How to Clean Your Glasses- and What NOT to Do

Regularly cleaning your glasses is the most effective way to keep them in good condition. If you’re wearing them daily, you know how difficult it is to see through smudges and scratches on your lenses. It’s important to learn how to clean your glasses properly without damaging them- did you know that paper towels and hot water can scratch and irritate your lenses? Here is the best way to clean your glasses- and what to avoid doing:


1) Get a microfiber cloth or a lint-free towel

Microfiber cloths are great for cleaning glasses- the material dries the lenses effectively and also collects oils to prevent smearing. You can get a microfiber cloth online, or come into the Optical Shop and get one. These are made specifically to clean your glasses so we always recommend having a few around. If you don’t have one, you can also use a lint free towel, but do NOT use a paper towel or the edge of your shirt, as these materials can easily scratch your lenses. Also, make sure that you wash your microfiber cloth weekly to keep it clean and working its best. 


2) Use a safe cleaning solution or lukewarm tap water

Next, make sure to use a safe cleaning solution like a mild dish soap or a glasses cleaning spray (we have these available at the Optical Shop as well!). If you don’t have any cleaning solution available, you can use lukewarm tap water (do NOT use hot water as it can damage some lens coatings. We also recommend NOT using any alcohol based cleansers.


3) Gently clean the lenses, rinse thoroughly and dry with the cloth

Gently clean both sides of the lens, and the entire eyeglasses frame for a few seconds. Make sure you clean each part carefully and don’t rub too hard. Then, shake the eyeglasses to remove most of the water and dry with the proper cloth. Inspect the lenses for any remaining streaks or smudges. Then you should be good to go!


If you need a microfiber cloth or glasses cleaning spray, we’ve got everything you need at the Optical Shop! Following these simple tips will keep your glasses scratch free and prolong their longevity, ensuring that you are seeing clearly for years to come.


Contact the Optical Shop at Westport at (203) 222-7870 or OpticalShopofWestport@gmail.com to get your eyeglasses cleaning supplies or to make an appointment.