Good quality eye glasses can last up to two or three years. However, your favourite pair of eye glasses can only last that long with proper handling and care. Even the best quality of eye glasses begins to scratch after a short while if not handled and stored properly. After spending so much time picking out the right frames, waiting for the lenses to be fitted, and parting with some cash, you want your glasses to stay in shape for long. The tips below will help you preserve your eye glasses longer saving you the costs and stress of a new pair for a while.
- Lenses up, frames down. Every time you place your glasses on a table ensure that the frames are on the surface and the lenses are up. The position prevents your lenses from getting scratched by the table’s surface.
Putting your glasses on the table upside down, with the frames open also works to prevent scratches on the lenses.
Alternatively, (especially for children) purchase a chain (here) and keep them around your neck.
- Use both Hands. Always use both hands to put on your eye glasses and to take them off. Using both hands prevents any misalignment of the frames. Putting them on your head, also causes misalignment by widening and loosening the frames.
- A case or Pouch is Your Friend. Glasses easily scratch, bend or break if stored negligently. Putting them in your bag, pocket or purse without the pouch increases the risks of bending and breaking them.
Invest in a hard shelled case to store away your glasses when you are not wearing them. Be attentive of where you place your glasses if you want them to last longer.
- Invest in a cleaning cloth. Breathing on your glasses and wiping them is the most common and convenient way to clean your glasses. However, if you want them to last longer invest in a microfiber or soft cotton cloth to wipe your glasses. Using the edge of your cloth, a towel, or other fabrics might scratch your lenses or leave them with lint or residue. Other cleaning tips include
- Always rinse your glasses with water before wiping them to prevent any dirt particles from scratching the lenses
- Grip the glasses by the bridge o the nose when cleaning them to avoid bending of misalignment
- Do not use tissue or napkins the look soft, but their surface texture is too rough for lenses
- Avoid washing your eye glasses with bar soap, detergent and other cleaning agents with strong chemicals that are harmful to lenses and their coating.
- Be Careful Where You Place Your Glasses. Look out for edges where your glasses can easily tip over and fall. Avoid placing your glasses on a seat. Avoid leaving them in hot places such as the car, or close to direct sunlight.
- Anti-scratch coat: Enquire about adding an anti-scratch coat on your lenses as you purchase them.An anti-scratch coat is especially helpful for children’s glasses. Your glasses will last longer before they start to scratch.
