How Important Is It to Regularly Clean Your Glasses?

When was the last time you cleaned your glasses? If you can’t remember, it might be time to make this a daily habit. Keeping your specs clean isn’t just about aesthetics neglecting this simple task could impact your vision, skin, and overall health.

What Happens If You Don’t Clean Your Glasses

A little dust or smudge might seem harmless, but dirty glasses can lead to more significant problems than you might think.

1. Reduced Vision Clarity

Even small particles of dirt can scatter light and create blur. According to Shane Kannarr, OD, an optometrist in Pittsburg, Kansas, dirty lenses reduce the amount of light entering your eyes, making it harder to see clearly.

2. Increased Risk of Scratches

Dust and debris that sit on your lenses can cause tiny scuffs or scratches over time. These blemishes not only worsen clarity but can also lead to glare or halos, especially in bright light.

3. Skin Irritation or Breakouts

Throughout the day, dirt and oils from your face transfer onto your glasses, especially around the nose pads and ear hooks. Wearing unclean frames can reintroduce grime to your skin, potentially causing irritation, breakouts, or even sores, Dr. Kannarr warns.

4. Potential Infections

Your glasses can harbor bacteria, and the risk is more serious than you might think. A small 2018 study published in PLOS One found over 200 types of bacteria on just 21 pairs of glasses, including Staphylococcus, a germ known to cause infections. Touching your eyes after handling dirty glasses could transfer harmful microbes, increasing your risk of eye infections.

How Often Should You Clean Your Glasses?

Experts recommend cleaning your lenses at least once a day, with additional touch-ups as needed if they become visibly smudged. Frames don’t need as much attention but should be cleaned every few days to remove oil and grime buildup.

The Best Way to Clean Your Glasses

Follow these steps for spotless lenses and frames without causing damage:

For Lenses:

• Use an alcohol-free cleaning spray designed for glasses.

• Wipe the lenses dry with a microfiber lens cloth, which is gentle and effective.

• For quick on-the-go cleaning, a microfiber cloth alone can suffice.

For Frames:

• Rinse frames under warm water to remove dirt.

• Dry them with a microfiber cloth.

• If your nose pads are particularly grimy, visit your eye doctor for an ultrasonic cleaning.

What Not to Use

Avoid these common cleaning mistakes:

• Paper towels or tissues: They can scratch your lenses.

• Saliva: Contains oils that could damage lenses.

• Hand soap or dish soap: Many contain abrasives that can harm the lens coating.

The Takeaway

Cleaning your glasses is a simple, low-effort routine that pays off with sharper vision, longer-lasting lenses, and healthier skin and eyes. Failing to do so can lead to temporary vision issues, scratched lenses, and even skin or eye infections.

Make daily cleanings a part of your routine, and your glasses and your health will thank you.

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