Scratching, cracking, or shattering eyeglasses can be devastating. Unless you also happen to wear contact lenses, breaking your glasses can essentially halt everything until you repair or replace them. Even if you have an old pair to wear in the meantime, the lenses may no longer be the right prescription, which makes essential tasks like driving impossible. Here, an optometrist from Oklahoma’s South Tulsa Optical shares a few tips for handling your eyeglasses to avoid mishaps.

How to Keep Your Eyeglasses in Perfect Condition

1. Store Cases Strategically Around the House   

Put a hard case in every room where you’re likely to take off your glasses. This might include the bedroom, bathroom, garage, patio, or living spaces. Think about where you often place your frames when you switch them out for prescription sunglasses, too.  A sturdy case is the first line of defense against scratches and nicks, and it can make it easier to find your glasses back. 

2. Rinse the Lenses Before Wiping Them Down 

Always rinse the lenses with water before wiping them down because dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate over the course of the day. If you don’t rinse the lens first, these abrasive particles will leave scratches behind. 

3. Avoid Using Household Cleaners 

Since Windex leaves a streak-free shine on mirrors and windows, it’s only reasonable to assume it will do the same on glasses. Household cleaners like Windex contain ammonia, though, which can damage anti-glare coatings. Stick to cleaners designed specifically for eyeglasses instead.  

4. Wear Them on Your Nose or Not at All 

Do you ever rest your glasses on the top of your head and leave them there? If you wear prescription sunglasses, for example, you might slide them up onto your head until you need them again. This can warp the frames over time, though, and is generally a bad idea. 

5. Don’t Get Creative With Cleaners 

Even people who would never think to use household cleaners like bleach or ammonia on their lenses might opt to try natural alternatives like vinegar or even saliva. Saliva typically contains abrasive food particles, though, and like other cleaners, vinegar can damage coatings. 

Unfortunately, even if you follow all the above tips, accidents still happen. If you need new eyewear, turn to an optometrist at South Tulsa Optical. This optometry practice is proud to provide comprehensive vision care for patients throughout all of Tulsa County, OK. Their services include laser eye surgery, professional eye tests, and contact lens fittings. Check out the practice online to see how they can improve your vision health, or call (918) 494-0351 to make an appointment with an optometrist today.