How to Remove Scratches From Eyeglasses

There are some surprisingly effective methods you can try right at home to remove scratches on your glasses. You only need to use common household items.

Before we dive in, remember that these techniques are best suited for minor surface scratches. If the scratch is deep or your glasses are particularly valuable, we recommend consulting a professional optician instead of taking matters into your own hands.

How to Get Scratches Out of Glasses at Home

One thing to remember is that patience and a gentle touch are essential when using these DIY methods. 

We recommend testing a small, inconspicuous area of the lens before tackling the main scratch. If you don't see any improvement or the scratch seems to worsen, it's best to stop and consult a professional.

Here are the home methods you can try:

Baking Soda Paste

Baking soda is a wonder ingredient for all sorts of things, and it turns out it can be a savior for scratched lenses too. Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste, and gently rub it onto the scratched area using a soft cloth or cotton ball.

The baking soda's gentle abrasive action can help smooth out the lens's surface. The keyword here is gentle—too much pressure can cause further damage.

Toothpaste

Surprisingly, non-gel, non-whitening toothpaste can also work wonders on minor scratches. Apply a small dab to the scratched area and gently rub it with a soft cloth for 10 seconds.

Just like with baking soda, be careful not to overdo it. Toothpaste's mild abrasives can help smooth out minor imperfections.

Car Wax

Car wax isn't just for your car's exterior. It can also fill in and smooth out minor scratches on your glasses.

Apply a small amount to the scratched area and buff it gently with a soft cloth. It might sound odd, but many glasses wearers swear by this trick.

Dish Soap and Water

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best. Washing your lenses with warm water and mild dish soap can remove debris and dirt that might make the scratches more noticeable. Be sure to dry them with a soft, lint-free cloth afterward.

Expert-Recommended Solutions for Glasses Scratches

While some minor scratches might seem easy to care for at home, eye care professionals generally advise against using household items on your lenses. These substances can be too abrasive and heavy handling might damage the delicate coatings on your lenses, leading to more vision problems.

With that in mind, let's explore some expert-approved solutions for dealing with those unwanted scratches:

• Lens scratch remover sprays. These products are specifically formulated to fill in minor scratches on your lenses. They're widely available online and in stores, and they often come in easy-to-use spray bottles.
• Professional-grade solutions. Opticians typically use professional-grade lens scratch removers and offer more scratch removal than over-the-counter products.
• Scratch-resistant coatings. While no lens is completely scratch-proof, these coatings can significantly reduce the risk of everyday wear and tear.

If the scratch is deep or affecting your vision, don't hesitate to consult your optician. They have specialized tools to assess the damage and recommend the best course of action⁠—whether polishing, buffing, or replacing the lenses altogether.

How to Prevent Scratches on Glasses

Prevention is better than cure. Consider investing in cleaning and maintenance kits. A dedicated kit for your glasses can help you avoid using harsh materials that could cause scratches.

These often include microfiber cloths, cleaning solutions, and sometimes even a small repair kit for tightening screws or adjusting nose pads. When you’re done cleaning or using your glasses, always store them in a case.

Here are other tips to prevent scratches on your glasses:

• Avoid using abrasive materials like paper towels or tissues, as these can easily scratch the lenses.
• Avoid placing your glasses lens-down on any surface.
• Avoid pushing them up on your head, as this can stretch and distort the frame over time.
• Always use a microfiber cloth and a lens cleaning solution specifically designed for glasses.
• If you're going on a hike or participating in sports, consider wearing protective eyewear or switching to contact lenses.
• Avoid leaving your glasses in hot places, such as a parked car on a sunny day, as high temperatures can damage the lens coatings.

When you put on or take off your glasses, use both hands to gently hold the arms. This distributes the pressure evenly and prevents the frames from bending or twisting, which can lead to misalignment and even lens damage.

By making these simple habits a part of your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of scratching your glasses and ensure they stay in excellent condition.

Treating them with a little extra care and attention will not only keep them looking their best but also ensure they continue to serve you well for years to come.