How to Clean Your Glasses Properly (And What's Secretly Damaging Them)

How to Clean Your Glasses (Without Ruining Them)

At a glance:
To clean your glasses safely, rinse lenses under lukewarm water, use a drop of mild washing-up liquid, and dry with a clean microfibre cloth. Avoid tissues or paper towels, as these can scratch lenses over time.

We have all done it. You are out and about, your vision goes a bit blurry, and you instinctively reach for the hem of your jumper or a paper towel to give your lenses a quick wipe.

Stop! 

That might seem convenient, but it is actually the fastest way to damage your lenses. You likely have everything you need to keep your vision crystal clear right in your kitchen.

Why Your Cleaning Habit Matters

Looking after your glasses isn't just about clear vision today, it is about making sure your lenses actually last. Most modern lenses are finished with protective layers, but if yours feel permanently smudgy or hazy, it could be that those coatings have started to wear away. If you are finding your vision a bit off, have a read of our guide:
Why Your Old Glasses Might Be Causing Eye Strain

Think about it: when you wipe a dry lens with a jumper or a tissue, you are essentially dragging dust across the surface like sandpaper. Those tiny scratches build up over time, which is exactly what makes your lenses look cloudy—no matter how much you try to clean them.

The Do's:

This is the most effective, safest way to clean your glasses without damaging the protective layers.

1. Rinse with lukewarm water: Run your glasses under a light stream of tap water. This removes the surface dust and grit that cause those annoying scratches. Avoid hot water, as it can damage some frame materials and certain lens coatings.

2. Apply a tiny drop of washing-up liquid: Use a tiny amount of mild, lotion-free washing-up liquid on your fingertips. Gently lather the lenses and the frame, especially the nose pads and the parts where the lenses meet the rims—this is where skin oils and makeup gather.

3. Rinse thoroughly: Make sure all the soap is gone. Any leftover residue will cause streaking the next time you wear them.

4. Dry with a clean microfibre cloth: Gently pat the lenses dry.
   Never use kitchen roll, tissues, or toilet paper.
   These products are made from wood pulp and contain tiny fibres that are abrasive enough to scratch your lenses.

The Don'ts:

• Do not use alcohol-based wipes: Many pre-packaged lens wipes contain alcohol, which strips away your lens coatings over time. If you have previously invested in Anti-Reflection Coating: Why You Shouldn’t Skip It, you really do not want to accidentally rub it off.

• Saliva: Just no! (Germs-Ew!)

• Window & Glass cleaners: Products like glass cleaner contain harsh chemicals that are far too aggressive for high-index or coated lenses and can even damage your frame.

FAQs

How often should I actually clean my glasses?

Honestly, don’t stress about a full soap-and-water deep clean every single morning. A quick wipe with a clean microfibre cloth usually does the trick for day-to-day dust. But, once they start looking smeary—or if you have been caught in the rain, got some makeup on the rims, or just generally had a busy day—that is when the soap-and-water method is your best friend. Think of it as a reset button for your lenses.

How do I keep my microfibre cloth clean?

Your cloth picks up grease and dust every time you use it. If you use a dirty cloth, you are just smearing the grime back onto your lenses. Pop it in the washing machine on a cool cycle, but do not use fabric softener—it leaves a waxy residue that causes streaks.

Helpful Reading:

What Are Lens Coatings-And Do You Need Them?

Can You Put New Lenses in Old Frames? Reglazing Explained

How Often Should You Replace Your Glasses?