Sunglasses are more than just a stylish accessory; they’re a crucial investment in your eye health. But like any good investment, they require proper care to stay in top condition. Whether you’ve splurged on a designer pair or found a great deal, taking care of your sunglasses will ensure they last for years while continuing to protect your eyes and keep you looking sharp. Here are practical tips and tricks to help you maintain your sunglasses, so they stay as good as new for as long as possible.
Daily Care Tips
Cleaning Your Sunglasses Properly
One of the most important aspects of sunglasses care is keeping the lenses clean and scratch-free. Before you reach for a cloth, start by rinsing your sunglasses under lukewarm water. This simple step helps to wash away dust and debris that could scratch the lenses when wiped. Once rinsed, use a soft microfibre cloth to gently dry and polish the lenses. Microfibre is ideal because it’s gentle and won’t leave behind any lint or scratches. It’s also important to avoid household cleaners, such as window spray or soap, as these can damage the lens coatings. Instead, use a lens cleaning solution that’s specifically designed for eyewear.
Handling Sunglasses with Care
How you handle your sunglasses day-to-day can significantly impact their lifespan. Always use both hands when putting on or taking off your sunglasses to avoid bending the frames. When you’re not wearing them, resist the temptation to place them lens-side down on any surface—this is a surefire way to get scratches. Instead, store them in a protective case, preferably one that’s lined and has a hard exterior to prevent any accidental damage. Another thing to watch out for is heat. Leaving your sunglasses on a car dashboard or near other heat sources can warp the frames and damage the lens coatings, so it’s best to keep them in a cool, shaded place. If you do break your sunglasses, you can get a branded yet affordable pair from Spex4Less.
Long-Term Maintenance
Checking for Loose Screws and Hinges
Over time, the screws in your sunglasses may start to loosen, especially if you’re frequently taking them on and off. It’s a good idea to regularly inspect the hinges and screws to ensure everything is tight and secure. If you notice any looseness, use a small screwdriver to gently tighten the screws—just be careful not to over-tighten and strip them. Additionally, consider applying a tiny drop of oil to the hinges every few months. This will keep them moving smoothly and prevent any squeaking or stiffness.
Replacing Worn-Out Parts
Even with the best care, some parts of your sunglasses may need to be replaced over time. Nose pads, for example, can wear out or discolour after extended use. Fortunately, replacing them is usually inexpensive and straightforward—many opticians can do it for you, or you can find replacement pads online.
Tips for Securing Cheaper Eyewear
Are you worried about the cost of glasses? There’s no doubt that the price of everything is rising. But, glasses are something you can’t avoid. This is particularly true if you need a prescription and require them for everyday use. Whether you need a new prescription or the frames you have are damaged, you need to act quickly to replace them.
However, know that you don’t have to pay a fortune to secure cheaper eyewear. There are a few things you can do to get a great price. Here are some tips to help you.
Shop Online
Most people think you must go into the high street to get glasses. This is particularly true when you have a prescription. But, there’s nothing stopping you from getting an eye test and taking your prescription away with you. You can then use it to shop for frames and lenses online. Indeed, this is often a cheaper solution and you’re not forced to pay the prices of that provider. Instead, online eyewear retailers are known to be cheaper and offer you more choices. You can take advantage of this and secure a great deal.
Explore All Brands
Do you love wearing branded accessories? You might naturally believe branded eyewear will have the best frames for you. However, you shouldn’t assume this is the case. It’s important that you explore all brands when you’re trying to choose glasses. You’ll find that there are great frames that are cheaper. In fact, there are some frames that look similar but are from an unknown brand. So, you could still find the style you love just at a lower and more affordable price.
Wait for a Sale
Online eyewear retailers always have a sale. Sometimes, you just have to be patient and wait for the right one. This is a fantastic way to secure a great deal on the frames and lenses you want. A good way to know when the sales will be is to sign up for the company’s newsletter. This is going to keep you up-to-date on the latest promotions and make sure that you’re not paying full price. So, if you’re not in a hurry to get your glasses, have a little patience, and it could make a huge difference.
Conclusion
Taking care of your sunglasses doesn’t have to be a chore. With a few simple habits, you can keep your favourite pair looking great and performing well for years to come. From proper cleaning techniques and careful handling to regular maintenance and eco-friendly disposal, these tips will help you get the most out of your investment. Remember, a little care goes a long way in preserving the quality and longevity of your sunglasses.
