4 of the Best DIY Glasses Cleaners for Uncoated & Coated Lenses

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Remove dust and smudges from your eyeglasses easily
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Making your own glasses cleaner is a cheap, easy way to make sure your lenses are smudge-free. Using ingredients you have on hand, from dish soap or witch hazel to vinegar or rubbing alcohol, we'll walk you through how to make an eyeglass-cleaning spray in minutes. Keep reading for all the best DIY lens cleaners, plus how to keep your glasses clean and scratch-free.

Best Homemade Eyeglass Cleaner

  • Fill a spray bottle with 1 part rubbing alcohol and 1 part distilled water.
  • Add 1 drop of dish soap to the mixture, screw the lid on, and shake gently to combine.
  • Spray the solution directly onto both sides of your lenses and wipe them clean with a microfiber cloth.
Section 1 of 6:

Dish Soap and Water Lens Cleaner

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  1. Dish soap is not only a safe and effective way to remove oil and get streak-free lenses, it can help prevent your glasses from fogging up while you’re wearing them. [1] To make your own eyeglass spray, fill a small spray bottle with distilled water and add a drop of regular dishwashing soap.
    • Swirl or shake the bottle until the soap is fully incorporated into the water, then spray it on the back and front of your glasses.
    • Wipe the lenses in small circular motions with a microfiber cloth until they’re clean and free of smudges or streaks. [2]
    • This method is safe on both coated and uncoated lenses.
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Section 2 of 6:

Homemade Witch Hazel Eyeglass Cleaner

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  1. Witch hazel is a popular astringent believed to treat acne and skin inflammation. [3] If possible, use witch hazel that includes alcohol in it—this will help break down the oil and grime on your glasses and leave them streak-free. Mix equal parts water and witch hazel in a small spray bottle. [4]
    • Witch hazel is sometimes said to have antiseptic properties, however, there is no conclusive evidence that this is true. [5]
    • This approach is safe for both coated and uncoated lenses.
  2. To tackle fingerprints and other oily marks that may get on your lenses, add a couple of drops of regular dish soap. Place the cap back on the bottle and shake it gently to mix all the ingredients together. [6]
    • To use it, spritz the solution onto both sides of your glasses and wipe with a microfiber cloth.
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Section 3 of 6:

White Vinegar Glasses Cleaner

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  1. White distilled vinegar is one of the many household items that can be used as a green cleaner on all kinds of surfaces, including glass. Pour 2 ⁄ 3   c (160 mL) of white vinegar and 1 ⁄ 3   c (79 mL) of water in a small spray bottle. [7]
    • After the solution is made, spritz a pump of the cleaner on the front and back of the lenses on your glasses. Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe away the smudges. [8]
    • For extra cleaning power, mix equal parts vinegar, distilled water, and alcohol in a spray bottle. Shake it to mix, then spray and wipe your lenses as normal. [9]
    • Try to avoid using undiluted vinegar—the acid could be harsh on coated lenses and strip them away over time. [10]
    • Vinegar may be too acidic for coated lenses. If your glasses have a coating on them, it may be best to try a different method.
Section 4 of 6:

Rubbing Alcohol-Based Eyeglass Cleaner

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  1. Rubbing alcohol can help sterilize your glasses and remove any oil on the lenses. Remove the cap from the small (2  fl oz (59 ml)) spray bottle and pour 1 part rubbing alcohol and 1 part distilled water into it. [11]
    • Rubbing alcohol is probably not safe on coated lenses. While some optometrists advise against using it because it can strip the finish, others believe the damage is minimal.
    • To prevent damaging your glasses, make sure to dilute the rubbing alcohol by at least 50% as this recipe does.

    Tip: To make it easier to fill the spray bottle, use a small funnel when you pour in the water.

  2. Watermark wikiHow to Make Eyeglass Cleaner
    Squirt a drop of gentle dish soap into the bottle and screw the spray lid on. Shake the bottle of cleanser so the rubbing alcohol and soap mix with the water. [12]
    • Try to avoid shaking the cleanser too vigorously or the dish soap may foam up.
    • Spritz both sides of each eyeglass lens with some of your cleaning solution. Then, take a clean microfiber cloth and gently rub the lenses until they're clean and dry. [13]
    • As long as you're using rubbing alcohol that isn't close to expiring, your eyeglass cleaner should last for a few months. Store it at room temperature.
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Section 5 of 6:

Washing Your Glasses Frame and Lenses in Soapy Water

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  1. Fill a bowl or sink with warm water. Squirt 1 or 2 drops of gentle lotion-free dishwashing soap into it, then swish the water with your hands to distribute the soap. [14]
    • Alternatively, fill the sink with warm water, rinse your glasses, and apply the soap directly to the lenses. [15]
    • Make sure the water isn’t hot—heat can warp your frames. [16]
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Make Eyeglass Cleaner
    Place the glasses in the soapy water so they're submerged. Then, gently rub your fingers over both sides of each eyeglass lens to loosen any grime. For more cleaning power, squirt a dollop of dish soap on the front and back of each lens and rub it into a lather. [17]
    • Rub the nose pads and hinges with your fingers.
    • If you have wood frames, gently wipe them with the soapy water mixture instead of submerging them. [18]

    Tip: To clean the frame, take a soft toothbrush and dip it into the soapy water. Gently scrub the hinges of the frame to remove grime.

  3. Watermark wikiHow to Make Eyeglass Cleaner
    Take the glasses out of the soapy water and turn on the tap. Run warm water over both sides of each lens to remove all of the soap and grime. Wipe them clean with a microfiber cloth. [19]
    • Remember not to touch the lenses after you've rinsed them or you could smudge them again.
    • Although you can air dry your glasses, the water may form water spots as it dries.
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Section 6 of 6:

Keeping Your Glasses Clean and Scratch-Free

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  1. Although homemade lens cleaners can be cheap and convenient, Dr. Felsted recommends using an approved lens spray. If you’re on a budget, he says that “most optomic or optometric glasses counters give away free lens sprays” you can use. The best eyeglass cleaners for coated and uncoated lenses include: [20]
  2. To take care of your glasses, comprehensive ophthalmologist Dr. David Felsted says to keep them in a padded case. “I always like to keep a microfiber cleaning cloth wrapped around the glasses when I put them in the case,” he adds.
    • If you don’t like the case that your glasses came with, there are plenty of other hard cases that may work for you. [22]
    • When you lay your glasses on a surface, make sure the lenses are face-up. [23]
  3. Over time, the cloth you clean your glasses with can cause more smears than it clears. To make sure your glasses are clean when you’re out and about, try to wash the microfiber cloth about once a week. [24]
    • Wash your microfiber cloth, simply toss it in the washing machine with the rest of your clothes or hand wash it with laundry soap and warm water.
    • You may keep a separate microfiber cloth on hand to switch your regular one out with while it’s in the washing machine.
  4. Although using your shirt seems convenient, Dr. Felsted says it’s not ideal. “Most high end optics will have a bunch of special coating on the lens,” He says. “If you're rubbing your glasses [on fabric], it's going to have a different index of friction and it's going to scratch that off its surface.”
    • Paper towels, tissues, and toilet paper can also scratch or smear your lenses. [25]
    • Try to only wipe your lenses when they’ve been sprayed with an eyeglass cleaner. Cleaning your lenses while they’re dry could cause scratches. [26]
  5. Hard water contains magnesium, calcium, and other minerals that can cause white spots or film on glass. [27] While they don’t harm the glass, these spots can be extremely hard to remove safely. [28] To protect your lenses over time, try to only use distilled water when washing them.
    • If your water is super soft, it may be safe enough to use on your lenses.
  6. Goggles not only prevent your glasses from getting broken, but they keep your eyes safe from sports-related injuries. [29] Wear protective goggles over your glasses along with a well-fitting helmet. [30] For the best protection, choose eyewear made out of ultra-strong polycarbonate . [31]
    • Sports with a high risk for eye injuries include baseball, basketball, hockey, paintball, boxing, and softball.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.npr.org/2020/05/08/853009325/how-to-prevent-glasses-from-fogging-up-while-wearing-a-mask
      2. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/home/cleaning/best-diy-eyeglass-cleaner-recipes
      3. ↑ https://aglab.ars.usda.gov/explore-learn/witch-hazel-not-just-grandma-anymore
      4. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/home/cleaning/best-diy-eyeglass-cleaner-recipes
      5. ↑ https://www.nationalacademies.org/based-on-science/covid-witch-hazel
      6. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/home/cleaning/best-diy-eyeglass-cleaner-recipes
      7. ↑ https://utopia.org/guide/homemade-eyeglass-cleaner/
      8. ↑ https://utopia.org/guide/homemade-eyeglass-cleaner/
      9. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/home/cleaning/best-diy-eyeglass-cleaner-recipes
      1. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine/2012/08/how-to-take-care-of-your-eyeglasses/index.htm
      2. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/what-not-to-clean-with-alcohol-8550213
      3. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/what-not-to-clean-with-alcohol-8550213
      4. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/home/cleaning/best-diy-eyeglass-cleaner-recipes
      5. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine/2012/08/how-to-take-care-of-your-eyeglasses/index.htm
      6. ↑ https://thevisioncouncil.org/sites/default/files/assets/media/Cleaning-Frames.pdf
      7. ↑ https://thevisioncouncil.org/sites/default/files/assets/media/Cleaning-Frames.pdf
      8. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/guides/how-to-clean-your-glasses/
      9. ↑ https://thevisioncouncil.org/sites/default/files/assets/media/Cleaning-Frames.pdf
      10. ↑ https://thevisioncouncil.org/sites/default/files/assets/media/Cleaning-Frames.pdf
      11. ↑ https://bestreviews.com/articles/fashion-accessories/sunglasses-eyewear/fashion-best-eyeglass-cleaner
      12. ↑ https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-glasses-cleaner/
      13. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/guides/how-to-clean-your-glasses/
      14. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine/2012/08/how-to-take-care-of-your-eyeglasses/index.htm
      15. ↑ https://thevisioncouncil.org/sites/default/files/assets/media/Cleaning-Frames.pdf
      16. ↑ https://healthcare.utah.edu/healthfeed/2017/02/paper-towel-clean-your-glasses-no
      17. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine/2012/08/how-to-take-care-of-your-eyeglasses/index.htm
      18. ↑ https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/water-science-school/science/hardness-water
      19. ↑ https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-get-hard-water-stains-off-glass-8612707
      20. ↑ https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/nei-for-kids/sports-and-your-eyes
      21. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/sport-safety.html
      22. ↑ https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/nei-for-kids/sports-and-your-eyes
      23. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine/2012/08/how-to-take-care-of-your-eyeglasses/index.htm

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      The safest and gentlest way to clean eyeglasses is with soap and water, but you can also make a convenient cleaning spray with rubbing alcohol. Fill a 2-ounce spray bottle halfway with clean water, then fill it up the rest of the way with rubbing alcohol. Add a drop of mild dishwashing soap, then stir the mixture together by gently swirling the bottle. Spritz the mixture on your glasses and wipe them with a microfiber cloth to remove dirt and grease. To learn how to make a glasses cleaner with witch hazel, keep reading!

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      • William Keller

        Mar 28, 2023

        "As a chid I messed up a lot of glasses by improper cleaning. Later I purchased cleaner and learned to do better but ..." more
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