Most scratched lenses aren't caused by accidents. They're caused by cleaning. A dry shirt corner rubs dust across the lens like fine sandpaper. Here's how opticians clean glasses, and how to keep coated lenses such as anti-glare, blue cut and Crizal looking new.
The right way to clean your glasses
- Rinse first. Hold the glasses under lukewarm (not hot) running water to wash away dust and grit before you touch the lens.
- Use a drop of mild dish soap (one without lotion or moisturiser) on your fingertips, and gently rub both sides of each lens, the nose pads and the frame.
- Rinse again thoroughly.
- Shake off the water and dry with a clean, dry microfibre cloth.
On the go, use a lens-cleaning spray and a microfibre cloth. Spray first, then wipe. Never wipe a dry, dusty lens.
Mistakes that damage lenses
- Shirt, saree, tissue or paper napkin. These trap grit and can leave fine scratches. Tissue paper also leaves lint.
- Hot water, or leaving glasses on a car dashboard in summer. Heat can damage lens coatings and warp frames.
- Household cleaners like glass cleaner, sanitiser, acetone or bleach. They can strip anti-reflective coatings.
- Placing glasses lens-down on a table.
- Taking them off with one hand. Over time this bends the frame out of alignment.
Everyday habits that make glasses last
- Keep them in a hard case when you're not wearing them, not loose in a bag or pocket.
- Wash your microfibre cloth regularly. A dirty cloth just moves grease around.
- If the frame feels loose or sits crooked, get it adjusted rather than living with it. A well-fitted frame is more comfortable and sits the lenses correctly in front of your eyes.
When is it time for new lenses?
If scratches sit in your line of sight, if the coating looks patchy or crazed, or if you notice you're squinting, a new pair of lenses (or an updated eye test) is probably due. Choosing a coated lens like Crizal, which is designed to resist scratches and smudges, can help your next pair stay clear for longer. See our lens comparison for options and prices.
Need a hand? Talk to us
EYVRO is the online brand of Deepak Opticals, Aligarh (opp. Gandhi Eye Hospital, Ramghat Road). If anything on your prescription or frame is unclear, send us a photo on WhatsApp and our opticians will tell you what they see, or visit the store for an eye test and fitting. You can also read our prescription help page or browse eyeglasses and add your prescription at checkout.
