. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry the glasses with a cotton towel or a clean tissue. For lighter dirt or when it’s inconvenient to wash, use a dedicated microfiber cleaning cloth or lens paper to gently wipe the lenses. Regular maintenance will help keep the lenses in good condition and protect your eyes.

3. Use Eyeglass Cleaning Spray

You can purchase specialized eyeglass cleaning sprays and microfiber cleaning cloths from optical stores. This method is ideal for removing light smudges or fingerprints, and it helps prevent oil from your face and other substances from accumulating on the lenses.

4. Ultrasonic Cleaning

You can take your glasses to a professional optical store that offers ultrasonic cleaning. Using ultrasonic waves, this method can effectively remove stubborn dirt that is difficult to clean with water. If you prefer, you can also invest in your own ultrasonic cleaning machine for convenience.

Conclusion

By following these cleaning and maintenance methods, you can prevent lens coating scratches caused by improper wiping or handling, which would affect the longevity of your glasses. Eyeglasses are one of the most essential items for people with poor vision, so it’s important to regularly care for and maintain them to ensure that your eyes are always well-protected.