Polarized lenses greatly reduce reflections and improve the sharpness of vision, especially when the lighting is intense; as they have received special treatment to achieve this effect, they require specific care if they are to maintain their original effectiveness and appearance. Not all polarized lenses are the same and you should always follow the manufacturer's directions. However, these general guidelines can help you keep your glasses clean and in good condition.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Cleaning the Glasses
Step 1. Follow the manufacturer's directions
There is no universal type of polarized lenses, nor a single method to keep them clean. Different manufacturers use different techniques and materials to achieve polarization, so you should always follow the specific maintenance directions for the glasses you own.
- If you need specific advice for your eyewear model, check out the manufacturer's website or visit an optical store.
- In any case, regardless of the brand, you will not take any risks by applying the methods described in the following steps.
- In case you are not sure if your glasses are polarized, read How to tell if sunglasses are polarized.
Step 2. Invest in a microfiber cloth
Who hasn't cleaned a finger from the glasses with a piece of the shirt, with the sleeve or a handkerchief? However, these materials are too rough and full of dust particles that could scratch the coating of the polarized lenses.
- Many polarized glasses come with a small microfiber cleaning cloth. If not, you can easily find them in optical stores or eye care departments in supermarkets.
- You can also use a soft, clean cotton cloth, but it is not recommended by the manufacturers.
- Whichever cloth you decide to use, make sure it's clean. You can wash the microfiber in the washing machine, but avoid adding fabric softener. Products of that type can leave unwanted chemicals and oils on the fabric.
Step 3. Use water first
Warm, clean water is often the easiest, safest, cheapest and most effective way to remove fingerprints, dirt, grease, etc. with polarized lenses.
- Before proceeding with the cleaning, remove the dust and debris on the surface by blowing on the glasses, then eventually put them under warm water.
- If there is any residue of salt (due to sea water) or any other type of abrasive material left on the lenses, be sure to rinse them well with water before rubbing them.
- Rub the lenses with the microfiber cloth when they are still wet or directly under running water. Apply just enough pressure to remove the dirt and fingerprints.
- The old method of breathing warm, moist air over the lenses before gently rubbing them is acceptable when dirt is light and easy to remove. However, be sure to completely moisten the lenses.
Step 4. Use a lens cleaner only as recommended and as needed
Often, polarized glasses are expensive, so you may be tempted not to spend any more money on a cleaner. After all, isn't it enough for you to just use dish soap or window cleaner? If you have to clean polarized lenses, the answer is certainly no.
- Commercial soaps, household cleaners, and especially window cleaners can contain chemicals that will slowly but surely dissolve the coating on your glasses. Over time they would become dull and less effective in reducing reflections.
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The manufacturers of many well-known brands of polarized lenses have specific recommendations on the use of detergents. These include:
- Purchase cleaners directly from them or choose one with a pH between 5, 5 and 8.
- Purchase a cleanser (from other brands), which contains less than 5% alcohol.
- Avoid using cleansers and apply only lukewarm water to your glasses.
Part 2 of 2: Extending Cleanliness and Functionality
Clean Polarized Glasses Step 5 Step 1. Learn the basics of polarization
Without going into too much detail, polarization works by filtering horizontal reflections, i.e. light reflecting off water, snow, car hoods, etc.
- The significant reduction in reflections that these lenses allow to achieve is the reason why they are widely used by professional skiers, fishermen and pilots.
- The effect is achieved by applying a thin coating to the surface of the lenses. This coating is vulnerable to scratches and can melt without proper maintenance.
Clean Polarized Glasses Step 6 Step 2. Protect your glasses
While there are inexpensive polarized lenses on the market, you've probably spent a lot on your glasses. For this, always follow the manufacturer's instructions on maintenance, as well as the following recommendations:
- Always keep your glasses in their case when not in use. This is the simplest way to prevent scratches and the accumulation of dust and dirt.
- Do not leave the glasses exposed to extreme temperatures, which can deform the polarized coating. For example, avoid leaving them under the windshield, where they can cook in the hot sunlight.
- Always avoid dry wiping polarized lenses, even with a microfiber cloth. The friction caused by the tiny particles of dust and dirt on the lenses can damage the coating if it is not lubricated by water or a specific detergent.
Clean Polarized Glasses Step 7 Step 3. Have your glasses repaired and cleaned by a professional
Along with the polarized glasses you may have also received the cleaning and repair kit. Use it as recommended for regular cleaning and minor repairs. However, it may be worthwhile to periodically return to the optical store where you purchased your glasses to have them cleaned, inspected, and repaired.
