Just one tiny smudge on your lenses can be enough to drive you crazy… right? Wearing eyeglasses lets you see the world clearly, but to keep your lenses clean and comfortable, proper care is essential! A simple cleaning routine can extend the life of your glasses and improve your visual experience.
You chose your glasses carefully—now take care of them! In this article, you'll discover the best practices for cleaning and maintaining your glasses effectively. Happy reading!
What you’ll learn in this article:
9 tips for properly cleaning and maintaining your glasses
1. Use lukewarm water and mild soap
Here’s a life-changing tip: a quick rinse with lukewarm water followed by cleaning with regular dish soap effectively removes dirt and oil. Make it a habit to do this occasionally to get rid of grime and prolong the life of your frames. Avoid soaps with abrasive or moisturizing agents, as they can damage lens coatings or leave greasy residue.
2. Use a clean microfiber cloth
A microfiber cloth is perfect for removing dust and fingerprints without damaging the lenses. Avoid using your clothing or paper towels, which can cause micro-scratches. If you don’t have a cleaning cloth handy, a tissue can do the trick—as long as it’s dampened with a proper lens cleaning solution. Luckily, New Look provides a microfiber cloth with every pair of glasses (remember to wash it regularly by hand with dish soap or in the laundry without fabric softener). That’s all it takes!
3. Avoid abrasive products
Even if they seem harmless, tissues, paper towels, and some cotton fabrics may contain fibers that scratch lenses. For safe cleaning, gently wipe with a non-moisturizing tissue, then finish with a clean, soft microfiber cloth.
4. Store your glasses in a hard case
When you’re not wearing your glasses, store them in a case to prevent scratches or accidental damage. A hard case is included with every purchase at New Look.
5. Handle your glasses with care
Always put on and take off your glasses using both hands to avoid bending the frames. Proper handling prevents frequent adjustments and extends their lifespan.
6. Avoid exposure to heat
Don’t leave your glasses in a hot car or near intense heat sources. Heat can damage lens coatings and warp plastic frames.
7. Get your glasses adjusted regularly
Over time, glasses may loosen. An in-store adjustment helps keep them comfortable and properly aligned. At New Look, you can get your glasses adjusted for free at any store location. Our team can also deep-clean them using ultrasonic cleaning baths!
8. Rinse your glasses well before cleaning
The biggest threat to your lenses isn’t always what you see, but what you don’t! While traveling or doing outdoor activities—like going to the beach or camping—your glasses pick up dust, sand, and tiny invisible particles. If you wipe them without rinsing first, that’s when micro-scratches form. Always rinse your glasses before cleaning to avoid scratching them.
9. Clean your glasses daily
As with everything, prevention is better than cure! Daily care ensures clear vision and prevents dust and dirt from accumulating on your lenses.
How often you should clean your glasses
Ideally, clean your glasses every day. The frequency may vary depending on your environment and lifestyle. If you work in a dusty or greasy place (like a kitchen!), or if you frequently touch your lenses, you’ll need to clean them more often.
Why it’s important to care for your eyeglasses
1. Clear vision
Clean lenses give you an unobstructed view. Dust and fingerprints can cause annoying glare and reduce visual quality.
2. Longer lifespan for lenses and frames
Regular maintenance helps prevent premature wear on lens coatings and frames, extending the life of your glasses.
3. Visual comfort
Scratched or misaligned lenses can cause eye strain and headaches. Good upkeep ensures comfortable wear every day.
4. Personal hygiene
Your glasses are in constant contact with your skin and can collect bacteria. Regular cleaning helps prevent irritation and infections.
When to seek professional advice in-store
Need a deep clean or adjustment? Stop by your local store as often as needed for professional maintenance! Our in-store teams can advise you on caring for your glasses and help you adjust them for optimal comfort.
Book an appointment or visit a New Look store to learn more!