Cleaning sunglasses seems straightforward, but without the proper care, you could easily scratch lenses or damage frames. We’ve all been there! From wiping your lenses on your shirt to using harsh cleaners that break down your frames, it’s important to know the do’s and don’ts of keeping your shades in top condition. That's why we put together this very guide right here.
Step-by-Step Guide to Safely Cleaning Sunglasses
Let’s walk through the safest and most effective ways to clean your sunglasses, step by step, to ensure they stay as pristine as the day you bought them.
1. Rinse With Lukewarm Water
Before grabbing a cloth, always start by rinsing your sunglasses under lukewarm water. This helps to remove dust and particles that could scratch the lenses when you wipe them. Avoid using hot water, as it can damage lens coatings or warp plastic frames over time. Don’t worry, every pair of Melonz sunglasses are made to handle a splash of water.
2. Use a Mild Soap or Lens Cleaner
Once you’ve rinsed, apply a small amount of mild dish soap (without lotions or strong fragrances) or an alcohol-free lens cleaner. Gently lather the lenses, frames, and nose pads. If your sunglasses have polarized or mirrored lenses, be extra cautious to use cleaners designed for sensitive coatings to avoid peeling or discoloration.
3. Rub Gently With Your Fingers
For the best results, use your fingertips to gently clean every part of the sunglasses, from the lenses to the hinges. The soft touch of your fingers is ideal for avoiding scratches. Avoid using paper towels, tissues, or rough fabrics that can easily leave micro-scratches on the lenses.
4. Rinse Again
After washing, rinse your sunglasses under lukewarm water once more. This step is essential to remove all traces of soap or cleaner that could otherwise dry on the lenses and leave streaks or residue.
5. Pat Dry With a Microfiber Cloth
Drying your sunglasses is a key part of the process. Use a microfiber cloth—never your shirt, towels, or paper products, as these can all scratch the lenses. Gently pat the lenses and frames dry. Avoid rubbing the lenses to prevent any dirt particles from causing damage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Maybe you saw someone clean sunglasses and are repeating their methods, or perhaps you came up with a few tactics on your own, but either way, mistakes with cleaning sunglasses are actually quite common. Here are some of the most common sunglass care mistakes:
No Harsh Cleaners
Cleaning products containing ammonia, bleach, or vinegar can strip coatings from your lenses and damage the frame materials over time. Always opt for gentle soaps or specialized lens cleaners to keep your sunglasses in good shape.
Don’t Use Your Shirt
It’s tempting to grab the nearest fabric to clean your sunglasses, but clothing, especially cotton, is abrasive. Even soft fabrics contain dust or dirt that can scratch lenses, leaving you with damaged sunglasses.
No Paper Towels or Tissues
Similar to shirts, paper towels and tissues have fibers that can cause tiny scratches on your lenses. Over time, these scratches can accumulate, reducing the clarity of your lenses.
Avoid Exposing Sunglasses to High Heat
Don’t leave your sunglasses on a dashboard or in direct sunlight for extended periods. Heat can warp frames and damage lens coatings, leading to discoloration or peeling.
Watch Out for Saltwater
If you’ve been wearing your sunglasses at the beach, saltwater can leave a residue that’s tough to remove and may damage coatings. Always rinse your sunglasses in fresh water after exposure to saltwater.
Caring for the Frames
While the lenses are typically the main focus, the frames also deserve attention, especially if you want your sunglasses to last.
Plastic and metal frames both have their unique challenges. Plastic frames, for starters, can become brittle over time, particularly when exposed to extreme heat or sunlight. To clean plastic frames, follow the same steps as above, but be mindful not to bend or warp them during the cleaning process.
Metal frames, on the other hand, are more durable but prone to tarnishing or rusting if exposed to moisture for long periods. After cleaning, ensure the frames are completely dry before storing them to prevent corrosion.
Maintaining Sunglass Coatings
Many sunglasses, like Melonz, come with special coatings like anti-reflective, polarized, or mirrored layers. These coatings benefit from extra care to avoid damage.
- Anti-Reflective Coatings: Use only lens-safe cleaners and avoid rubbing harshly, as these coatings are more prone to scratching and wear.
- Polarized Lenses: Polarized coatings reduce glare and are often delicate. Never use household cleaners or chemicals on them. Stick to water and mild soap, or dedicated polarized lens cleaner.
- Mirrored Lenses: Mirrored lenses offer a stylish touch but can peel if exposed to abrasive materials or harsh chemicals. Gentle cleaning with microfiber cloths and specialized cleaners will keep these looking their best.
Sunglass Maintenance: The Melonz Difference
Every pair of Melonz comes with a soft case made of microfiber cleaning cloth to help keep them in pristine condition. And just for added peace of mind, our sunglasses are also designed with an emphasis on flexibility and durability, from scratch-resistant lenses to frames built to withstand the demands of everyday life. But even the most durable sunglasses need a little TLC from time to time, and following the steps above will ensure your Melonz shades stay in tip-top shape for years to come.
Ready to experience premium eyewear that lasts? Explore Melonz’s full range of sunglasses today!