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How to Properly Care for your Glasses

Glasses care for your family by Gerstein Eye Institute

If you have prescription eyeglasses, no one has to tell you that they’re a big investment. You spend time and money on these lenses to improve your vision, and it’s important to make sure they’re sparkling clean so that you can really see through them. What’s more, you’ll want to make sure you’re caring for them properly, to avoid damaging those precious specs.

Proper cleaning of eyeglasses:

  • If you’re out and about, use a cloth specifically made to clean eyeglasses. A microfiber cloth is a good choice, and so are pre-moistened cloths especially formulated for glasses.
  • When you’re home, spend a little more time cleaning them. Spray the lens with cleaning solution and wipe with a microfiber cloth. Never wipe them with a paper towel or article of clothing, because these materials can be abrasive and scratch the lenses. Let them air dry before putting them back on.
  • For deep cleaning, use tap water, and cleaning solution. First, rinse the eyeglasses in lukewarm to warm tap water, and then use a gentle cleaning solution, free of lotion, to wash the lenses, using only a few drops so that you don’t leave soap residue on the lenses. Rinse, looking for missed spots, and if the glasses still look dirty, repeat the process. Once they’re clean, use a lint-free towel to remove most of the water, and then allow them to air dry.

Wearing your eyeglasses properly:

  • Don’t wear your glasses on top of your head. Instead, take them off and put them in their case. Wearing them on the top of your head can stretch them out because that area is typically wider than your face.
  • Put your glasses on and take them off with both hands. Using only one hand can throw off their alignment and change the way they fit.
  • Never push on the nose piece. If your glasses slip down your nose, push them up on either side rather than pushing on the nose piece. If you’re wearing wire glasses, pressure on the nose piece can distort it.

Storing your eyeglasses:

  • Keep your glasses in a hard case that’s the right size for them. Get into the habit of putting them in the case each time you take them off.
  • Have a backup case. It’s important to have a case with you if you forget your primary case, or if it is damaged.
  • Use a glasses cord instead of a pocket. Putting your glasses in your pocket or hanging them from the neck of your shirt can warp them. Invest in a cord, to keep them safely around your neck.
  • Never put your glasses anywhere hazardous. Don’t put them into a bag without first putting them in their case, don’t leave them in a hot car, and never put them close to a sink or vanity where they could get splashed with something corrosive.
  • Store your glasses lenses up. If the lenses face down in the case, the glasses are likely to become scratched.
  • Mind the screws. Keep an eye on the little screws that hold your frame together, tightening them if they become loose.

If you are looking for an eye doctor, the Gerstein Eye Institute in Chicago can help. Since 1968, the Gerstein Eye Institute has been providing exceptional ophthalmologic care to patients in the Chicago area. With decades of experience in ophthalmology, our certified professional staff members have together performed over 30,000 procedures. To schedule a consultation, call us at 773.596.9545 or contact us through our website.