The Dos and Don’ts of Cleaning Coated Eyeglass Lenses

Maintaining the pristine condition of eyeglasses, especially those with coated lenses, is crucial for optimal vision and eye health. Incorporating proper lens maintenance into your daily routine can significantly enhance the lifespan and efficiency of your spectacles. It’s not just about preserving visual clarity but also about safeguarding your investment in high-quality eyewear. Our resident eye doctor at Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic shares more insight.

Understanding the Importance of Anti-Reflective Coatings

Anti-reflective coatings are not just an additional layer on your lenses; they are integrated into your lenses to reduce glare, improve vision, and diminish eye strain, particularly under challenging light conditions. This innovative coating is beneficial for a variety of activities from driving at night, and working on digital devices to reducing eye fatigue in brightly lit conditions.

The Correct Approach to Cleaning Coated Lenses

Cleaning your glasses doesn’t have to be a complicated process. Here are simple, effective steps to keep your coated lenses spotless:

  1. Preparation Is Key. Always start with washing your hands thoroughly to remove any dirt or grease that could transfer to the lenses.

  2. Rinse With Lukewarm Water. Before applying any cleaning agent, gently rinse your glasses under lukewarm water. This step helps to remove dust and prevent scratches during cleaning.

  3. Use a Gentle Cleanser. Apply a small amount of lotion-free dishwashing soap on the lenses. Using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners can damage the anti-reflective coating.

  4. Dry With a Microfiber Cloth. After rinsing the soap off, carefully dry the lenses with a clean microfiber cloth. This type of cloth is gentle on your lenses and helps avoid scratching.

Practices To Avoid When Cleaning Your Eyeglasses

Our professional eye doctor points out several cleaning habits that can inadvertently damage the lens coatings and compromise the clarity of your spectacles:

  • Avoid Using Clothing or Tissues. Cleaning your lenses with the fabric of your clothes or paper-based products can scratch and degrade the coating.

  • Steer Clear of Harsh Chemicals. Household cleaners, particularly those containing ammonia, bleach, or acetone, can strip away the anti-reflective coating on your lenses.

  • Beware of Hot Water. Exposing your eyeglasses to hot water can damage the anti-reflective coating. Stick to lukewarm water instead.

Contact Us Today!

Protecting the anti-reflective coating on your eyeglasses is fundamental to enjoying the benefits of enhanced visual acuity and comfort. By adhering to the recommended practices and avoiding common cleaning misconceptions, residents of Lynnwood, WA can ensure their coated lenses remain in top condition for years to come.

When in doubt, consulting with our trusted eye doctor at Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic is your best bet for keeping your vision clear and your eyes healthy. Contact us today at (425) 771-8472 (Lynnwood, WA) or (425) 485-0430 (Bothell, WA) to schedule an appointment. You can also reach us online and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. We serve residents in Redmond, Kirkland, and the surrounding WA communities.