Q: I noticed my months-old glasses have lots of tiny scratches on the lenses. I use those lens wipes from the store and and pretty careful, so what’s going?
A: Without a doubt, the very best cleaning cloth is the small microfiber cloth that came with your new eyewear. While you can, and should, toss this in the laundry once in a while, most opticals will give you a new one anytime you ask.
A good habit to start is wiping off your lenses at the start of each day. Gently buff out any smudges to prevent lens surface damage. Today’s lenses are very high-tech…..with anti-glare multilayered coatings, ultraviolet filters, blue light blockers, scratch-resistant coatings, and often new polymers that are lighter weight to prevent cracks and chipping. The most durable material, good old glass, is essentially never used these days because it can easily break exposing your eyes to a potential penetrating injury.
If your glasses are very dirty or have stubborn smudges, first rinse them under warm tap water to wash away any grit. Then put a drop of dishwashing soap like Dawn on your fingertip and gently clean both lens surfaces, front and back, with your index finger and thumb. Lastly, rinse with warm water and dry with a dry microfiber cloth.
Two big cautions……..never use those “lens cleaner tissues” sold at many big box stores! They are made of paper and will scratch your lenses over time. In fact, avoid all paper products to wipe or dry your lenses: tissues, paper towels, etc. Even your shirt sleeve may be slightly abrasive to your lenses. Lastly, never use “glass cleaners” as most contain ammonia and/or alcohol that may ruin your lens surfaces.
Your investment in new eyewear can be significant these days. Caring for your lenses properly should give you sharp clear vision, and a great-looking facial accessory, for many years!