Say Goodbye to Scratched Sunglasses: How to Repair Scratched Sunglasses and Keep Them Looking New
What To Know
- You’ll need a soft cloth, a polishing compound (like toothpaste or baking soda), and a small amount of water.
- An optician or a specialized repair shop can use advanced techniques like lens replacement or resurfacing to restore your sunglasses.
- You can tell if your sunglasses are polarized by looking at a reflective surface, like a car windshield or a body of water.
Sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory; they’re essential for protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays. But those stylish shades can easily get scratched, ruining their clarity and aesthetic appeal. Don’t despair! This guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques on how to repair scratched sunglasses, bringing them back to their former glory.
Understanding Scratches and Their Impact
Before diving into repair methods, it’s important to understand the nature of scratches and their impact on your sunglasses. Scratches are essentially tiny grooves or imperfections on the lens surface. These imperfections can distort your vision, making it difficult to see clearly, especially in bright sunlight. Scratches can also make your sunglasses look dull and worn, diminishing their aesthetic appeal.
Assessing the Damage
The first step in repairing scratched sunglasses is to assess the severity of the damage. Here’s what to look for:
- Depth: Shallow scratches are often superficial and can be addressed with polishing techniques. Deep scratches, on the other hand, may require more advanced methods.
- Location: Scratches on the outer surface of the lens are easier to fix than those on the inner surface.
- Lens Material: The type of lens material (plastic, polycarbonate, or glass) will determine the best repair approach.
Polishing Techniques for Minor Scratches
For minor scratches, polishing is often the most effective solution. Here’s how to do it:
- Materials: You’ll need a soft cloth, a polishing compound (like toothpaste or baking soda), and a small amount of water.
- Process:
- Apply a small amount of polishing compound to the cloth.
- Gently rub the cloth in a circular motion over the scratched area.
- Continue polishing until the scratches are less noticeable.
- Rinse the lens with water and dry it thoroughly.
Using a Scratch Remover Kit
Scratch remover kits are commercially available and offer a more targeted approach to repairing scratches. These kits typically contain a polishing compound, a felt pad, and instructions.
- Process:
- Follow the instructions provided with the kit.
- Apply the polishing compound to the felt pad.
- Gently rub the pad over the scratched area in a circular motion.
- Continue polishing until the scratches are less noticeable.
Dealing with Deep Scratches
Deep scratches are more challenging to repair and may require professional help. However, you can try the following techniques:
- Sanding: Use fine-grit sandpaper (around 1000 grit) to gently sand down the scratch. This method is best for plastic lenses.
- Buffing: Use a buffing wheel and a polishing compound to smooth out the scratch. This method is suitable for both plastic and glass lenses.
When to Seek Professional Help
If the scratches are too deep, extensive, or located on the inner surface of the lens, it’s best to seek professional help. An optician or a specialized repair shop can use advanced techniques like lens replacement or resurfacing to restore your sunglasses.
Preventing Future Scratches
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to prevent scratches on your sunglasses:
- Use a case: Always store your sunglasses in a protective case when not in use.
- Clean them regularly: Regularly clean your sunglasses with a microfiber cloth and a lens cleaning solution.
- Avoid harsh surfaces: Don’t place your sunglasses on rough surfaces like tables or dashboards.
- Handle with care: Always handle your sunglasses with care, avoiding dropping or bumping them against hard objects.
Time to Shine: Renewing Your Sunglasses
By following these tips and techniques, you can effectively repair scratched sunglasses and restore their clarity and aesthetic appeal. Remember, prevention is key, so take care of your sunglasses and enjoy their protection and style for years to come.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. How can I tell if my sunglasses are polarized?
You can tell if your sunglasses are polarized by looking at a reflective surface, like a car windshield or a body of water. If the glare is significantly reduced, then your sunglasses are polarized.
2. Can I use a regular cleaning solution to clean my sunglasses?
It’s best to avoid using regular cleaning solutions on your sunglasses, as they can damage the lens coating. Use a specialized lens cleaning solution or a microfiber cloth with distilled water.
3. How often should I clean my sunglasses?
It’s a good idea to clean your sunglasses every day, especially after wearing them in dusty or dirty environments.
4. What is the best way to store my sunglasses?
The best way to store your sunglasses is in a hard case that protects them from scratches, dust, and damage.
5. What should I do if my sunglasses are damaged beyond repair?
If your sunglasses are damaged beyond repair, you can consider replacing them with a new pair. Look for sunglasses made with durable materials and a protective coating to minimize the risk of future scratches.