Bruno Pugh
Sunglasses are not just a fashion statement; they also protect your eyes from UV rays. However, scratches on the lenses can affect clarity and compromise your eyewear’s functionality. Understanding how to maintain and care for your sunglasses properly can help prolong their lifespan and keep them looking new. To assist you, we’ve provided a short guide on removing scratches from your sunglasses lenses.
Assess the Scratch Severity
Before you attempt to remove scratches, determine the severity of the damage. Light scratches are fixable with simple methods, but deep scratches might require professional repair. Run your fingernail gently across the lens. If it catches, the scratch is likely too deep for at-home remedies.
Gather Necessary Materials
You’ll need non-abrasive toothpaste, a soft microfiber cloth, baking soda, and a small bowl. Make sure all materials are clean to prevent further damaging the lenses. Having everything ready before starting makes the process smoother and reduces the risk of mistakes.
Clean the Lenses
Start by thoroughly cleaning the sunglasses with warm water and mild dish soap. This step removes dirt and debris and prevents additional scratches. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe the lenses dry so they are completely clean before proceeding with scratch removal.
Apply Toothpaste to the Scratch
Squeeze a small blob of non-abrasive toothpaste onto the lens and focus on the scratched area. Non-abrasive toothpaste won’t further damage the lenses. Now spread the toothpaste evenly using your fingertip to cover the scratch completely, but avoid excessive application.
Buff the Lens with a Soft Cloth
Using a clean, soft microfiber cloth, gently buff the toothpaste into the lens in a circular motion. Apply light pressure to the scratched area. Continue buffing for about 30 seconds to one minute. This motion helps to polish the lens surface and reduce the appearance of scratches.
Rinse and Dry the Lenses
After buffing, rinse the sunglasses under lukewarm water to remove the toothpaste, ensuring all residue is washed away. Gently dry the lenses with a clean, soft cloth, and check if the scratch has diminished. If there are still scratches, you may need to repeat the process or try another method.
Try Using Brass Polish
To remove shallow scratches from sunglasses, apply acetone-free brass polish on the scratched area. It must be acetone-free, as acetone can damage lenses. Gently rub a small amount onto the lenses using a soft cloth. Brass polish helps reduce debris and minimize scratch visibility.
Is Sunscreen Effective At Removing Scratches from Lenses?
Many guides will tell you that using sunscreen to remove scratches from your sunglasses lenses is perfectly safe. However, if you have mirrored sunglasses, the sunscreen may remove the mirrored layer which alters the entire look of your sunglasses. That said, avoid using chemical-based products.
Is Baking Soda Effective?
There are mixed reviews using the baking soda method when removing scratches from sunglasses lenses. Some say that it can remove the scratches, while others suggest that it can cause more damage to your eyewear. Baking soda is an abrasive product, so it may not be suitable for removing scratches.
Use a Scratch-Repair Kit
If home remedies are ineffective, consider purchasing a scratch-repair kit specifically designed for sunglasses or eyeglasses. These kits often include a mild cleaner and polish and a special polishing cloth. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a scratch kit for the best results.
Avoid Abrasive Cleaners
When removing scratches, you should stay away from harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Products like window cleaner, bleach, or acetone can damage the lenses, which makes scratches worse. Stick to mild cleaning solutions and non-abrasive materials to protect the integrity of your sunglasses.
Consider a Professional Repair Service
For deep or persistent scratches, it might be best to consult a professional. Optical shops often provide lens resurfacing or scratch removal services. Although this may be more expensive, it ensures that your sunglasses are properly treated and can extend their lifespan.
Prevent Future Scratches
You can avoid future scratches by storing your sunglasses in a protective case when not in use. Don’t place your glasses with lenses down on surfaces, and clean them regularly with a soft cloth. Taking these precautions will help maintain the lenses’ clarity and prolong the life of your sunglasses.
Use Lens Protection Films
Consider applying a protective film to your sunglasses’ lenses. These films are designed to prevent scratches and can be easily applied at home. They are transparent and do not affect vision. These protective films add a layer of protection without compromising the look of your sunglasses.
Replace the Lenses if Necessary
Replacing the lenses might be the best option if scratches are too deep or numerous to repair. Many sunglass brands offer replacement lenses, allowing you to keep your favorite frames. Make sure your replacement lenses are installed correctly to avoid damaging the frames.