As the saying goes, if you take care of your things they take care of you and your sunglasses are no exception. It stands to reason that your sunglasses are protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays every day so we need to make sure we’re taking care of them. When lenses collect dust, sweat, sunscreen, salt spray, and grime, vision suffers and lens coatings break down faster. Cleaning sunglasses the wrong way is one of the most common causes of scratched lenses and damaged coatings. This guide explains how to clean sunglasses properly, what products are safe, what mistakes to avoid, and how to keep your eyewear performing at its best for years.
Time required: ~5 minutes
Estimated cost: ~$10
Supplies: Mild dish soap, clean water
Tools: Microfiber cloth (anti-fog spray optional)
How to Clean Sunglasses Properly (Step-by-Step)
Step-by-Step Method to Clean Sunglass Lenses Safely
A scratch on your lenses is far from the ideal outcome so here the most effective and safe method:
1.) Wash your hands first: Use a mild, lotion-free soap. Oils and grit on your hands can transfer directly to the lenses.
2.) Rinse lenses with lukewarm water: Hold your glasses or sunglasses under a gentle stream to remove dust, sand, and salt before touching the lenses. Avoid hot water, which can damage coatings and warp frames.
3.) Apply mild dish soap: Place a small drop of gentle, additive-free dish soap on each lens.
4.) Clean using your fingertips: Gently rub lenses, frames, nose pads, and arms using your fingers. Avoid nails, sponges, or brushes.
5.) Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean microfiber cloth: Make sure all soap residue is removed to prevent streaking. Use a dedicated microfiber cloth to absorb moisture and prevent scratches. Wash microfiber cloths regularly so they don’t trap debris.
This method works for sunglasses, prescription glasses, polarized lenses, and blue light blocking glasses.
Should You Clean Sunglasses Wet or Dry?
Always clean sunglasses wet first. Dry wiping grinds microscopic debris into the lens surface, creating fine scratches over time. Dry cleaning should only be used when no water is available and ideally with a clean microfiber cloth.
How to Clean Sunglasses When You’re On the Go
We get it, you can’t always have access to water so if you don’t have access to a sink:
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Carry a microfiber cloth in your case, bag, and car
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Use lens safe cleaning spray or pre-moistened lens wipes approved for coated lenses
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Never wipe lenses that have visible grit or sand
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This creates fine scratches overtime
What Cleaning Products Are Safe for Sunglasses?
What Cleaning Solutions Are Safe for Sunglass Lenses?
Cleaning solutions are far from a one size fits all solution. Every individual prefers a different cleaner from all natural to the run of the mill dish soap. Below are some safe options worth including:
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Mild, additive free dish soap
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Bonus: all natural or organic is best
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Lens-specific cleaning sprays
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Approved pre moistened lens wipes
The biggest consideration in all of this is removing oils or unwanted residue while ensuring the cleaning material does not interfere with the integrity of UV or anti glare coatings. The less ingredients a soap has will likely be better.
Can You Use Dish Soap, Alcohol, or Vinegar on Sunglasses?
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Dish soap: Yes, if mild and free of lotions or citrus additives
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Rubbing alcohol: Not recommended unless explicitly labeled lens-safe
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Vinegar, ammonia, glass cleaner: Never. All of these strip lens coatings and UV protection. You will effectively shorten the lifespan of your sunglasses by using these.
Ingredients to Avoid in Lens Cleaners
Avoid cleaners containing:
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Ammonia
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Acetone
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Bleach
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Strong solvents
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Citrus-based additives
How to Prevent Scratches and Lens Damage
What Causes Scratches on Sunglass Lenses?
As we mentioned, if you take care of what takes care of you then your sunglasses will be living large with you for a long time to come. More often than not scratches come by way of:
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Wiping lenses without rinsing first
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Using shirts, paper towels, or tissues
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Dirty microfiber cloths
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Improper storage in pockets or bags
Can Scratched Sunglasses Be Fixed?
In most cases, no sunglass scratches cannot be fixed which makes proper care even more important in prolonging the life of your precious shades! Polishing lenses often removes protective coatings and worsens optical clarity. If scratches affect vision or comfort, lens replacement is usually the best option assuming the frames are still solid.
Does Scratching Affect UV Protection?
Minor surface scratches may not block UV protection, but deeper scratches can distort vision and compromise coatings. If clarity is reduced, replacement is recommended especially if you’re into action sports or lead an adventurous lifestyle.
How to Clean Different Types of Sunglasses
How to Clean Polarized Sunglasses Safely
Polarized lenses contain specialized filters that are sensitive to heat and chemicals. Use lukewarm water, mild soap, and a microfiber cloth only. Be sure to avoid the above mentioned ingredients like vinegar, ammonia or glass cleaners.
How to Clean Mirrored, Anti-Reflective, and Coated Lenses
Coated lenses scratch more easily than standard lenses. Avoid household cleaners, alcohol, and dry wiping. Gentle cleaning and proper storage are essential for long term care.
Glass vs Plastic vs Polycarbonate Lenses
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Glass: More scratch-resistant, heavier
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Plastic: Lightweight, more scratch prone
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Polycarbonate: Impact resistant, coating sensitive
All require gentle cleaning to preserve coatings.
How to Clean Sunglass Frames
Wash frames, hinges, and nose pads with mild soap and water to remove sweat, sunscreen, and salt buildup. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a microfiber cloth.
How Often Should You Clean Sunglasses?
Daily vs Weekly Cleaning
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Light cleaning as needed throughout the day
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Deep cleaning weekly or after heavy exposure to sweat, saltwater, or sunscreen
Frequent gentle cleaning helps prevent buildup that can erode lens coatings over time.
Common Sunglasses Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Use Clothing or Paper Towels
Fabric fibers and paper products trap dust that scratches lenses.
Don’t Use Saliva
Saliva is acidic and ineffective as it can damage lens coatings and leaves residue behind.
Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals or Hot Water
These break down UV and anti-glare coatings and may warp frames.
Tools & Accessories for Sunglasses Cleaning
Are Microfiber Cloths the Best Option?
Yes, especially when it’s a freshly cleaned microfiber cloth. You’ll notice it’s time to replace microfiber cloths once they stop absorbing grime or begin leaving lint behind. Better to replace these than to need to replace your shades.
Are Ultrasonic Cleaners Safe for Sunglasses?
They can help clean frames but may loosen coatings or adhesives if used improperly. Use with caution. In many instances this is probably overkill. Simplicity truly is the key to brilliance.
What’s in a Proper Sunglasses Cleaning Kit?
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Clean microfiber cloth
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Lens-safe spray
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Protective case
How to Store Sunglasses Properly
Best Storage Practices
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Store sunglasses in a hard case or microfiber sleeve
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Place lenses facing upward
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Avoid leaving sunglasses loose in bags, pockets, or on car dashboards
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Consider storing your sunglasses in the center console of your vehicle in a microfiber sleeve or hardcase with a microfiber cloth inside of it.
Cleaning Sunglasses Correctly
Cleaning sunglasses correctly takes only a few minutes, but it dramatically extends their lifespan. Lukewarm water, mild soap, and a clean microfiber cloth protect lens clarity and preserves UV protection. Avoid harsh chemicals, dry wiping, and poor storage habits, and your sunglasses will continue performing as designed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do you clean sunglasses without scratching them?
- Rinse lenses with lukewarm water to remove grit, clean gently with mild dish soap using your fingertips, and dry with a clean microfiber cloth. Avoid clothing, paper towels, and household cleaners.
Q: What is the best way to clean lenses on glasses?
- The same method applies to glasses and sunglasses: wash hands, rinse lenses, use mild dish soap, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a microfiber cloth.
Q: Can you use Windex on polarized sunglasses?
- No. Glass cleaners, vinegar, and ammonia damage lens coatings and reduce UV and glare protection. Use only lens-safe cleaners or mild dish soap.
Q: How often should I replace a microfiber cloth?
- Replace it once it no longer absorbs grime effectively or begins leaving lint on lenses.
