Scratched glasses are a universal mood killer. One moment you’re gazing at the world in HD clarity, and the next, a pesky scratch is looming in your field of vision. Whether it’s a tiny scuff or a deep gouge, scratches are no fun.
But fear not: you don’t have to resign yourself to a scratched-up view forever. While not all scratches are fixable (spoiler alert: some require professional help, and replacing the lens is the only way to completely get rid of them), there are ways to minimize the damage, protect your lenses, and even prevent future scratches altogether. Consider this your ultimate guide to dealing with dinged-up glasses.
Step 1: Assess the Damage
First things first: before you jump into rescue mode, you need to know what you’re working with. Not all scratches are created equal, and your game plan depends on the severity of the damage.
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Superficial Scratches: These are minor surface-level scuffs that don’t interfere with your vision too much. Think of them as the paper cuts of the glasses world: annoying but manageable.
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Deep Scratches: These go beyond the lens coating and into the lens material itself. Deep scratches may make it hard to see clearly so its recommended to seek professional help.
Pro Tip: If the scratch is accompanied by a crack, or if your lenses have visible chips, head straight to a professional.
Step 2: Prep for Repair
Before attempting any scratch-removal methods, make sure your glasses are squeaky-clean. Residual dirt or debris can worsen the problem if rubbed into the lens during the process.
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Rinse your glasses under lukewarm water to remove any dust or debris. (Hot water can damage the lens coating, so keep it cool).
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Use a lens-safe cleaning solution or a drop of mild dish soap. Gently massage it over the lenses with your fingers, then rinse.
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Dry with a microfiber cloth. This is crucial – avoid paper towels, tissues, and even your favorite T-shirt, which can scratch your lenses even more.
Pro Tip: The Internet is full of promises when it comes to fixing scratches, but as skeptical minds know, the Internet is not always right. At-home hacks all involve wearing away the coating on your lenses until the scratch is less visible, which isn’t something we can endorse, so be weary of any DIY hacks you see online.
Step 3: Know When to Call in the Pros
If you’re dealing with deep scratches, it’s time to bring in reinforcements.
Here’s when to seek professional help like your eye doctor:
- The scratch is very deep and distorts your vision significantly.
- You’re worried about damaging expensive lens coatings.
What can professionals do? Opticians can’t magically erase scratches, but they can replace scratched lenses or recommend coatings that will help your glasses resist future damage. If your glasses are still under warranty, you might even be eligible for a free replacement.
If you’re sporting a pair of eyebobs, we offer a Lens Replacement service that makes replacing scratched-up lenses a piece of cake.
Step 4: Prevent Scratches Before They Happen
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure (or in this case, a shiny new pair of lenses). Here’s how to keep your glasses scratch-free in the future.
- Invest in scratch-resistant coatings. Many modern lenses come with built-in scratch-resistant layers (yes, including eyebobs). If your current lenses don’t have one, ask your optician about upgrading during your next visit.
- Store your glasses properly. Always use a hard case when you’re not wearing your glasses and never place your lenses face-down on a surface.
- Clean with care. Use a microfiber cloth and lens-safe cleaning solution to keep your eye candy looking as fresh as the day you got it. Make sure you avoid using your sleeve or random tissues to buff your pair in a pinch.
- Be gentle. Your glasses are tougher than they look, but they’re not indestructible, so handle with care. Avoid tossing them into bags or leaving them in precarious places.
Dealing with scratches on your glasses can feel like a hassle, but with the right approach, you can minimize the damage and keep your lenses looking sharp.
Remember, prevention is your best friend. Treat your glasses with care, and they’ll return the favor by keeping your view crystal-clear, helping you not only see good, but look good, too.
