Blog Hero

How to Clean Polarized Sunglasses

Book Appointment
Hands of a man wiping sunglasses with a microfiber cleaning cloth.

Polarized sunglasses are a popular choice for many. With an anti-glare chemical either built into or applied to the lens, they’re an excellent option for your visual clarity when you’re out and about. But as you use them more often, they’re going to get dirty. So how do you clean polarized sunglasses?

You can clean polarized sunglasses using a microfiber cloth and some warm water. If there’s a buildup of residue or oils, you should follow the manufacturer’s recommendation. Don’t use any household cleaners, as these can damage the lens or coating.

By properly caring for your polarized sunglasses, you can ensure they last a long time and help you get the most out of them. And with all sorts of brands and styles available and prescription options, there’s an option for everyone.

When you visit your optometrist, they can also perform a fitting and help you find the right pair of polarized sunglasses to suit your needs.

Properly Cleaning Your Polarized Sunglasses

We’ve all used our sleeve, a tissue, or whatever’s on hand to wipe a smudge off our glasses before. But if there’s any dust or dirt embedded in whatever cloth you use, or if the cloth itself is too rough, you could risk scratching the lens or coating and reducing the effectiveness of the sunglasses.

One of the best ways to properly clean a pair of polarized sunglasses is simply to use warm water and a soft microfiber cloth. Many sunglasses come with a microfiber cloth, but if you don’t have one, they’re quite affordable and can make a big difference in your glasses’ care.

To clean your sunglasses, follow these simple steps:

  1. Begin by blowing on the lens to dislodge and remove any dust or dirt that may have settled.
  2. Rinse under warm water to remove any residue or dirt. This helps remove any abrasive material that may scratch the lens or coating.
  3. While the water is still running or while the lenses are still damp, use the cloth with a small amount of pressure to wipe away any smudges or visible dirt.

Don’t use paper towels or any standard cloth to dry the lenses. These can leave lint or dust behind and could potentially damage the lens. It’s also important to avoid using hot water while cleaning your glasses, as it can lead to your sunglasses becoming damaged or warped.

A woman outdoors is cleaning her sunglasses by blowing the dirt.

Do I Need a Special Cleaner for Polarized Sunglasses?

Avoid using any standard household cleaners when you’re cleaning polarized sunglasses. The chemicals in these often react with the chemicals used in the sunglasses and can directly damage the lens or coating. This can make the coating completely dissolve, or make the lens cloudy or scratched. 

If you want to invest in some lens cleaning solution for your polarized sunglasses, it’s a good idea to check out the manufacturer’s recommendation on what solution to use. They often sell their own version or have a recommended brand that’s been extensively tested to make sure your sunglasses are well cared for. 

If you’re unsure of whether you need a special cleaner for your sunglasses, you can always reach out to your optometrist and ask what they recommend!

How to Properly Care for Polarized Sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses can be frustrating to replace if they get damaged in any way, so it’s best to do what you can to prevent damage in the first place.

Consider investing in a case for storing and transporting your polarized sunglasses when you aren’t wearing them. These cases are cheap and durable, and you can get one from your optometrist the next time you’re there. 

Avoid wearing your sunglasses in either extreme heat or extreme cold. For example, don’t leave them out sitting on the dashboard on a hot summer day. This can lead to warping and damage to the lens and frame. 

As convenient as it is, it’s also recommended to avoid cleaning your polarized sunglasses dry. Try to avoid rubbing them on your shirt or a random cloth, as even the smallest bit of residual dust or dirt can lead to scratches and damage.

Find Your Perfect Pair

Polarized sunglasses are an excellent way to deal with glare when you’re out in the sun, and the best way to make sure they’re as effective as they can be is to clean and store them properly. 

If you’re interested in getting a pair of polarized sunglasses for yourself, book an appointment with us at Total Vision Sports Arena or take a look at our collection online!

Written by Total Vision

instagram facebook facebook2 pinterest twitter google-plus google linkedin2 yelp youtube phone location calendar share2 link star-full star star-half chevron-right chevron-left chevron-down chevron-up envelope fax