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How to clean your glasses

How to clean your glasses

Make cleaning your glasses part of your daily routine with this step by step guide.

Published by Direct Sight | After Care Guide

Step 1: Wash your hands

Start your ritual by washing your hands to remove any dirt and natural oils, using lukewarm water with mild dish soap or hand soap.

Step 2: Rinse your glasses

Rinse your glasses under a gentle running tap and make sure the water is not too hot.  Hot water could warp the frame and lenses or damage the lens coating.  Using a small amount of dishwashing liquid on both the front and back sides of the lens rub for a minute, rub over the frame and nose pads too. Make sure to focus on the area where the lens meets the nose bridge of the frame, this is a common area for accumulating sweat and oil.

Rinse the glasses off thoroughly under the running tap.

If you have anti-fog lenses, avoid cleaning with soap and rinsing under running water.  Instead, blow gently on the lenses to remove dust.  Wet the corner of a microfibre cleaning cloth and wipe over both sides of the lens.  Then dry the front and back surface of the lens with the dry part of the microfibre cloth.

Image showing hands cleaining a pair of glasses with a microfibre cleaining cloth

Step 3: Dry your glasses

Using a clean microfibre cloth pat dry the frame and lenses.  Finish by wiping over the lenses. Ta-Da! see the world clearly.

Cleaning tips!

  • Do not clean anti-fog lenses with soap, running water or other chemical.
  • Always clean your glasses when they are wet.  Cleaning a dry lens increases the risk of scratching and smearing oil across the lens.
  • Store glasses out of direct sunlight in a glasses case when you're not using them.
  • Do not use any cleaning products containing alcohol as they can damage the lenses and weaken some frame materials.
  • Only use a glasses cleaner that is marked as safe for coated lenses.\Avoid using paper towel, tissue, clothing, rough fabrics and acetone based products.  Using anything other than a microfiber cleaning cloth can cause abrasions on your lenses.

Cleaning your glasses.

Keeping your glasses clean is essential for clear vision, comfort, and maintaining their longevity. Over time, dirt, smudges, and oils accumulate on your lenses, making it difficult to see clearly and potentially causing scratches.  To avoid damage and ensure the best possible viewing experience, it’s important to clean your glasses properly. In this guide, we’ll show you the best practices for cleaning your glasses, the tools you need, and tips on how to maintain them for the long term. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I clean my glasses properly?

To clean your glasses effectively, start by rinsing them with lukewarm water to remove dust and dirt. Apply a small amount of mild dish soap to the lenses and gently rub them with your fingers. Use a microfibre cloth to dry and polish the lenses, so no streaks or smudges are left behind.

Can I use household cleaning products on my glasses?

We don't recommend household cleaning products like glass cleaners, ammonia or bleach on your glasses. These can damage the lens coating or cause them to become cloudy. Stick to a mild dish soap or lens-specific cleaner.

How do I clean my glasses without scratching them?

To avoid scratching your lenses, always rinse your glasses with water before cleaning them. Never wipe them with a dry cloth when dust or particles are on the lenses, as this can lead to scratches. Use a microfiber cloth to gently clean the lenses.

Can I use a paper towel to clean my glasses?

No, it’s best to avoid using paper towels as they can be abrasive and may scratch the lenses. Instead, use a microfiber cloth, which is specifically designed to clean delicate surfaces without causing damage.

Is it safe to clean my glasses with just water?

Rinsing your glasses with water is a good first step to remove loose dirt and dust, but it’s not enough to clean the lenses fully. Use a mild soap or lens cleaner to break down oils and remove smudges for a thorough clean.

How often should I clean my glasses?

Regular cleaning is essential to maintain clear vision and prolong the life of your eyewear. Use a microfibre cloth daily to remove smudges, and clean your lenses with a proper eyewear cleaning solution weekly to remove deeper grime.  For further information see our guide on how to clean your glasses. 

What's the best way to store my glasses to keep them clean?

Always store your glasses in a protective case when not in use. This helps prevent dust and debris from accumulating and protects them from scratches or accidental damage.

Can I clean my glasses with hot water?

It's best to avoid using hot water as it can damage the lens coatings. Lukewarm or cool water is ideal for cleaning glasses without risking any harm to the lenses or frame.