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If you wear glasses, you know just how frustrating smudges can be. In fact, it can be almost impossible to concentrate on what you're viewing. Also, using inappropriate products to clean your glasses can damage them over time, resulting in higher expenses later.
To maintain the cleanliness of your glasses without causing damage, it's recommended to use solutions that do not contain "alcohol, strong chemicals, perfumes, and fragrances," according to Sheena Taff, an optician and business owner atOptician About TownThe scent is typically a good sign, lens cleaner should not have a strong smell.
For a detailed guide on the optimal method to clean glasses — along with the top products to use — I sought advice from Taff and other professionals in the eyewear industry, which I present below.
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Top items for cleaning eyeglasses
Before diving into the steps, we want to ensure you have the appropriate products to keep your eyeglasses, reading glasses, sunglasses, and other vision aids in excellent condition. In addition to water and mild soap (which is effective for this purpose), there are several simple alternatives available. Below, I have listed several top-reviewed lens cleaners for your consideration.
Koala Eyeglass Lens Cleaning Spray Kit
Koala Eyeglass Lens Cleaning Spray Kit $9.99 atAmazon
If you're looking for a compact and technology-friendly cleaning spray (which effectively cleans camera lenses without causing harm), check out this product from Koala. The formula, free from alcohol and ammonia, combines water-based and plant-derived components to remove smudges and dirt. It also includes a microfiber cloth, so you won't need to use a paper towel that might scratch your lenses.
MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloth $9.98 atAmazon
In addition to glasses, these square microfiber cleaning cloths can be used to clean various screens, such as yourphone, television, laptop, camera or tabletEach one is approximately 6 x 7 inches in size, and they are available in packs of two, six, thirteen, or thirty.
Care Touch Lens Cleaning Wipes
- Care Touch Lens Cleaning Wipes for $12.99 atAmazon
- Care Touch Lens Cleaning Wipes priced at $22.99Walmart
These dampened wipes are ideal for cleaning eyeglasses, particularly those with a lot of dirt, dust, or residue. Each wipe measures 5 x 6 inches, and because the alcohol-based solution dries quickly, they don't create smudges on lenses, as stated by the manufacturer. They are individually packaged, allowing you to carry one with you and clean your glasses anytime, anywhere.
Zeiss Lens Care Pack
Zeiss Lens Cleaning Kit $13.49 atAmazon
This lens-cleaning care kit includes two 8-ounce spray bottles and two microfiber cloths measuring 6 x 7 inches each. It is designed to remove fingerprints, dust, oil, and other residues without causing smudges or scratches on lenses or frames. Similar to other products, it can also be used for cleaning various items with lenses and screens, such as cameras,sunglasses and binoculars.
Eveo Glasses Cleaner Spray
Eveo Lens Cleaning Spray $6.97 atAmazon
This package includes two 4-ounce bottles of cleaning solution and two microfiber wipes measuring 6 x 3 inches. They can be used to clean eyeglasses and sunglasses as well asTV screens, cameras, tablets, phones, and other devices.
How can you tell if your glasses require cleaning?
As it may seem obvious, you should clean your glasses when they are dirty or difficult to see through. That being said, glasses can become dirty to different extents. In general, if you observe any smudge or cloudiness on any part of your lenses, they require a thorough cleaning.
Furthermore, it could be beneficial to experiment with aultrasonic cleanerfor a more comprehensive cleaning of your glasses. "Even glasses that appear clean can release hidden oil and residue when placed in an ultrasonic cleaner," explains Taff.
What are the top items for cleaning eyeglasses?
"The ideal choice is a spray solution designed exclusively for cleaning eyeglasses. These products are typically found in optical shops or other stores that sell glasses," states Joy Harewood-John, associate professor of optometry atSUNY College of OptometryIf that is not present, then regular water can be acceptable.
Another alternative is to apply a mixture of dish soap and water that has been properly diluted. Additionally, a microfiber cloth is typically preferred over a paper towel, as it prevents minor scratches on lenses, as noted by Taff. These items are generally advised against using alcohol-based cleaners, which can remove the lens coating, according to Harewood-John.
How to clean your eyeglasses
Most eyeglass cases include a small microfiber cloth. This is an ideal starting point for cleaning your lenses. Use the cloth to softly remove any smudges. However, persistent streaks and dirt might need a more thorough cleaning process. For the most effective approach, Taff suggests the following steps:
- Step 1: Use a spray, likeZeiss Lens Care Pack or Koala Eye Glass Lens Cleaning Spray Kit, to spray and cover the lenses' surface, then remove any dust or dirt using the provided cloth. Let them dry.
- Step 2:Alternatively, fill a small bowl with warm water to help eliminate any gritty particles that might scratch your lenses. Ensure the water is not too hot. "Exposure to heat and hot water harms glasses and lenses," notes Taff. Add a small drop of dish soap, such asDawn Platinum Powerwash Dish Spray, in the water. Gradually submerge the lens parts of the glasses into the water, moving them to and fro while making sure to grip the ends of the temple arms.
- Step 3:Rinse completely using warm water.
- Step 4:Wipe them dry using a clean microfiber cloth. This step is crucial—avoid paper towels or your clothing, as both may have a coarse texture or dirt that can damage your lenses.
Meet our experts
At NBC Select, we collaborate with professionals who possess in-depth expertise and credibility derived from their specific education and practical experience. Additionally, we guarantee that all expert guidance and suggestions are provided autonomously, free from hidden financial influences.
- Sheena Taffis a vision specialist and entrepreneur atOptician About Town.
- Dr. Joy Harewood-Johnthe head of diversity and an associate clinical professor atSUNY College of Optometry.
Why trust NBC Select?
Bethany Heitmanis a commerce editor at NBC Select and a journalist who frequently reports on beauty, wellness, home, and lifestyle topics. She has written about thebest body wipes, polarized sunglasses and treatments for back painFor this story, she spoke with vision specialists, such as optometrists, about the proper way to clean your glasses.
Cory Fernandezis a commerce editor at NBC Select, focusing on topics related to home, kitchen, and lifestyle. He provided additional reporting for this story.
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