We all know how frustrating it can be trying to see clearly through a smudged pair of glasses; clean lenses can really make a world of difference. While it may not be something that you pay much attention to, the way you clean your lenses can also make a difference, not only for your vision, but for your eyewear as well.
Unfortunately, most eyeglasses owners are guilty of the number one crime when it comes to caring for their eyewear: breathing onto the lens and then wiping the resulting vapor away using the corner of a shirt or garment. Not only is this an inefficient way to remove dirt, it actually can damage your lenses as clothes carry dust, which when wiped onto the surface of your lenses, can result in scratches. Sometimes hard fabrics can also damage lenses.
The easiest way to get rid of dirt and residue on your glasses is simpler than you'd think. Start by running the front and back of the lens under warm water. Next wash the lenses carefully with a mild soap such as dish soap together with warm water. Once that is done, wipe the soap off in a circular motion as you once again rinse the glasses under warm water. Repeat if necessary and then dry your glasses using a soft cotton towel. There are also cleaning solutions that can be purchased to protect the anti-glare and anti-scratch coatings on glasses.
Although tissue, paper towels and napkins are often convenient to use for a quick cleaning, they are not a wise option as they are made up of rough fibers that more often than not leave debris behind. Another common cleaning substance - saliva - is not only unhygienic but also ineffective in properly removing dirt and smudges. Additionally, it is crucial to avoid using ammonia, bleach, vinegar and window cleaner to clean your specs as these substances contain chemicals which can damage the coating on your lenses.
Of course the next time you visit your eye doctor feel free to ask us for one of the microfiber cloths made especially for cleaning eyeglasses, which are helpful for a dry touch up of your glasses during the course of the day. Try to keep the cloth in a contained place away from dirt such as inside your eyeglasses case.
Another cause of dirty glasses is poor alignment - when the skin or eyelashes touch the lens, smudging is a never-ending problem. You can return to the eye doctor and ask the optician if it is possible to adjust the glasses for optimal alignment of the glasses. Be careful when you first purchase eyewear that the frame fits well so you can avoid this problem.
Get the most out of your eyewear. Keep your lenses clean and clear so you can see your best.
Dr. John is a 2020 graduate of The Ohio State University with a major in microbiology and received his Doctor of Optometry degree with honors from The Ohio State University in 2024. While in optometry school, Dr. John completed his ocular disease rotation at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center where he saw and managed glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and optic neuropathies. He also enjoyed his time in the Binocular Vision/Pediatric clinic and Contact Lens clinic fitting all types of soft and specialty contact lenses. He is now a member of the Ohio Optometric Association and the American Optometric Association. Dr. John grew up in Lancaster, Ohio where he enjoyed competing in sports and spending time outdoors. He is excited to begin his career in optometry and join the Chester Eye Center team.