Proper Care for Eyeglasses: Tips for Frames and Lenses

Paper Towels? OUCH! No Way

In recent years, eyeglasses have regained style points, even among people who could wear contact lenses instead. In fact, I just bought a pair of glasses last month, hoping to get in on the tail end of the geek chic look. At any rate, anyone who has purchased eyeglasses recently can tell you that they’re quite an investment, especially if you pick a pricier frame and need high-quality lenses (thanks, God, for that severe farsightedness). Given the cost of eyeglasses and the amount of time for which most people keep a prescription pair, it’s important to care for them properly. Here are a few tips on taking care of both the lenses and the frames.

LENSES

Proper Care for Eyeglasses: Use a micro-fiber cloth specifically designed for eyeglasses. When the cloth is not in use, keep it in its casing (most come in a clear plastic sleeve). A cloth that lies out collecting dust will only rub those little particles on your lenses. To care for your lenses with the cloth, you need to care for the cloth too.

Proper Care for Eyeglasses: Soap and warm water makes an effective cleaning duo for eyeglass lenses. The same dish soap you use on drinking glasses will work splendidly on eyeglasses. I recommend Dawn, but that’s not based on anything other than brand loyalty.

Proper Care for Eyeglasses: Instead of soap and water, you can also use a commercial eyeglass lens cleaner. Often, when you get new glasses, the optician will send you home with a complimentary bottle. This liquid is specially formulated for eyeglass care and is different from windex and other, more harsh home cleaners – so don’t substitute.