The lenses of your glasses can become opaque due to dirt or damage that reduces their transparency, almost preventing you from seeing. While there isn't much you can do to fix scratched lenses, there are "tricks" for cleaning them efficiently without damaging them. With the right materials at your fingertips and some knowledge of proper cleaning techniques, you will soon be able to see the blue sky again where there were only opaque lenses before.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Cleaning the Opaque Lenses
Step 1. Get a clean, soft cloth
In most cases, a microfiber cloth for cleaning the lenses is also delivered with the purchase of glasses from an optician. This fabric is perfect for removing dullness and stains.
- If you have lost the cloth or do not remember where you put it, get a soft, clean cloth instead; cotton should be fine as long as it is clean.
- Avoid using rough fabrics, such as wool and certain synthetics, facial tissue or toilet paper, as they cause fine scratches over time.
Step 2. Use an eyeglass cleaner
This type of solution is specially prepared to dissolve dirt without damaging the lenses or surface treatments that may have been applied. Spray a moderate amount of liquid on the lenses and wipe them with the soft, clean cloth.
Do not use saliva, as it does not clean very well and is not a hygienically adequate solution
Step 3. Use dish soap and warm water
If you don't have the detergent on hand, you can use a drop of dish soap and warm water to loosen the dirt and restore your glasses to their perfect condition. Use your fingers to distribute the soap evenly over the surface of the lenses, rinse them with warm water and proceed to the next step.
Step 4. Rub the glasses with the soft cloth
After applying the cleaning solution, you can use the cloth to dry the lenses in gentle circular motions. You shouldn't be too energetic, as you may damage the surfaces over time.
Step 5. Inspect the lenses for stubborn stains
A second application of cleaner may be required before the glasses are completely clean, depending on how dirty they were. After using the specific product or dish soap, dry the lenses with the soft cloth.
Step 6. Eliminate encrustations on the nose pads
Oil and dust accumulate in the gap between the nose piece and the lens, creating a dull film near the nose. By using a soft-bristled toothbrush, dish soap and warm water, you can get rid of these deposits, although you must be very careful and avoid brushing the lenses directly.
- Fill a basin or other container with warm, soapy water.
- Dip the toothbrush in the cleaning solution and mix;
- Gently rub the metal support that connects the nose piece to the frame;
- Shake the brush in the soapy water to remove the dirt that has got stuck between the bristles;
- Rinse your glasses with warm water;
- Check for further debris, deposits and repeat the procedure until the glasses are completely clean.
Part 2 of 3: Making a Household Cleaner
Step 1. Gather the material
Homemade eyeglass cleaner doesn't harm the surface treatment like other products might, but you don't have to rely too much on it to get rid of opacity and smudges. This is an inexpensive alternative to commercial solutions, in case you have finished yours or have not previously purchased it from the optician. To make an artisan cleaner you need:
- Dish soap;
- Isopropyl alcohol (or witch hazel);
- Graduated cup;
- Microfiber cloth;
- Small spray bottle;
- Waterfall.
Step 2. Prepare the material
You should clean the spray bottle and measuring cup before pouring the ingredients into them. This is an important detail, because the dust and dirt left in these containers could contaminate the detergent. If you are using any spray bottle that previously contained household cleaning products, you need to make sure you wash it thoroughly.
Step 3. Mix the liquids in equal parts
When the measuring cup and bottle are clean, you should measure the isopropyl alcohol and water in a ratio of 1: 1 and pour them into the spray bottle; gently shake the container to mix the two ingredients.
For example, you can pour 30ml of water with 30ml of isopropyl alcohol into the bottle
Step 4. Add the dish soap
For this preparation you only need a minimal amount of soap to give the detergent stain-removing properties. Pour a drop of detergent into the water and alcohol solution, close the bottle and shake it to dissolve the soap.
Step 5. Apply the solution to the lenses and wipe away any traces of opacity
Spray a moderate amount on each lens, then take the microfiber cloth and wipe the surfaces to free them of accumulated dirt.
If you don't have a microfiber eyeglass cloth, a clean cotton cloth is fine too
Part 3 of 3: Prevention
Step 1. Always use a soft, clean cloth
The microfiber one that comes with the glasses is ideal for cleaning lenses, even if it gets dirty over time. Using a dusty cloth can cause scratches and cracks on the lenses, making them less transparent; to prevent this from happening, wipe your glasses with a clean, soft cloth.
Step 2. Protect the cloth from the external environment
The more dust and dirt that accumulates on the cloth, the more damage you cause to the lenses over time. Whenever you use it to clean, dry or polish your glasses, you actually rub the dust particles on their surface.
To keep the cloth in perfect condition, you must keep it in the glasses case you carry with you all day. You can also store it in a plastic bag or other container and slip it into your backpack or briefcase
Step 3. Wash the glasses cloth
Depending on the type of washcloth you are using, the washing procedure may vary. A soft cotton cloth can be washed normally, but you should follow the instructions on the label; if you need to wash a microfibre cloth, follow these tips:
- Wash it only with items of the same material;
- Add a small amount of liquid detergent to the washing machine;
- Set a cold water wash cycle;
- Put the washcloth and the rest of the laundry of the same fabric in the washing machine;
- Dry it in the open air or set the dryer on the lowest setting.
Step 4. Clean your lenses regularly
During the day the glasses accumulate dust, dirt and sebum from the face and hands; By regularly cleaning your lenses with a detergent or warm water and dish soap, you can reduce their opacity.
Step 5. Keep your glasses in a case when not in use
This will allow you to prevent dust from accumulating on the lenses and prevent possible bumps that could damage them. Instead of placing your glasses directly on the nightstand, for example, put them in their case first.
