How Do I Make Reading Glasses Scratch-Proof?

Reading glasses are a necessity for people who cannot see fine print or work with small objects without difficulty. These glasses tend to be more susceptible to scratches because they are not worn all the time; taking them on and off frequently makes them vulnerable to mishaps that result in fine scratches. Since prescription reading glasses are often expensive, it is imperative that you care for them properly to avoid the need for frequent replacements.

Things You'll Need

• Lanyard or necklace to hold your glasses around your neck
• Case for your glasses
• Microfiber cloth or individually wrapped lens cleaner

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Instructions

• 1

  Wear a lanyard or necklace that will allow you to remove your glasses and rest them on your chest without placing them on a tabletop or desk. This leaves them unprotected and at risk of being knocked over or hit. Such lanyards come in a variety of styles.

• 2

  Use a glasses case whenever you take off your reading glasses. Placing them into the protective case and closing it will guard them against mishaps.

• 3

  Set your glasses on a protected area of your desk and never rest them facedown so that the lenses are touching the surface the glasses rest on. They need to be folded shut and set on the desktop with the top rim of the lenses (the portion that sits near your eyebrows) resting on the surface. This will prevent strain on the earpieces as well.

• 4

  Clean your lenses with a microfiber cloth or commercial lens cleaning pads. If these are not available, wet your glasses with warm water, apply a drop of liquid dish-washing soap, rub them gently with a soft cloth and rinse well. Do not use tissues, paper towels or other products unless they are labeled as safe for use on lenses. The wood fibers in these products can cause scratches.

• 5

  Ask your optician to put a scratch-proof coating onto your lenses, either when you order them or anytime afterward. Many lenses, such as polycarbonate, high-index and plastic lenses, have such a coating built in, according to the All About Vision website. Ask the optician about this feature and request the coating if yours does not include it.