How to Clean Your Glasses Without Scratching Them
Most scratches come from cleaning the wrong way. Two minutes and the right steps keep your lenses clear for longer.
Step by step
- Rinse under lukewarm water to remove dust.
- Put a small drop of mild dish soap (without lotion) on your fingertips and rub both sides of the lenses and the frame.
- Rinse well.
- Shake off the water and dry gently with a clean microfiber cloth.
Avoid
Paper towels, napkins and your shirt (they scratch), household glass cleaners, ammonia or acetone (they damage coatings), and hot water.
Wash the microfiber cloth
A dirty cloth spreads oil and dust. Wash it regularly without fabric softener.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use alcohol wipes?
Lens-specific wipes are fine occasionally. For daily cleaning, water, mild soap and microfiber are best.
How often should I clean my glasses?
A quick clean daily, and a wash with soap whenever they look greasy.
Related guides
This guide is for information only and does not replace an eye exam. If you have eye pain, sudden vision loss or flashes of light, see a doctor right away.