If your sunglasses are your favourite fashion accessory and eye care aid, you’ll want them to last a long time.
If you take good care of your sunglasses they can last for 10 years or more. So what are our top tips for getting the most out of your favourite shades?
1. Protect Your Sunglasses From Scratches
Whilst glass lenses are more resistant to scratching than polycarbonate lenses, whatever your lens types it’s important to store your sunglasses in a case. If you just drop them in your bag they’re likely to get scratched by your keys and ruined.
Get yourself either a hardshell case or at minimum a microfibre pouch.
2. Clean Your Sunglasses Properly
Your sunglasses will be prone to smudges and grime, they will pick up oils from your skin and fingers, dirt from outside, makeup residue, and salt or chlorine from the ocean or pool.
The best way to clean your sunglasses is to start with clean, dry hands. Rinse your glasses under warm water and soap up your fingers with a few drops of mild dishwashing soap without harsh detergents or moisturisers. Rub soapy water on the frames and then dry them with a microfibre cloth for best results.
Do not use rubbing alcohol, glass cleaners, vinegar, or any other household cleaners on your glasses.
3. Don’t Leave Your Sunglasses In The Car
Don’t place your sunglasses on the dashboard where heat from the sun is particularly intense.
Extreme heat can be generated by the windshield of your car and that heat can cause the lens of your sunglasses to delaminate. The mirroring and anti-reflective coatinga on the lenses may degrade.
4. Consider How Your Care For Polarised or Mirrored Lenses
Whilst care for polarised sunglasses and mirrored sunglasses is the same as any pair of glasses, it should be noted that some high-quality lenses place the mirror inside the glass, while less-expensive lenses might spray on the mirroring.
Spray on coatings are more vulnerable to scratching and chemicals.
5. Stop Wearing Your Sunglasses On Top Of Your Head
Wearing your sunglasses on top of your head might seem convenient when not in use, but doing this repeatedly can damage to the nose pads, cause the screws to loosen, and stretch the arms.
If you follow these tips and advice, you will ensure that your favourite sunglasses stand the test of time. If you’re in the market for a new pair of sunglasses, visit us in store at D.I. Blow Opticians to see our full range.
