Cleaning eyeglasses effectively helps maintain clear vision and prolongs the lifespan of the lenses. Many people wonder if water alone is sufficient for this task, a common question given its accessibility. This article aims to provide clear, practical guidance on using water and other recommended methods to clean eyeglasses safely and thoroughly. Understanding the proper techniques can prevent damage and ensure your lenses remain in optimal condition for seeing clearly.
The Basics of Cleaning with Water
Water can be a useful first step in cleaning eyeglasses, primarily for rinsing away loose dust and debris from the lens surface and frame. Running your glasses under a gentle stream of lukewarm tap water helps dislodge these particles, which might otherwise scratch the lenses if wiped dry. It is important to avoid hot water, as it can potentially damage specialized coatings on lenses. If your tap water is particularly hard, containing high mineral content, using distilled water can prevent mineral deposits or microscopic damage to the lenses over time.
While water is excellent for initial rinsing, it is often insufficient for removing oily smudges, fingerprints, or grease that commonly accumulate on lenses. Water alone tends to spread these residues rather than effectively lift them. For a more thorough clean that addresses such persistent marks, additional cleaning aids are generally recommended after the initial rinse.
Beyond Water: Recommended Cleaning Aids
For a comprehensive clean that removes stubborn smudges and oils, mild, lotion-free dish soap is widely recommended. This type of soap effectively cuts through grease without introducing new oils or residues to the lenses. To use, after rinsing your glasses under lukewarm water, apply a small drop of lotion-free dish soap to each lens. Gently rub both sides of the lenses and the entire frame, including the nose pads and earpieces, with your fingertips for a few seconds.
After applying the soap, rinse the glasses thoroughly under running lukewarm water to ensure all soap residue is removed. Leftover soap can lead to streaks or attract more dirt. As an alternative, specialized lens cleaning sprays designed for eyeglasses are also effective and convenient, particularly those labeled as safe for anti-reflective coatings. These sprays are formulated to break down grease and smudges, providing a clear finish.
What to Avoid
Certain materials and cleaning agents can damage eyeglass lenses and their protective coatings. Never use paper towels, tissues, toilet paper, or napkins; these materials, despite feeling soft, are abrasive. Their wood pulp fibers create micro-scratches and leave lint. Avoid using clothing, like shirt tails, as fabric fibers can scratch and transfer dirt or oils.
Harsh cleaning chemicals are detrimental to eyeglass lenses and frames. Avoid using window cleaners, ammonia-based solutions, alcohol, acetone (found in nail polish remover), or vinegar. These substances can strip or degrade specialized lens coatings, like anti-reflective layers, and may damage lens material, especially polycarbonate. Using saliva is unhygienic and ineffective, introducing germs and causing smudges.
Drying Your Lenses Correctly
After rinsing, correct drying prevents streaks and damage. A clean microfiber cloth, designed for eyewear, is the most effective drying tool. Made from ultra-fine synthetic fibers, these cloths trap dirt, dust, and oils without scratching delicate lens surfaces. Microfiber technology cleans by physically trapping particles and electrical attraction.
Gently shake glasses to remove excess water before using the microfiber cloth. Then, lightly pat or wipe lenses with the clean microfiber cloth. Avoid harsh rubbing; abrasive particles can still cause scratches. Unlike paper or other fabrics, microfiber cloths provide a streak-free finish and are highly absorbent. To maintain effectiveness, regularly wash microfiber cloths with liquid soap and water, avoiding fabric softeners that can leave residue.