How to Clean Sunglasses: Ultimate Tips and Tricks?

Sunglasses can protect your eyes from UV rays while adding a touch of style to your look. To keep it in top condition, the first priority is to know how to clean sunglasses. Over a period of time, dust, fingerprints and smudges can affect the clarity and performance. Understanding the right technique of how you clean sunglasses the right way, to make sure it is scratch-free, gives clear vision and maintains protective qualities. Proper care of sunglasses includes gentle cleaning and safe storing tips so that the sunglasses remain as good as ever.

Ways to clean sunglasses

Sunglasses go beyond being a stylish accessory as they help maintain a healthy vision. However, without proper care, their lenses might scratch, the frame loses shape and their protective coating deteriorates over time. Knowing how to clean sunglasses correctly and storing them safely makes sure they last longer while keeping the vision clear. If you want to find answers for how do you clean sunglasses without causing damage, follow the steps:

Clean lenses the right way

Always use a microfiber cloth or lens cleaning solution made for eyewear. Don’t use paper towels, tissues or your shirt as the sunglasses become vulnerable to micro-scratches faster. For cleaning, a gentle circular motion removes dust and fingertips effectively without damaging the coating. In case of stubborn stains, wash the lenses under lukewarm water before wiping to prevent scratches from appearing on the surface. Taking a few more seconds to clean them properly can make a huge difference in their longevity and clarity. A good cleaning routine makes the sunglasses ready for outdoor use.

Avoid harsh chemicals

Household cleaners, window sprays and alcohol-based solutions can strip the protective coating present in the lenses. Stick to cleaners made for sunglasses. In case you don’t have a lens cleaner handy, a mild dish soap diluted in water works well for removing oils and grime without harming the surface. A single improper cleaning can leave permanent damage. Gentle cleaning preserves the anti-reflective properties and UV-blocking properties of your sunglasses for the long term.

Store them in a separate case

When not in use, store the sunglasses in a separate hard-shell or padded case. This prevents accidental scratches from keys, coins and other objects in the bag or pocket. A dedicated sunglasses case maintains the frame shape and keeps the dust away from the lenses. Keeping it protected while travelling is as important as cleaning it. Just like you store delicate accessories like an initial necklace or a bar pendant in a jewellery pouch, your sunglasses deserve the same care to prevent damage.

Handle with clean hands

Oils, lotions or dirt from your hands are easily transferable into your lenses and frames, which leads to smudges and gradual wear. Wash and dry your hands before touching sunglasses, especially at the time of adjustment or putting them on. Holding them by the bridge instead of the lenses reduces the risk of leaving fingerprints or bending the frame. This habit prevents the residue buildup that requires frequent deep cleansing. These careful steps make a noticeable difference in the way sunglasses age.

Keep them away from extreme temperatures

Just like a personalised silver bracelet for him retains its shine if taken care of properly, sunglasses too need to be kept in great condition to keep them away from damaging conditions. In case you spend a lot of time outdoors, be careful of placing them on hot surfaces or in direct sunlight for longer durations. Just like a personalised silver bracelet for him maintains its shine when it's cared for properly, sunglasses stay in great condition when kept away from damaging conditions.

Regular inspections and adjustments

Check your sunglasses from time to time for loose screws, bent frames or worn-out nose pads. Tightening screws or replacing small parts on time prevents potential bigger issues. With consistent care, there is a huge possibility to extend its lifespan and get a better vision and comfort.

Mistakes to Avoid While Cleaning Sunglasses

A good pair of sunglasses and knowing how to clean sunglasses the right way, you are all set to keep your sunglasses for men in good condition for years to come. Even when you know the best ways to clean sunglasses, here is what you shouldn’t do.

Skipping a quick rinse before wiping

Dust, sand, or tiny debris on the lenses is like sandpaper. Give the sunglasses a quick rinse with clean, lukewarm water before wiping them. Hence, the answer to “how do you clean sunglasses without scratching them?” is here.

Using the wrong piece of cloth

Your shirt, a tissue or a napkin is soft, but they are not lens-friendly. Keep the sunglasses clean with a microfibre cloth, just like a bracelet for men or customised kada, polished and free of grime.

Cleaning with harmful chemicals

Window cleaner, vinegar and alcohol might work wonders somewhere else, but they are solely responsible for stripping away lens coatings. Alternatively, use a drop of mild dish soap or a lens-safe cleaning solution.

Ignoring the frames

Lens and frames, both equally, need utmost care. Sweat, sunscreen and oils accumulate on the frame, especially around the nose pads and hinges. Focus on these areas and do an occasional deep clean to keep the sunglasses sharp and comfortable.

Overheating the shades

Leaving your sunglasses on a car dashboard or rinsing them under hot water can damage the frames and their coatings.

Trying a DIY technique to fix the scratch

Home remedies for removing scratches are a bad idea. If your sunglasses are scratched, a professional replacement or repair is a safe play.

FAQ

How often should I clean my sunglasses?

It is recommended to clean the sunglasses after every use, especially if you have been outdoors or near a beach. Even a quick rinse and wipe can make the sunglasses look new and your vision clear.

How do I know if my sunglasses need a replacement?

If you notice scratches affecting vision, peeling lens coating or loose hinges, it's a sign that it needs a replacement. Wearing damaged sunglasses compromises UV protection, thus posing a risk to your eyes.

Do sunglasses have an expiry date?

Although sunglasses don’t have an official expiry date, lens coatings and UV protection degrade in a few years. Hence, it is recommended to replace the sunglasses every 2–3 years. Overexposure to sunlight, heat and rough handling acts as a catalyst in the wearing and tearing process.

What features make a pair of sunglasses stand out?

A great pair of sunglasses stands out due to its style, comfort and protection. The main features include premium UV lenses to complete sun protection, scratch-resistant and polarised coatings for better vision and a frame material that is lightweight and durable. Unique design elements, like distinctive shapes, lens colours and personalised engravings, can make it memorable and beautify the appearance.