What To Know
- While it’s tempting to use your shirt or a tissue to quickly clean your lenses, these methods can scratch the delicate surface and compromise their polarization.
- If the lens coatings are peeling or damaged, a professional can assess the damage and recommend a solution.
- Once a week, use a mild soap and water solution to clean the lenses, frames, and hinges.
Polarized sunglasses are a must-have for anyone who spends time outdoors, offering superior glare reduction and enhanced visual clarity. But these high-quality lenses require proper care to maintain their effectiveness and longevity. This blog post will guide you through the essential steps on how to take care of polarized sunglasses, ensuring you enjoy their benefits for years to come.
- 1. Cleaning with Care: The Right Way to Wipe Your Lenses
- 2. The Importance of a Case: Protecting Your Sunglasses from the Elements
- 3. Handling with Care: Avoiding Common Mistakes
- 4. Knowing When to Seek Professional Help: Understanding the Signs of Damage
- 5. Replacing Lenses: When It's Time for a New Pair
1. Cleaning with Care: The Right Way to Wipe Your Lenses
The first rule of thumb is to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. While it’s tempting to use your shirt or a tissue to quickly clean your lenses, these methods can scratch the delicate surface and compromise their polarization. Instead, follow these steps:
- Use a microfiber cloth: Microfiber cloths are specifically designed to gently remove dust, fingerprints, and smudges without scratching the lenses.
- Warm water and mild soap: For a deeper clean, use a few drops of mild dish soap and warm water. Gently rub the lenses with your fingertips and rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Avoid harsh cleaners: Avoid using alcohol, ammonia, or any other harsh chemicals as these can damage the lens coating and affect their polarization.
2. The Importance of a Case: Protecting Your Sunglasses from the Elements
A sturdy case is your sunglasses’ best friend, offering protection from scratches, dust, and accidental drops.
- Choose a hard-shell case: Hard-shell cases provide the most robust protection, keeping your sunglasses safe from impacts and scratches.
- Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the lenses to fade and deteriorate. Store them in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Keep them separate: When traveling, avoid putting your sunglasses in a bag with other items that could potentially scratch the lenses.
3. Handling with Care: Avoiding Common Mistakes
Even with a case, accidental drops can happen. Here’s how to minimize the risk of damage:
- Remove them before putting on or taking off a hat: This simple step prevents the sunglasses from getting snagged on the hat and accidentally falling.
- Don’t leave them on a dashboard: The intense heat from the dashboard can warp the frames and damage the lenses.
- Avoid sitting on them: Accidental sitting on your sunglasses can lead to bending or breaking the frames.
4. Knowing When to Seek Professional Help: Understanding the Signs of Damage
While you can perform regular cleaning and maintenance, some issues require professional attention. Here’s what to look for:
- Scratches on the lenses: If you notice scratches on the lenses, it’s best to take them to a professional for repair or replacement.
- Loose screws or bent frames: A professional can tighten loose screws and adjust bent frames to ensure a secure fit.
- Damaged coatings: If the lens coatings are peeling or damaged, a professional can assess the damage and recommend a solution.
5. Replacing Lenses: When It’s Time for a New Pair
Over time, even with proper care, the lenses of your polarized sunglasses may degrade. Here are some signs that it’s time for a new pair:
- Fading or discoloration: If the lenses start to fade or become discolored, it’s time for a replacement.
- Reduced polarization: If you notice a decrease in the glare-reducing effect, the polarization may have worn off.
- Scratches affecting vision: If scratches on the lenses affect your vision or cause discomfort, it’s time to replace them.
6. Cleaning Your Sunglasses Regularly: A Quick Guide
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the clarity and effectiveness of your polarized sunglasses. Here’s a simple routine:
- Daily cleaning: After each use, gently wipe the lenses with a microfiber cloth to remove dust, fingerprints, and smudges.
- Weekly cleaning: Once a week, use a mild soap and water solution to clean the lenses, frames, and hinges.
- Avoid harsh cleaners: Always avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the lenses or coatings.
The Final Word: Investing in Your Vision
Taking care of your polarized sunglasses is an investment in your vision and overall well-being. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your sunglasses remain in top condition, offering superior glare reduction and visual clarity for years to come.
What You Need to Know
1. Can I use a regular cloth to clean my polarized sunglasses?
No, using a regular cloth or tissue can scratch the lenses and damage the polarization. Always use a microfiber cloth designed for cleaning sunglasses.
2. How often should I replace my polarized sunglasses?
The lifespan of polarized sunglasses varies depending on usage and care. However, it’s generally recommended to replace them every 2-3 years to ensure optimal performance.
3. Can I use alcohol to clean my polarized sunglasses?
No, alcohol can damage the lens coatings and affect their polarization. Use a mild soap and water solution for cleaning.
4. Can I wear my polarized sunglasses in the rain?
While polarized sunglasses can be worn in the rain, it’s best to avoid exposing them to extreme weather conditions for prolonged periods.
5. How can I tell if my polarized sunglasses are still working?
If the glare-reducing effect is diminished or you notice a decrease in visual clarity, the polarization may have worn off. It’s a good idea to have them checked by a professional.
