How To Clean Sunglasses Properly

How to clean sunglasses with scratches?

If your sunglasses have scratches on the lenses, cleaning them can be tricky. In most cases, you won’t be able to remove the scratches entirely, but you can minimize their appearance by following these steps:

• Rinse the lenses: Before starting, rinse your sunglasses under a stream of cool water to remove any loose dirt or debris.
• Apply a small amount of toothpaste: Dab a small amount of toothpaste onto the lenses, and use your fingers to rub it in a circular motion, covering the entire lens. This will help to fill in the scratches.
• Rinse with water: Rinse the lenses thoroughly under cool water, and use a soft, clean cloth to dry them. Don’t use hot water, as this can damage the lens coating.

Sunglasses are a must-have accessory for anyone who spends time outside. Not only do they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, but they also help you see better in bright sunlight. However, dirty or scratched sunglasses can make it difficult to see clearly and reduce their effectiveness in protecting your eyes. Here’s a guide on how to clean sunglasses properly, both with and without scratches, as well as tips for cleaning polarized sunglasses and how to clean Maui Jim sunglasses.

Table 1: Recommended materials for cleaning sunglasses

How to clean sunglasses without damaging them

Cleaning your sunglasses without damaging them is essential to ensuring their longevity. Follow these steps to clean your sunglasses safely:

• Use a microfiber cloth: Always use a microfiber cloth to clean your sunglasses. It’s the safest and most effective material to use, as it won’t scratch the lenses.
• Rinse the lenses: Rinse your sunglasses under cool water to remove any loose dirt or debris before wiping them with a cloth.
• Use a mild detergent: If there’s stubborn dirt or grease on your lenses, you can use a mild detergent such as dish soap to clean them. Make sure to rinse the lenses thoroughly with cool water afterward.
• Don’t use paper products: Avoid using paper towels or tissues to clean your sunglasses, as these materials can scratch the lenses.

What are polarized glasses?

Polarized glasses protect your eyes from harmful light that is reflected back at them and make it easier to see in bright places. Using sunglasses with polarized lenses can enhance your vision and help you avoid risky circumstances caused by the sun’s glare.

Polarized sunglasses contain lenses that have been chemically treated to filter light in a particular direction. The coating acts as a filter, allowing light to travel only in the vertical direction while blocking all horizontal light. Light waves will appear horizontal when looking at reflections off of certain glossy or smooth objects. Images and objects viewed using polarized lenses appear darker than they actually are because of the filtering effect. When compared with non-polarized lenses, polarized ones make images and objects appear slightly clearer and features more distinct.

What’s the best way to clean polarized sunglasses?

Polarized sunglasses have a special filter that blocks glare and enhances clarity, making them popular among outdoor enthusiasts and people with sensitive eyes. However, they require gentle cleaning to avoid damaging the polarizing layer or scratching the lenses. Here are the steps to follow on how to clean polarized sunglasses:

Step 1: Rinse your sunglasses under lukewarm water to remove any loose dirt or debris. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause the lenses to warp or crack.

Step 2: Apply a small amount of mild soap or detergent to the lenses and frame. Make sure the soap doesn’t contain harsh chemicals, such as ammonia or bleach, as they can strip the lens coatings and cause discoloration.

Step 3: Gently rub the lenses and frame with a soft, lint-free cloth or a microfiber towel. Avoid using paper towels or rough fabrics, as they can scratch the lenses or leave fibers behind.

Step 4: Rinse your sunglasses thoroughly under lukewarm water to remove all soap residue.

Step 5: Dry your sunglasses with a clean, dry microfiber towel or let them air dry. Avoid using a hairdryer or other heat sources, as they can damage the lenses or warp the frame.

How to clean different types of sunglasses

We will provide you with a guide on how to clean different types of sunglasses, including designer sunglasses, Ray Ban sunglasses, Oakley sunglasses, and Maui Jim sunglasses. Designer sunglasses are often made of high-quality materials that require careful cleaning to avoid damage. Ray Ban sunglasses are popular for their classic style and durability. Oakley sunglasses are designed for outdoor activities and can withstand tough conditions. To keep them in pristine condition, follow these steps on how to clean designer sunglasses

• Rinse the sunglasses under warm water to remove any dirt and debris.
• Apply a small amount of mild dish soap to your fingertips and gently rub the lenses and frames to remove any stubborn dirt and grease.
• Rinse the sunglasses again under warm water to remove any soap residue.
• Gently pat the lenses dry with a soft, clean cloth to avoid scratching them.
• If you have a microfiber cloth, use it to buff the lenses gently to remove any smudges or streaks.

Can I use alcohol wipes on my sunglasses?

Alcohol wipes are convenient for quick cleaning on the go, but they may not be suitable for all types of sunglasses. Alcohol is a powerful solvent that can dissolve certain lens coatings or damage the frame material. Therefore, it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s instructions or consult an optician before using alcohol wipes on your sunglasses.

If your sunglasses have a plastic frame or lenses, it’s best to avoid alcohol wipes altogether. Alcohol can cause the plastic to become brittle or crack, leading to permanent damage. If your sunglasses have a metal or titanium frame, you can use alcohol wipes sparingly, but avoid applying too much pressure or rubbing vigorously. Also, make sure to rinse your sunglasses thoroughly under lukewarm water after using alcohol wipes to remove any residue.

Is it okay to use Windex on sunglasses?

Windex is a common household cleaner that many people use to clean windows, mirrors, and other surfaces. However, it’s not recommended to use Windex on sunglasses, especially if they have a special coating or finish. Windex has ammonia and other chemicals that can damage or change the color of lens coatings.

If you need to remove stubborn stains or fingerprints from your sunglasses, it’s best to use a specialized lens cleaner or a mixture of water and mild soap. Don’t use anything rough or harsh, like bleach or vinegar, because it can scratch or damage the lenses. Also, make sure to rinse your sunglasses thoroughly after cleaning and dry them gently with a soft, lint-free cloth.

Table 2: Do’s and Don’ts of cleaning sunglasses

Tips for Maintaining Your Sunglasses

In addition to regular cleaning, there are some other tips on how to clean Ray Ban sunglasses and maintain your sunglasses:

Storage

Proper storage is also important to protect your sunglasses from scratches and other damage. Always store your sunglasses in a case when not in use. A hard-shell case provides the best protection against scratches and other damage. Avoid leaving your sunglasses in hot cars or other areas where they can be exposed to high temperatures. Heat can cause the lenses to warp or crack. Don’t store your sunglasses in a pocket or purse where they can come into contact with other objects. This can scratch the lenses or cause other damage. If you don’t have a case, wrap your sunglasses in a soft cloth or microfiber cloth to prevent scratches.

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning is essential to maintaining your sunglasses’ clarity and effectiveness. Basic cleaning with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution is sufficient for regular maintenance. The frequency with which you clean your sunglasses depends on how often you use them and the conditions under which they are used. If you wear your sunglasses daily, clean them at least once a week to prevent dirt and oil from building up on the lenses. If you only wear your sunglasses occasionally, clean them after each use to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated.

Conclusion

Cleaning your sunglasses is one of the most important things you can do to keep them clear and make them last longer. Whether you have polarized sunglasses, plastic frames, or metal frames, it’s important to follow the right cleaning techniques even on how to clean Oakley sunglasses to avoid damaging the lenses or the frame. By following these tips, you can keep your sunglasses looking like new and protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and you can also ensure that your sunglasses stay spotless and are ready for your next adventure.