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How to Clean Sunglasses

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On July 5, 2025

Sunglasses are more than a fashion accessory—they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and enhance your vision in bright conditions. Yet, improper cleaning can lead to cloudy lenses, reduced clarity, and even permanent damage to delicate coatings. Many people unknowingly harm their sunglasses by scrubbing with paper towels, using harsh chemicals, or storing them in a pocket where dust accumulates. To keep your shades in top condition and extend their lifespan, it’s essential to follow the right cleaning techniques and materials. This guide will show you how to clean sunglasses effectively without compromising their quality.

Why Properly Cleaning Sunglasses Matters

Regular cleaning isn’t just about aesthetics. Over time, dirt, smudges, and debris can scratch lenses or degrade anti-reflective and UV-protective coatings, diminishing their performance. Clean lenses ensure accurate vision, reducing eye strain caused by glare or blurred clarity. Additionally, maintaining your sunglasses properly prevents frame warping and keeps nose pads and hinges from slipping or breaking. A small investment in care can save you from expensive replacements or compromised eye protection.

What You’ll Need to Clean Sunglasses

Microfiber Cloth – Designed to gently lift particles without scratching the lens surface.

Mild Soap or Dishwashing Liquid – Avoids harsh residues and dissolves grime safely.

Lukewarm Water – Prevents warping and removes dust effectively without high heat.

Soft-Bristle Toothbrush (Optional) – Ideal for reaching tight spaces like hinge joints.

Lens Cleaning Spray (Optional) – Provides a convenient, coating-friendly alternative to homemade solutions.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Sunglasses

Rinse the Sunglasses with Lukewarm Water

Begin by rinsing your sunglasses under lukewarm water to flush away loose dirt or sand. This step is crucial because rubbing particles into the lens while dry can cause scratches. Avoid hot water, which may soften the lens material or damage UV coatings, especially on plastic frames.

Apply a Drop of Mild Soap

Place a small drop of mild dish soap or lens-specific cleaner on each lens. Gently rub the soap into the surface with your fingertips, focusing on areas with smudges or residue. Be careful not to use excessive pressure, as this can scratch the lens coatings or accumulate soap on the frames.

Scrub the Frame and Nose Pads

Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to scrub the frame, particularly around hinges, nose pads, and temple areas. These spots often trap oils, lotions, or debris, which can loosen over time. Make sure to rinse the brush thoroughly before using it on the lenses to prevent scratching.

Rinse Thoroughly with Clean Water

Hold your sunglasses under a stream of clean, lukewarm water to wash away all soap. Residue left behind can cloud the lenses or attract more dirt. Shake off excess water gently to avoid moisture buildup on the nose pads or frame joints.

Dry with a Microfiber Cloth

Use a clean microfiber cloth to dry the lenses, patting them in a circular motion to avoid streaks. Never use paper towels, clothing, or rough fabrics, as these can leave lint or micro-scratches. For particularly smudged lenses, a lens cleaning spray can help create a streak-free finish.

What NOT to Do When Cleaning Sunglasses

Using Household Cleaners – Products like Windex or alcohol-based wipes can dissolve lens coatings and fog the glass.

Wiping with Paper Towels or T-Shirts – These materials are too abrasive, causing permanent scratches and reducing clarity.

Using Harsh Brushes or Sharp Objects – Even a slightly stiff brush can damage delicate lens surfaces or frame finishes.

Exposing to Extreme Heat – Leaving sunglasses in a car or drying them under a hot towel can warp the frame or crack the lenses.

How Often Should You Clean Your Sunglasses?

Daily Use – A weekly cleaning is sufficient for regular wear, ensuring no buildup occurs.

Heavy Use (Beach, Sports) – Clean after every session to remove sand, saltwater, or sweat that cling to surfaces.

Storage – Always store your sunglasses in a padded case when not in use to prevent scratches and dirt accumulation.

FAQ: How to Clean Sunglasses

Q1: Can I use a hand sanitizer or alcohol wipes to clean my sunglasses?
Alcohol-based products can dry out lens coatings and cause irreversible clouding. Opt for a microfiber cloth and mild soap instead.

Q2: What if my sunglasses have polarised lenses?

Follow the same method but skip harsh chemicals. Polarised lenses have a thin layer that can be easily stripped by abrasive substances.

Q3: How do I remove deep scratches from sunglasses?

For minor scratches, try a lens polishing kit or dab a tiny amount of non-abrasive toothpaste onto the microfiber cloth. Deep scratches typically require a professional assessment.

Q4: Can I put my sunglasses in the dishwasher?

No. Dishwasher heat and detergents are harsh enough to warp frames, damage coatings, and dull lens clarity. Hand cleaning is always safer.

Q5: How do I clean sunglasses with a mirror coating?

Use the soap-and-water method, and avoid scrubbing with anything abrasive. Mirror coatings are fragile, so gentle drying is key to maintaining their reflective finish.

Conclusion

Proper cleaning techniques are vital to preserving the quality, functionality, and lifespan of your sunglasses. Using a microfiber cloth, mild soap, and lukewarm water ensures a streak-free shine while protecting delicate coatings. Avoid common pitfalls like household cleaners or rough materials to prevent damage. Whether you wear your shades daily or during outdoor adventures, regular maintenance is the best way to keep them clear and comfortable. Have a favorite cleaning hack? Share your tips in the comments below!