This is a non-negotiable fact - if you are a sportsperson who uses sports sunglasses, you must keep them in ship shape. Sports sunglasses are essential for both performance and safety. Whether you are tracking a fast-moving tennis ball, negotiating a mountain bike course, or guarding your eyes from the light of a baseball diamond; you need your sports spectacles to sit right on your face.
Scratched lenses can produce poor vision, and make it harder to enjoy the sport you love. But at the same time, not all sports are soft and cozy. They tend to get rough and you expose your sunglasses to environmental conditions. This means that you must devote some care to maintaining your sports sunglasses so your sports experiences are unaffected.
With the help of this guide, you'll be able to estimate damage and take precautionary action. You'll also find some DIY tips you can follow to ensure that your sports sunglasses last a long time.
Assessing the Damage: Are Your Sunglasses Redeemable?
If you play sports frequently, your sunglasses are susceptible to tarnishing or damage. Here are various methods to determine whether you can fix them or whether you have to get new ones:
Evaluating Scratch Severity
Superficial scratches are not very noticeable and have minimal impact on vision. Deeper scratches, however, can distort your view. They can scatter light and create a safety hazard. Before attempting any repairs, meticulously examine your lenses under good lighting.
Determining Repairability
Not all scratches are created equal. Deep gouges or cracks are likely beyond repair and require lens replacement. However, for minor scratches, several options exist to restore clarity and function.
DIY Home Remedies to Fix Scratched Sunglasses
For minor scratches that don't significantly impair vision, you can explore some home remedies. However, proceed with caution! Using the wrong materials or applying excessive pressure can worsen the damage. Here are some methods to consider, of course with important tips to keep in mind:
1.Toothpaste
It may surprise you to learn that a small amount of non-abrasive toothpaste( look for constituents like baking soda on the package) can serve as a light polish. Using a soft, damp microfiber cloth, apply a small amount.
Gently buff the region that has been scratched in a circular motion. Use another microfiber kerchief to dry after giving the area a good scrub in some lukewarm water. Important: Steer clear of gel toothpaste and toothpaste with decolorizing constituents since they may be harsh.
2.White Vinegar
Start by mixing equal parts white vinegar and distilled water. While applying this to your scratched sunglasses, make sure you soak a soft, lint-free cloth in the solution. Now all you have to do is rub the cloth on the scratch in circular motions and rinse the lens with water. Make sure you dry it immediately once the process is done.
Using the same procedure, you can also use mild baby shampoo, olive oil, or even a solution of lemon juice and baking soda. Use light pressure while scrubbing your scratched sports sunglasses.
3.Baking Soda Paste
There are other ways you can try to fix your sunglasses if the smell of toothpaste turns you off. You can start by making a paste out of baking soda and water for a little stronger cleaning solution. Apply in the same way as with toothpaste, but use more caution when buffing.After rinsing well, pat dry with a microfiber cloth. This rinse will also make any lingering smells or pasty textures go away. Important: Baking soda has the same mild abrasive properties as toothpaste. Start by testing your paste a little on a barely noticeable portion of the lens.
4.Vehicle Wax
Car wax made from carnauba can add a protective layer and fill up small scratches. Using a fresh microfiber cloth, dab a tiny bit of the solution onto the lens. Using a fresh, dry cloth, remove any leftovers. Use car wax exclusively on plastic lenses; do not apply it to lenses coated with anti-reflective or other materials.
5.Baby Oil
Using a delicate cloth free of lint, apply a tiny amount of baby oil and gently rub it onto the region that has been scratched. Small scratches may be filled in and less apparent with the oil's assistance. Afterward, make sure to give the lenses a thorough cleaning to get rid of any residue.
6.Aluminum Foil
Crumple up a small piece of aluminum foil and gently brush it over the scratches for a less typical approach. This may lessen the noticeable appearance of little scratches. Use caution when using this procedure, though, since it may result in additional scratches if not done correctly.
7.Petroleum Jelly
On the region that was scraped, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly. This can aid in covering small scratches and reducing their visibility. Using a fresh cloth, remove any excess bits and clean the lens.
8.Clear Nail Polish
On the region that was scratched, lightly coat some clear nail paint. After letting it dry completely, use a soft cloth to gently wipe away any excess. This might sound like an unconventional method, but trust us, it works like magic! Be careful while using this trick as it may harm the lens coating even though it can assist fill in small scratches.
Professional Repair Services: A Step-by-Step Guide
Professional opticians can offer several solutions for scratched lenses, depending on the severity of the damage:
When to Call a Professional
It is better to let the professionals do it if the scratches are severe. If you're not sure what your lenses are made of, you could end up aggravating the situation. Seek expert help if your first attempts at home cures make the condition worse.
Assess the Damage
Examine your sunglasses closely to determine the severity of the scratches. Deep gouges, cracks, or extensive damage typically require professional attention.
Contact the Manufacturer
Many sunglass manufacturers offer repair services or can direct you to authorized repair centers. Check the warranty information that came with your sunglasses.
Visit an Optician
Opticians often provide lens repair and replacement services. They can assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.
Consider Sunglass Retailers
Some sunglass retailers offer repair services for the brands they sell. Check with your local stores to inquire about their repair options.
Buffing and Polishing
Professionals can successfully remove small scratches from lenses and restore the clarity of your sunglasses by buffing and polishing them. This is done using specialized tools and procedures that they have access to.
Lens Replacement
When scratches are too deep or the lens is cracked, replacement is the best option. This ensures your vision is not compromised and the sunglasses offer protection. New lenses are chosen to match the original specifications of your sunglasses. This could include the shade, polarization, and any special coatings.
Re-coating
For lenses with technical coatings similar to scrape-resistant or concentrated coatings, damage can affect the performance and comfort of your sunglasses. Professionals can recoat lenses to restore their original functionality.
By using these professional services, you can significantly improve the condition of your sports sunglasses. You can prevent further damage that DIY work might cause and give yourself better athletic performance.
Preventive Measures: Keeping Your Sunglasses Scratch-Free
Here are some simple ways to keep your sports sunglasses in good condition:
Proper Storage
When not in use, keep your sunglasses in a protective case at all times. This shields them from crushing, dust, and scratches. With a hard case, you can shield your lenses from scratches. It will also keep your frames intact by creating a barrier from environmental impurities and physical harm.
Cleaning
Clean your sunglasses regularly with a microfiber cloth and a lens cleanser designed for eyeglasses. Avoid using paper napkins which can scratch the lenses. Rinse the lenses with lukewarm water to remove any face debris or dust.
Apply a small amount of lens cleanser onto the lenses and use a clean microfiber cloth to gently wipe them in a circular motion. This will help in removing scratches and any small fingerprints. Use a dry section of the microfiber cloth to dry the lenses fully.
Develop Good Habits
Never throw your sunglasses into your luggage or place them face down on a table. When not in use, make it a practice to handle them carefully and store them in their case. To prevent the frames from bending, use both hands when putting on or taking off your sunglasses.
Additionally, even if wearing sunglasses on your head makes you appear fashionable or convenient, avoid doing so. This may stretch the frames and allow hair products or other accessories to scratch the lenses. Additionally, stay away from putting chemicals like sunscreen, bug repellent, or cleaning supplies near your sunglasses. The coatings and lenses may be harmed by certain abrasive substances.
Conclusion
Your sunglasses will continue to work at their best and provide a clear, unhindered vision for all of your sporting activities if you use the right repair techniques when needed. Keep in mind that you may greatly increase the lifespan of your valuable sports sunglasses with a simple investment in maintenance.
