How to look after your glasses

Choosing new frames? Read how to choose glasses frames.

Good care keeps lenses clear and frames comfortable for years. Most damage comes from a few common habits, and all of them are easy to avoid.

How to clean your glasses

1. Rinse first. Hold the glasses under lukewarm running water to wash off dust and grit. Dry dust is what scratches lenses when you wipe.
2. Use a drop of mild soap. A little washing-up liquid on your fingertips is enough. Rub gently over both sides of each lens and the frame, including the nose pads.
3. Rinse again. Remove all the soap.
4. Dry with a clean microfibre cloth. Shake off the water first and pat dry. Wash the cloth often, because a dirty cloth drags grit across the lens.

What to avoid

• Your shirt, tissue or paper towel. They hold dust and have rough fibres that scratch lenses.
• Saliva or breath wipes on dry lenses. They smear and spread dirt.
• Harsh household glass cleaners. Strong chemicals can damage lens coatings such as anti-glare.
• Heat. Do not leave glasses on a car dashboard or in direct midday sun. Heat can damage coatings and warp frames.
• Resting them lens-down on a table, or pushing them up onto your head, which stretches the arms.

In Karachi’s heat and humidity, sweat and dust build up quickly, so rinsing your glasses more often helps.

Handle them gently

Take glasses off and put them on with both hands, holding the arms evenly. Using one hand pulls the frame out of shape. When you are not wearing them, keep them in a hard case.

When something feels wrong

• If the glasses slide down, sit crooked or press on your nose or ears, they probably need a small adjustment. See glasses repair and frame adjustment.
• If a lens is scratched or your prescription has changed, you may not need a new frame. Ask about lens replacement in your old frame.
• If your vision seems worse, book an eye test. Our guide to reading your prescription explains the numbers.

Next steps

Visit our counter in Shah Faisal Colony for adjustments, or browse new eyeglasses if it is time for a change.