Best Way to Clean Eyeglasses at Home Without Damaging Them

The safest home-cleaning method for eyeglasses is usually the method recommended by your optician or lens manufacturer. Modern lenses may have anti-reflective, scratch-resistant, blue-light or other coatings that require specific care.

A gentle everyday method

1. Wash and dry your hands so you do not transfer oil to the lenses.
2. Rinse the glasses with clean lukewarm water to remove loose particles.
3. Use only a small amount of coating-safe cleaner or mild product approved by the manufacturer.
4. Clean gently with clean fingertips when permitted.
5. Rinse and dry with a clean microfiber cloth.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Wiping dusty lenses while dry
• Using paper towels, clothing or abrasive fabric
• Applying household glass cleaner, bleach, acetone or strong alcohol unless explicitly approved
• Using very hot water
• Pressing hard on damaged frames or loose lenses

Cleaning nose pads and hinges

Nose pads and hinges collect oil and residue. Use a soft, approved brush or cloth around these areas without forcing the mechanism. If a screw is loose, the frame is cracked or a pad is unstable, visit an optician before deep cleaning.

Can an ultrasonic cleaner help?

It can move water around frame joints and nose pads, but only when the frame, lenses and coatings are approved for immersion and ultrasonic cleaning. Some coated lenses, glued components, damaged frames or decorative finishes may be unsuitable. Read our glasses compatibility guide.

When to ask an optician

Get professional advice if coatings are peeling, the lens is crazed, the frame is bent, the item has electronics or you cannot identify the materials. Do not rely on “waterproof” or “scratch resistant” as proof of ultrasonic compatibility.

When your eyewear maker confirms compatibility, the NudgePickr Ultrasonic Jewellery Cleaner can help clean around small frame details.