Your Glasses and COVID-19
Viruses, as well as bacteria, are easily spread from our surroundings to our hands, and then from our hands to our glasses (including our lenses and frame). By touching our glasses and then our eyes, nose, and mouth, we are then potentially transferring these viruses to ourselves.
In fact, research has shown that the coronavirus can remain on glass surfaces for as long as 9 days. If not careful, we can easily be the cause of helping spread the contagion cycle.
The danger is even higher for those 40 and above with presbyopia (the gradual loss of your eyes’ ability to focus on nearby objects and needing reading glasses). Presbyopes tend to take their reading glasses on and off continuously throughout the day. What’s more worrisome is that this age group is at a higher risk for more serious complications from COVID-19.
So, one might ask, can the risk be reduced? The great news is it can, and as easily as disinfecting your glasses! Now, let’s delve into the ways you should and should not disinfect your lenses at home.
What NOT to Clean Your Glasses With
Although many of us have rubbing-alcohol at home, and it may seem like a perfectly good idea to use it to disinfect your specs, it may be too harsh for your glasses. Especially for those that have paid extra to have special coatings placed on their lenses.
Other products that should be avoided on your glasses include ammonia, bleach, or anything with high concentrations of acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar. This also can damage lens coatings and some eyewear materials.
How to Safely Disinfect Your Glasses
Dish soap and water – this is the absolute easiest and most efficient way to disinfect and clean your lenses. Simply use lukewarm water with gentle dish soap. First, rinse the lenses to remove any particles that may scratch the lenses before you clean them. Then, massage the soap onto each lens, rinse, and dry using a microfiber cloth (not paper towels, as the fibers on these can easily scratch the lenses). While you’re at it, don’t forget to include your frame’s nose pads and earpieces.
Lens Cleaning Wipes – pre-moistened lens wipes are excellent for cleaning your glasses, as well as your phone, tablet, and computer screen. They remove bacteria, dust, dirt, and germs well from these items. The formula restores shine to glass surfaces without leaving streaks or residue. The durable material is also tough enough to remove stains while being gentle enough not to scratch your lenses or screens.
In Summary
- DO NOT use rubbing alcohol to disinfect your glasses.
- Avoid using household cleaners or products with high concentrations of acid.
- Clean your glasses with gentle dish soap and lukewarm water, or lens wipes.
- Dry your glasses with a microfiber cloth to prevent smudging and scratching.
Disinfecting your glasses shouldn’t be stressful or worrisome. By simply following the easy steps above you can protect your lenses and your health. Also, our wonderful opticians at The Eye Center are happy to answer questions for you at any time or demonstrate these steps for you. Feel free to call or stop by.
