Sunglasses are a part of everyone’s attire during sunny months. Not only do they protect our eyes from sunlight, but at the same time, they are always a fashionable accessory.
Surely, you have at least one pair you adore.
The thing with these is that they get dirty easily. It doesn’t matter if we are talking about dust or nasty fingerprints when you touch the lens accidentally. Even though it seems fairly simple, there is a proper way you should clean them. Why? Well, if you don’t follow some of these tips, the chances are that you will scratch and damage them pretty quickly.
1. Use eyeglass cleaner
Eyeglass cleaner is the main product you should use to clean your sunglasses. Naturally, there are other options as well, but this one is specifically created for this purpose.
Therefore, it will do a great job, and you won’t have to worry about scratches. Well, this is only true if you use a microfiber cloth. All you have to do is spray the cleaner on the lenses and gently wipe the liquid off with the cloth.
The only thing you have to take care of is to ensure that the cloth is fairly clean. After some time, the dust will accumulate on it, and then it won’t be as efficient. Due to this reason, make sure to get a new one every once in a while, depending on how often you wear, that is, clean the glasses. You can purchase these two items in the store where you got the sunglasses. Some manufacturers even offer free samples, so make sure to inquire about that. When on the hunt for the new pair, take your time to explore different models and the deals the stores offer. You can see some of them on otticasm.com.
2. Use water and liquid soap
Many people consider the first tip to be the one you would use on the go, when you are outside, running errands. Yes, this may be true, even though many people use this cleaner exclusively. However, when you run out of it, there is another thing you can do. That’s right. We are talking about the old-fashioned liquid soap.
Now, many people aren’t very convinced this method will work since we are talking about soap. But, trust us. It is the most effective technique you have at your disposal. Get the glasses wet, pour a drop of the soap, and make sure to use the one that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals, and simply wash them. Here comes the tricky part, that is, the mistake most people make. They tend to use the first towel they can grab, but instead, make sure to use the lint-free one. We will discuss why this is important later on.
3. Make your own cleaning product
That’s right. You can make your own cleaning liquid, and all you need is water and vinegar. Pour warm water in a container or a bowl and add two tablespoons of vinegar. Once again, use a microfiber cloth, dip it into this mixture, and clean the glasses. You can use this solution not only for the lenses but the entire frame.
Similarly, you can also go with alcohol. For this technique, you will need a spray bottle, alcohol, liquid soap, and water. Spray the solution on the glasses, and just use the cloth to wipe it off. This is not only efficient, but you have to admit that it is the most cost-effective solution since you probably already have all the necessary ingredients in your home.
4. Don’t use warm breath
Yes, we know this is tempting, and it seems that everyone cleans their glasses this way. However, this is the last thing you should do. First of all, it is not hygienic. Secondly, it is only a temporary solution. Sure, you may manage to clean them a bit, but you won’t remove any dust, oils, and debris. Instead, you will just smear it around. Due to this reason, you should always have a microfiber cloth in your bag or pocket.
5. Don’t use a towel
Do you remember when we said that most people follow the cleaning routine only to destroy it at the final step? You should always use a cloth and never reach for a towel in your bathroom or kitchen, regardless of how tempting it may be.
Why? Well, first, you probably won’t be able to make your glasses sparkle and end up smudging the water on the lenses. In addition, the things contain harsh fibers that will scratch the lenses over time. Naturally, this is the last thing you want to happen to your new favorite accessory.
6. Don’t use harsh cleaners
Another mistake people make is that sometimes they tend to use products that aren’t specifically created for sunglasses. At first, this may seem okay, but the truth is that it will quickly destroy the lenses. This is especially true if the lenses contain additional coats to protect your eyes. If this is the case, don’t forget that you need to take extra care and make sure not to damage the protective coats.
7. Additional tips
Before we conclude this article, here are some additional tips and tricks you should use to protect your new asset. First of all, make sure to store them in a hard case. Yes, nowadays, you can get the leather ones as well, but the hard case will ensure that your sunglasses are always safe. What’s more, you should never put carry them in your bag without a case.
This way, you will increase the chances not only of damage and scratches, but you will probably eventually break them. No one is that careful, so make sure to invest in a high-quality case as soon as you purchase them.
Also, don’t forget about the cloth. As you can see, it is an essential piece of the cleaning routine, and you should always carry it with you. As already mentioned, you have to wash it from time to time. We have already explained the importance of this.