How to Clean Your Polarized Sunglasses

Many people invest a significant amount in polarized sunglasses, expecting them to last for years. However, it's not uncommon to find these pricey accessories scratched or bent after just a few months of use. This often leads to the question: were you scammed, or is there another reason for their quick deterioration? The truth is, no matter how much you spend, neglecting proper care can lead to damage. Polarized sunglasses require specific maintenance to preserve their quality and functionality.

With the right care techniques and a bit of customization, you can significantly extend the life of your sunglasses. This blog on how to clean polarized sunglasses will guide you through essential tips and methods to maintain them, ensuring they remain in excellent condition.

What Causes Scratches on Polarized Sunglasses?

Before we know what is causing the scratches to your sunglasses, let us first understand what these polarized glasses are. The lens is specifically created for active daily life, offering clear vision and reflection reduction from flat reflective items like water, snow & glass. A polarized film is sandwiched between the front and back sides of a traditional lens, which blocks horizontal light waves and only allows vertically oriented light through—which significantly cuts down on glare.

Careless handling or even improper cleaning can do more damage than you think. So, it's important to know how to fix scratches on polarized sunglasses without using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that could damage the film. Proper care and gentle cleaning will help keep your polarized sunglasses in great shape and extend their lifespan.

What is The Best Way to Clean Sunglasses?

Before explaining the process for cleaning polarized sunglasses, you must know outdated cleaning practices usually cause more harm than good. For example, using a random cloth or tissue to clean them, but these materials can damage the sensitive polarization layer over time, which in turn impacts how effectively sunglasses function as shades for your eyes too. In the following section, we will see how you can properly care for your lenses easily:

No Random Cloth, Use Microfibre.

When cleaning your polarized sunglasses, always choose a microfiber cloth. Microfiber is a unique material that absorbs dust, dirt, and oil rather than just pushing them around the Surface. Since it is made of soft fiber, the material will trap the dirt particles, without scratching the lens.

Warm Water Does Wonders

Rinse your sunglasses under warm water to remove surface debris. It's crucial to avoid extremely hot water, as it can damage the polarization coating. Warm water helps to loosen dirt and grime, making it easier to wipe away without applying too much pressure, which could scratch the lenses.

No Harsh Soaps, No Matter What!

Avoid the use of bar soaps, detergents, or cleaning liquids which may contain harsh chemicals that could damage (degrade) the polarization coat. The oleophobic and hydrophobic ingredients that are used in the majority of our body soaps these days can slowly erode all those protective coatings on your lenses, which is a significant cause for concern. The best results are achieved by using water and your specific lens-cleaning solution. If you have to use soap while cleaning polarized sunglasses, opt for a gentle dishwashing soap without any additives.

Invest in a Lens Cleaning Solution

If you're looking for the best way to clean sunglasses, consider investing in a lens-cleaning solution specifically designed for eyewear. These solutions are formulated to clean effectively without damaging the polarization layer. A small spray can make a significant difference, helping to keep your sunglasses clear and in top condition for years to come. Be sure to avoid any that contain alcohol as alcohol can ruin lens coatings.

Other Things To Keep in Mind

In addition to knowing how to clean polarized sunglasses, proper storage, and careful usage are key to maintaining their quality and extending their lifespan. Here are some tips to help you keep them in top shape:

• Get an Anti-Scratch Coating: Use an anti-scratch coating on your lenses. This extra layer wraps directly to sunglasses for the best defense against minor scrapes and maintains optical polarization. It is a relatively small investment that pays off your glasses. 
• Store in a Hard Case: Always keep your sunglasses in a hard case when not being used. This prevents losses from being dropped or crushed and keeps the lenses clean.
• Avoid Leaving in Hot Environments: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures, such as leaving them in a hot car, can warp the frames and damage the polarization layer. Keep them in a cool, shaded place whenever possible.
• Handle with Clean Hands: Oils and dirt from your hands can transfer to the lenses, affecting clarity. Make it a habit to handle your sunglasses with clean hands to minimize smudges and maintain their pristine condition.
• Consider an Oleophobic Coating: You should consider it mandatory to have an oleophobic coating on your lenses. This coating repels oils and fingerprints, which means that your lenses will not get as gross or blurry after you have touched them. It reduces the frequency of cleaning needed and helps maintain optimal vision.
• Never wipe your lenses dry: People like to use their t-shirt to wipe their glasses. This is a no-no. Most scratching occurs when fine dust particles are rubbed across the lens. Make sure you rinse off all dirt and debris first so that you don’t rub that dirt across the lens.

 

By following these tips, you can ensure your polarized sunglasses remain in excellent condition, providing you with clear vision and protection for years to come..

Enhance Your Vision With Proper Care

Ultimately, remember that lenses are made of polycarbonate, plastic or other soft material, and scratches will happen. However, the lifespan of clear scratch-free lenses will only last as long as they are cared for. So, skip out on the DIY practices. We’ve got everything you need to keep your eyewear scratch-free; from cleaning solutions to protective coatings.

Visit Sporteyes today to explore our range of eyewear care options and keep your vision crystal clear. Don't let scratches cloud your view—take action now!