How to remove scratches from glasses expert Tips (Complete Guide)

25 April 2023

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Scratches on eyeglasses can be a common yet frustrating issue, as they not only affect the appearance of the glasses but also obstruct vision and cause eye strain. While it might be tempting to discard your scratched lenses and invest in a new pair, there are several ways to remove scratches from glasses without breaking the bank.

In this article, we will explore how to remove scratches from glasses, helping you to restore their clarity and enhance your visual experience. From DIY remedies to professional services, we’ll cover it all to help you find the best solution for your scratched lenses.

Table of Contents

How to clean eyeglasses properly

Cleaning your eyeglasses properly is essential to maintain clarity and prevent damage. Follow these steps to clean your glasses effectively and safely:

Wash your hands

Start by washing your hands with soap and water to remove dirt, oils, and germs that could transfer to your glasses.

Rinse glasses with lukewarm water

Gently rinse your eyeglasses under lukewarm water to remove dust and debris. Avoid using hot water, as it can damage lens coatings.

Apply a mild dish soap

Use a small amount of mild, lotion-free dish soap on your fingertips. Gently rub the soap onto both sides of the lenses, as well as the frame, nose pads, and earpieces. Be sure to avoid soaps with harsh chemicals or fragrances that could damage your glasses.

Rinse thoroughly

Rinse your glasses under lukewarm water until all the soap is completely washed away. Be sure to remove any soap residue, as it can cause smudging or streaking on your lenses.

Dry with a clean, lint-free cloth

Gently shake your glasses to remove excess water, and then carefully dry them with a clean, lint-free cloth or microfiber towel. Avoid using paper towels, tissues, or your clothing, as these materials can leave lint, residue, or even cause scratches.

Inspect for smudges or streaks

Once your glasses are dry, hold them up to a light source and check for any remaining smudges or streaks. If needed, use a clean microfiber cloth to gently buff away any remaining spots.

Regular cleaning routine

Establish a routine for cleaning your glasses daily or as needed to ensure optimal vision and prevent buildup of dirt and oils.

How to remove scratches from glasses with baking soda?

If the scratches on your glasses do not go away with toothpaste, then you can always fall back on a common kitchen ingredient – baking soda. So, if you are in a rush, here’s the hack that you may try –

Step 1:

Take 2 tablespoons of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of water, and 2 pieces of microfiber cloth.

Step 2:

Start by cleaning your glasses with a microfiber cloth. Once you are done with that, next – concoct the baking soda with water to make a thick paste (make sure that the consistency is thick). After that, you will have to apply this paste to the scratched area of the glasses. It is better that you use the microfiber cloth to rub in a circular motion the baking soda paste gently all over the glass.

Step 3:

After keeping it for 1-2 minutes, wash it off with cold water. Let it dry, and then again wipe it off with a microfiber cloth. Do you see the difference?

#Note: In case this does not provide the desired results, it is best that you do not repeat this technique and seek professional help.

How to remove scratches from glasses with toothpaste?

You wouldn’t want to believe this, but toothpaste is a miracle scratch remover! For the unversed – toothpaste has abrasives that do level out a scratch making it mostly less noticeable or, at times, completely removing it. However, you must exercise this technique with utmost caution because if you do not follow the right way, then that would result in you losing the shine of your glasses.

Before picking the correct toothpaste, you must check its abrasive levels. The Radioactive Dentin Abrasiveness (RDA) must be below 70-80 levels. These are the ones that you will have to use. Another way to choose toothpaste is – to avoid the ones that are designed categorically for plaque removal, sensitive gums, or teeth whitening.

Procedure: You will need toothpaste (with comparatively low abrasive content) and 2 pieces of microfiber cloth (1 damp/ 1 dry).

Start by cleaning the surface of your glass with a dry microfiber cloth. Then take a little toothpaste and dab it on the glasses. You will then have to rub his toothpaste softly onto the glass and in circular motions for 1-2 minutes. Then use the damp cloth to remove the scratches on the glass.

If you are not comfortable with the damp cloth, then you can simply put the glasses under the cold water and then wipe them with a dry microfiber cloth.

How to remove scratches from glasses with plastic lenses?

If you have plastic glasses, this is an amazing technique that you may try. When you are done with the above-mentioned processes and nothing has worked out, you can temporarily solve this issue, remove the coating of your plastic lens.

To start this process, you have to completely clean the plastic lens with a microfiber cloth. Then, get any glass-etching abrasive(one with hydrofluoric acid) and use rubber gloves to apply the same on the plastic lens. You will find that the edge coatings are removed without hurting the lens. It is best suggested you take out the lenses and place it in a container before while using the abrasive solution for finest results.

Once done – wash it under running cool water, wipe it softly with a microfiber cloth and fit it to the glasses. You will find most of the scratches have been removed. you can proceed with multiple techniques.

A scratch remover is a great option

There are plenty of scratch removers available in the market for your plastic glasses. You can always pick up any of the available varieties. If not, you can either opt for a non-abrasive toothpaste or baking powder – water paste. You have to use it in the same way that you have used for cleaning off scratches on your glasses.

Use silver/brass polish as an alternative

If you see that the above-mentioned procedures do not work, you can always use brass or silver polish in its place. Initially rub the polish on the glass and wipe it off with a soft rag-like cloth.

Scratch filling product is useful

Are you looking for some unique ways on how to remove scratches from glasses? Then rather than using the cleaning solutions you can always use – filling products (such as wax fillers). When you apply any of these filling products, you will see for yourself that the wax present in the products automatically ‘fill-in’ the scratches and help smoothen out your glasses. However, it is a temporary respite and it is best you visit a professional for maximum benefits.

Best eyeglass lens cleaner

A high-quality eyeglass lens cleaner is essential for maintaining the clarity and longevity of your glasses. Here are some of the best lens cleaners available on the market:

Zeiss Lens Cleaning Solution

Zeiss is a well-known brand in the optical industry, and their lens cleaning solution is highly effective for cleaning eyeglasses. It is a gentle, ammonia-free formula that effectively removes smudges, dirt, and fingerprints without damaging the lens coatings.

Koala Kleaner Eyeglass Lens Cleaner

This alcohol-free, plant-based lens cleaner effectively removes dirt, oils, and smudges without leaving streaks. It is safe for all lens types and coatings, including anti-reflective lenses.

Flents Wipe ‘N Clear Lens Cleaner

This lens cleaner is safe for all types of lenses and coatings, including anti-reflective lenses. It comes in a convenient spray bottle, making it easy to apply to your glasses for quick and effective cleaning.

Optix 55 Eyeglass Cleaner Spray

This ammonia-free, streak-free lens cleaner is suitable for all types of lenses and coatings. The spray bottle design allows for easy application, and the formula is designed to cut through dirt, oils, and smudges.

Purity Lens Cleaner

Purity’s lens cleaner is a natural, plant-based formula that is safe for all lens types and coatings. It comes in a compact spray bottle and includes a high-quality microfiber cloth for a thorough cleaning.

How to remove smudges from glasses?

Removing smudges from your glasses is essential for maintaining clear vision and preventing eye strain. Here’s how to remove smudges from your eyeglasses effectively:

Microfiber cloth: Keep a clean microfiber cloth handy for quick smudge removal. Gently wipe the lenses using the cloth in a circular motion, applying light pressure to remove smudges without scratching the lenses. Microfiber cloths are specifically designed to pick up dirt, oils, and smudges without leaving any residue behind.
Pre-moistened lens wipes: Individually packaged, pre-moistened lens wipes are convenient for on-the-go smudge removal. These wipes are typically pre-treated with a safe and effective lens cleaning solution. Gently wipe your lenses using the pre-moistened wipe, and allow them to air dry or use a microfiber cloth to dry them.
Lens cleaning spray: You can use a lens cleaning spray specifically designed for eyeglasses to remove smudges. Spray a small amount of the cleaning solution onto a clean microfiber cloth or directly onto the lenses, and then gently wipe the lenses clean. Make sure the cleaning solution you use is safe for your lens type and coatings.
Homemade solution: In a pinch, you can create a homemade cleaning solution by mixing a few drops of mild, lotion-free dish soap with water. Apply a small amount of this solution to a clean microfiber cloth and gently wipe the lenses to remove smudges. Rinse the lenses under lukewarm water and dry them with a clean microfiber cloth.

How to fix bent or misaligned eyeglasses

Bent or misaligned eyeglasses can be uncomfortable to wear and may also affect your vision. Here are some steps you can take to fix bent or misaligned glasses at home. However, if the damage is severe or if you’re not confident in making adjustments, it’s always best to visit a professional optician for assistance.

Assess the damage: First, carefully inspect your eyeglasses to determine which part is bent or misaligned. Common issues include bent nose pads, crooked frames, or twisted temples.

Adjust the nose pads: If the nose pads are bent, use your fingers or a pair of needle-nose pliers to gently adjust them until they sit comfortably and symmetrically on your nose. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure, as this may cause the nose pads to break.

Straighten the frame: If the frame is crooked, hold the glasses with both hands and gently bend the frame in the opposite direction of the bend. Apply even pressure and make small adjustments to avoid damaging the frame. You can also use a hairdryer to warm the plastic frames slightly before making adjustments, but be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause damage.

Align the temples: If the temples are twisted or uneven, hold the glasses with one hand and use your other hand to gently bend the temple back into position. Make sure to bend the temple at the hinge or the point where it connects to the frame. You can also use needle-nose pliers with a cloth or tissue wrapped around the tips to protect the glasses from scratches while making adjustments.

Check for proper fit: After making adjustments, try on your glasses to ensure they fit comfortably and sit evenly on your face. You may need to make additional adjustments to achieve the desired fit.

Visit a professional optician: If you’re unable to fix the misalignment yourself or if the glasses still don’t fit comfortably, it’s best to visit a professional optician for assistance. They have the expertise and tools necessary to make precise adjustments and repairs.

How to prevent glasses from fogging up

Foggy glasses can be a frustrating problem, especially when transitioning between warm and cold environments or while wearing a face mask. Here are some tips to help prevent your glasses from fogging up:

Adjust your glasses

Ensure that your glasses are sitting properly on your face. Position them slightly farther away from your face, allowing for better air circulation and reducing the chance of fogging.

Use anti-fog wipes or spray

Anti-fog wipes or sprays can be applied to your lenses to create a thin, transparent layer that helps prevent condensation. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and reapply as needed.

Adjust your face mask

If you’re wearing a face mask, make sure it fits snugly around your nose and cheeks. This helps to direct your breath downward, reducing the amount of warm air that rises and fogs your glasses. You can also use a mask with a built-in nose wire or add a nose strip to create a better seal.

Use a tissue or paper towel

Place a folded tissue or paper towel between your face and the top of your mask. This can help to absorb the moisture from your breath, preventing it from rising and fogging your glasses.

Use soap and water

Wash your glasses with a mild dish soap and water, then shake off the excess water and allow them to air dry. The thin layer of soap left on the lenses can help to prevent fogging. Be cautious with this method if your lenses have special coatings, as some soaps may cause damage.

Apply anti-fog paste or gel

Some anti-fog products come in the form of a paste or gel. Apply a small amount to your lenses, then gently buff with a clean, lint-free cloth until the lenses are clear.

Invest in lenses with anti-fog coatings

If fogging is a persistent issue, consider purchasing eyeglasses with lenses that have a built-in anti-fog coating. These coatings are specifically designed to minimise condensation and fogging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How can I rеmovе scratchеs from my glassеs at homе?

Ans: Whilе it’s difficult to complеtеly rеmovе scratchеs from glassеs at homе, you can try using a pastе madе of baking soda and watеr. Apply the paste to thе scratchеd arеa, gеntly rub it with a soft cloth, and thеn rinsе it off. This mеthod may rеducе thе appearance of minor scratchеs.

Q2: Can toothpastе rеmovе scratchеs from glassеs?

Ans: Toothpastе can bе usеd to attеmpt scratch rеmoval. Apply a non-abrasivе toothpastе to thе scratchеd arеa, gеntly rub with a soft cloth, and rinsе thoroughly.

Q3: Arе thеrе any commеrcial products to rеmovе scratchеs from glassеs?

Ans: Yеs, thеrе arе commеrcial products likе glass scratch rеmovеrs and lеns rеpair kits availablе in thе markеt. Thеsе products arе spеcially dеsignеd to rеducе thе visibility of scratchеs on glassеs. Follow thе manufacturеr’s instructions for thе bеst rеsults.

Q4: Can scratches on anti-reflective or anti-scratch coats be removed?

Ans: It’s challеnging to remove scratchеs from anti-rеflеctivе or anti-scratch coated lenses bеcаusе thеsе coatings are designed to protect the lenses. Attempting to remove scratchеs may damagе thе coating. If your coatеd lеnsеs havе significant scratchеs, it’s bеst to consult a profеssional optician for advicе.

Q5: What should I do if I can’t rеmovе thе scratchеs from my glassеs on my own?

Ans: If homе rеmеdiеs or commеrcial products don’t еffеctivеly rеmovе thе scratchеs from your glassеs, it’s rеcommеndеd to sееk thе hеlp of a profеssional optician or an еyеglass rеpair spеcialist. Thеy can assеss thе damagе and providе suitablе solutions, which may includе lеns rеplacеmеnt or rеfinishing.