Cleaning Your Eyeglasses the Right Way

Like many people who wear eyeglasses, you might not even realize the common mistakes you’re making when cleaning them. Proper cleaning is an essential aspect of maintaining your eyewear. Our local optometrist at Vienna Eyecare Center guides you on the best eyeglass cleaning practices.

Common Eyeglasses Cleaning Mistakes

Not paying attention to the type of lens that comes with your eyeglasses can result in improper cleaning and damage. Similarly, using cleaning solutions not specifically recommended by your optometrist for eyewear can cause serious harm. Simple actions like wiping your lenses with a rough fabric or paper towel, can result in scratches. Also, a common mistake many eyeglass wearers make is rubbing too hard when cleaning, causing unnecessary strain on the frames.

Steps for Proper Eyeglass Cleaning

Here are tips on how to clean your eyeglasses the right way and ensure they stay clean and last longer.

• Wash Your Hands Properly. Before you begin the cleaning process, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly. You wouldn’t want to transfer dirt or grease from your hands onto your glasses. Use soap and warm water, and ensure your hands are completely dry before picking up your eyeglasses.
• Use Lukewarm Tap Water. Start by rinsing your eyeglasses under lukewarm water. Do not use hot water as it can damage the lens coating. Apply a small drop of lens cleaning solution recommended by your eye doctor to your lenses.
• Clean the Lenses. Ensure you are using a clean microfiber cloth for cleaning the lenses. Avoid using paper towels, tissue, or the hem of your clothing. Gently start wiping with circular motions from the center to the edge of the lens to prevent scratching. Also, don’t forget the corners!
• Wipe the Frame. It’s not just the lenses that need cleaning. Frames can also accumulate oils, dust, and dirt, especially on the nose pads and ear grips. Use your microfiber cloth and cleaning solution to wipe these areas gently. Avoid bending the frames out of shape.
• Clean the Nose Pads and Temple Tips. The nose pads and temple tips of your eyeglasses can build up oils and grime. This can result in discomfort or skin irritation on the bridge of your nose and behind your ears. Ensure they are routinely cleaned for a more comfortable eyewear experience.

Vienna Eyecare Center provides top-notch eye care services to residents of Reston, McLean, and Vienna, VA. Contact us at (703) 938-7633 today for professional advice on how to take care of your eyeglasses or contact lenses. You can also fill out our convenient online form to schedule a prescription appointment.