Everyone knows it – at some point the day has come when our favorite pair of sunglasses has one, or even worse, several noticeable scratches in the lens. But that doesn’t mean we have to say goodbye to them right away.
One thing in advance: removing scratches from sunglasses can often prove to be a tricky business, but with some tried-and-tested methods and home remedies, you may be able to extend the life of your glasses. Read on to find out how to get rid of unsightly scratches using common household remedies.
Nail polish fills scratches
For smaller scratches, clear nail polish can be considered. A thin layer applied on the scratch and dried can help to temporarily fill the scratch. Always remove excess polish carefully.
Oil removes small scratches on sunglasses
Home remedies such as olive oil or baby oil can also be useful. A drop of oil applied to the scratch and gently polished with a clean cloth could result in visible improvement.
Toothpaste can remove sunglass scratches
One method that is often recommended is the use of toothpaste. Here, it’s best not to reach for the aggressive whitening toothpaste! By carefully rubbing the toothpaste onto the scratch and then rinsing and drying the glasses, light scratches can be reduced. Alternatively, use special eyeglass polishes specifically designed to remove scratches.
Baking soda as a proven household remedy
One household remedy available for scratch removal is baking soda. Mixing it with water creates a paste that is applied to the scratch and gently rubbed in. After thoroughly rinsing and drying the glasses, improvement may be visible.
Consult experts
It should be noted, however, that not all methods are suitable for every type of eyewear, and some treatments may affect the lens coatings. Before treating the entire pair of glasses, it is best to test it on an inconspicuous area.
If in doubt, it is advisable to seek professional help to avoid unwanted damage. That is why in cases of deeper or more serious scratches on sunglasses, it is recommended to consult a professional optician or eyeglass repair service.
Regular cleaning prevents scratches
To prevent this from happening in the first place, proper cleaning of sunglasses is important to prevent scratches and ensure the longevity of the glasses. Here are some steps to effectively clean sunglasses:
- Regular cleaning: first rinse the sunglasses under warm water to remove loose dirt particles. This will prevent scratches caused by rubbing sand or dust on the lenses. Use a mild soap solution or a special eyeglass cleaner when doing this.
- Microfiber Cloth: A clean, lint-free microfiber cloth is ideal for drying and polishing lenses. Avoid coarse cloths or paper towels as they may cause scratches.
- Stubborn stains: For stubborn stains, you can soak the glasses in a mild soap solution for a few minutes – avoid harsh chemicals at all costs – or use an ultrasonic device to clean them. This is also great for stubborn jewelry.
- Glasses Case: Keep your sunglasses in a clean glasses case when you’re not wearing them. This will protect them from scratches and dirt.
- Eyeglass chain: not only is an eyeglass chain totally in style right now, but it also ensures that your sunglasses don’t get tossed lovelessly into your bag.
- Avoid heat: Don’t leave your sunglasses in hot cars, as extreme heat can damage the frame or the UV coating on the lenses. Not only bad for the glasses themselves, but also for your eyes.
