The sunglasses are an essential accessory, but to keep them functional and looking good, it’s necessary to keep them clean. If you’re wondering how to clean sunglasses, this article will give you the best guidelines to do it properly and ensure your sunglasses stay in perfect condition for a long time.
Keeping your sunglasses clean not only improves their appearance, but also ensures the lenses offer a clear, distortion-free view.
Why is it important to clean sunglasses?
It’s important to clean your sunglasses regularly, as the lenses can accumulate dust, oil, and fingerprints. This not only affects aesthetics, but can also hinder your vision and reduce the UV protection they provide.
Additionally, if you clean them incorrectly, you could scratch the lenses or damage the protective coating.
How to clean sunglasses properly
Now that you know how important it is to keep your sunglasses clean, here are the steps to do it correctly.
1. Use a microfiber cloth
The first step to cleaning sunglasses is to use a microfiber cloth. This type of fabric is soft and won’t scratch the lenses. Make sure the cloth is clean before using it, as dust or dirt could scratch the lenses.
-
Avoid using clothing, napkins, or paper towels, as these materials can damage the lenses.
-
Clean with gentle, circular motions without pressing too hard.
2. Rinse your sunglasses with lukewarm water
If the glasses are very dirty or have built-up grease, it’s recommended to rinse them before using the cloth. Rinse your sunglasses under lukewarm water to remove dust and dirt. Avoid using hot water, as it can affect the lens coating.
-
Never use cold water, as it may cause oil or dirt to adhere even more to the lenses.
3. Use mild soap
If the lenses have stains or grease, you can apply a small amount of mild soap or dishwashing detergent. Make sure the soap is fragrance- and dye-free, as these products can leave residue on the lenses.
-
Apply a small drop of soap to each lens and gently rub with your fingers.
-
Rinse well to make sure no soap residue remains.
4. Dry them properly
After rinsing the sunglasses, dry them with a clean microfiber cloth. Do not use paper towels or napkins, as they can leave lint on the lenses.
-
Avoid rubbing the lenses hard while drying, as this could damage them.
5. Deep cleaning (optional)
If you want to give your sunglasses a deeper clean, you can opt for a specialized cleaner for eyeglass lenses. There are products formulated to remove tough marks, such as fingerprints or grease. Apply the cleaner directly to the lenses and wipe it with a microfiber cloth.
What to avoid when cleaning your sunglasses
When it comes to cleaning sunglasses, there are some habits you should avoid to keep them from getting damaged:
-
Do not use harsh household cleaners: Products like alcohol or glass cleaners can damage the lens coating.
-
Avoid cleaning the lenses with clothing: Although it might seem convenient, fabrics can contain particles that scratch the lenses.
-
Do not leave them in hot places: Avoid leaving your glasses in the sun or in very hot places, such as inside a car. Heat can damage the lenses and the frame.
How to keep your sunglasses in good condition
In addition to cleaning them properly, it’s important to take good care of your sunglasses so they last longer:
-
Store the glasses in their case when you’re not using them to protect them from scratches.
-
Clean your sunglasses regularly, even if they don’t look dirty, to prevent dirt from building up.
-
Avoid touching them with your fingers on the front of the lenses, as fingerprints are difficult to remove without proper cleaning.
