That annoying, sometimes iridescent, often greasy film clinging to your eyeglass lenses is most likely a combination of skin oils, dust, pollen, cosmetic residue, and environmental pollutants. Understanding its origin and proper cleaning methods are key to maintaining clear vision and extending the life of your lenses.
The Culprit: A Microscopic Ecosystem
Our eyeglasses are constantly exposed to a cocktail of substances that contribute to this frustrating film. It’s not just one thing; it’s a complex interaction of various factors. Understanding these factors allows us to take proactive steps in keeping our lenses clean.
- Sebum and Skin Oils: Our skin naturally produces sebum, an oily substance that helps keep our skin moisturized. However, when we touch our faces, or when sebum naturally migrates to our eyeglasses, it creates a sticky base for other particles to adhere to.
- Dust and Pollen: Airborne particles like dust, pollen, and even microscopic debris from clothing become attracted to the oily surface of the lenses. This is especially prevalent during allergy season or in dusty environments.
- Cosmetic Residue: Makeup, lotions, and hair products contain oils and chemicals that easily transfer to eyeglasses when applied near the face or during contact. Even seemingly innocuous products can leave a subtle film.
- Environmental Pollutants: Depending on your location, your eyeglasses may be exposed to environmental pollutants like smog, smoke, and industrial residue. These particles often have a greasy or sticky consistency that readily adheres to lenses.
- Hair Products: Sprays, gels, and waxes used on hair can easily become airborne and land on eyeglasses, creating a sticky residue that attracts more dirt.
Cleaning Your Lenses: A Step-by-Step Guide
The good news is that removing this film is relatively straightforward with the right techniques. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, which can damage the lens coatings.
The Gentle Approach: Soap and Water
This is the recommended method for most types of eyeglasses.
- Wash your hands thoroughly: Ensure your hands are clean to avoid transferring more dirt to your lenses.
- Rinse your eyeglasses under lukewarm water: This will remove loose debris and prevent scratching.
- Apply a small drop of dish soap: Use a mild, grease-cutting dish soap that does not contain lotions or moisturizers.
- Gently rub the lenses and frame: Use your fingertips to gently clean the lenses and frame, paying attention to the areas around the nose pads and hinges.
- Rinse thoroughly: Rinse all traces of soap from the lenses and frame.
- Dry with a microfiber cloth: Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to gently blot the lenses dry. Avoid rubbing, as this can cause scratches.
When Soap Isn’t Enough: Specialized Lens Cleaners
For stubborn buildup or when on the go, specialized lens cleaners are a good option.
- Use a reputable brand: Choose a lens cleaner specifically designed for eyeglasses. These cleaners are formulated to be gentle on lens coatings.
- Spray sparingly: Apply a small amount of lens cleaner to both sides of the lenses.
- Wipe with a microfiber cloth: Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to wipe the lenses dry.
- Avoid paper towels or tissues: These materials can be abrasive and scratch the lenses.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Lens Cleaning
- Do wash your eyeglasses daily, especially if you wear makeup or spend time outdoors.
- Do use a microfiber cloth specifically designed for cleaning lenses.
- Do store your eyeglasses in a case when you’re not wearing them.
- Don’t use your shirt, paper towels, or tissues to clean your lenses.
- Don’t use household cleaners, alcohol, or other harsh chemicals.
- Don’t rub your lenses vigorously.
Protecting Your Lenses: Prevention is Key
Preventing the buildup of film is often easier than removing it.
- Avoid touching your face: Minimize touching your face to prevent transferring oils to your eyeglasses.
- Apply makeup carefully: Be mindful when applying makeup and avoid getting products on your eyeglasses.
- Clean your eyeglasses regularly: Establish a daily cleaning routine to prevent buildup.
- Use a protective coating: Consider adding a scratch-resistant coating to your lenses to protect them from damage.
- Proper Storage: Always store your glasses in their case when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Why do my glasses get dirty so quickly, even after cleaning them?
This could be due to environmental factors, such as living in a dusty area or using oily skin products. Regular cleaning, proper storage, and potentially a lens coating that repels oil can help.
FAQ 2: Can I use my breath to fog up the lenses before wiping them?
While it may seem like a quick fix, breathing on your lenses can introduce more bacteria and moisture, potentially worsening the film buildup over time. It’s best to stick to soap and water or a lens cleaner.
FAQ 3: What is the best type of microfiber cloth to use?
Look for a high-quality microfiber cloth specifically designed for eyeglasses. These cloths are made of tightly woven fibers that won’t scratch the lenses. Avoid using cloths that have been used for other cleaning purposes, as they may contain abrasive particles.
FAQ 4: Is it safe to use rubbing alcohol to clean my eyeglasses?
Generally, it is not recommended to use rubbing alcohol, especially on lenses with coatings. Alcohol can damage or remove the coatings over time. If absolutely necessary, use a diluted isopropyl alcohol solution (70% alcohol, 30% water) sparingly and always dry the lenses immediately with a microfiber cloth. However, soap and water or a dedicated lens cleaner are safer options.
FAQ 5: How often should I replace my microfiber cloth?
Replace your microfiber cloth every few months, or more often if it becomes visibly dirty or starts to leave streaks on your lenses.
FAQ 6: What are anti-reflective (AR) coatings, and do they make glasses easier to clean?
Anti-reflective (AR) coatings reduce glare and improve vision, especially at night. While they can make lenses appear cleaner by reducing reflections, they don’t necessarily make them easier to clean. In fact, they can be more delicate, requiring careful cleaning techniques.
FAQ 7: Can sweat contribute to the film on my lenses?
Yes, sweat is a significant contributor to the film on your lenses. Sweat contains salts and oils that can leave a residue. Clean your eyeglasses more frequently after exercising or sweating.
FAQ 8: Are there any specific cleaning products I should avoid?
Avoid using household cleaners, bleach, vinegar, ammonia, or any products containing abrasive ingredients. These chemicals can damage the lens coatings and even scratch the lenses.
FAQ 9: My glasses have nose pads that seem to attract dirt. How do I clean them?
Use a cotton swab dipped in a solution of mild soap and water to gently clean around the nose pads. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean cloth.
FAQ 10: My eyeglass lenses have a strange, rainbow-like sheen. What is that?
This rainbow-like sheen is typically caused by damaged anti-reflective coating. It can be due to harsh cleaning products, scratches, or simply the natural degradation of the coating over time. If this happens, consult with your eye doctor or optician about replacing the lenses.
FAQ 11: Does the type of eyeglass frame material affect how dirty the lenses get?
Not directly, but the frame material can indirectly affect how often you clean your lenses. For example, frames that sit closer to your face may collect more skin oils and sweat, requiring more frequent cleaning.
FAQ 12: Can I get my eyeglasses professionally cleaned?
Yes, most opticians offer professional eyeglass cleaning services. They have specialized equipment, such as ultrasonic cleaners, that can effectively remove stubborn dirt and grime without damaging the lenses. This is a good option for deep cleaning or if you’re concerned about damaging your lenses yourself. Regularly visiting for a professional cleaning is an excellent way to maintain the longevity of your eyeglasses.