Scratched Glasses? Here’s What You Can—and Shouldn’t—Try
Ever spot a tiny scratch on your glasses and wonder if there’s a magic fix online? Before experimenting with “miracle” hacks, it’s important to know what’s realistic—and what could make things worse.
1. Baking Soda Paste
Mix 1–2 teaspoons of baking soda with a few drops of distilled water into a smooth paste.
Clean your lenses first with mild soap or lens cleaner, then dry with a microfiber cloth.
Gently rub the paste on the scratch in small circles for 10–15 seconds.
Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean microfiber cloth.
Best for: Minor hairline scratches on uncoated plastic or glass lenses.
Avoid if: Your lenses have anti-glare, anti-scratch, or blue-light coatings.
2. Plain Toothpaste
Use only basic, non-gel toothpaste. Avoid whitening, gel, or tartar-control varieties.
Apply a pea-sized amount to a damp microfiber cloth and rub gently in tiny circles for no more than 10 seconds.
Rinse well and dry.
Caution: Toothpaste can damage coated lenses. Test on a small, edge area first.
3. Car Wax or Lens-Specific Scratch Removers
Clean lenses thoroughly.
Apply a tiny amount of car wax or a lens scratch kit and buff gently in circular motions.
Wipe off residue.
Warning: Wax may haze coated lenses. Better for sunglasses or older glasses than daily prescriptions.
4. Avoid Metal Polishes
Products like Brasso are far too abrasive and will permanently damage lenses. Don’t try it.
5. Prevention Is Key
Since scratches can’t truly be “fixed,” protecting your lenses matters most:
Store glasses in a hard case.
Clean only with lens solution and microfiber cloth.
Place lenses facing up when setting them down.
Consider scratch-resistant coatings for new lenses.
Keep a backup pair for rough situations.
When to See an Optician
Professional help is needed if scratches:
Interfere with your vision.
Cause eye strain, headaches, or glare at night.
Come with peeling coatings or cracks.
Many vision plans cover lens replacements—investing in clear vision is worth it.
Conclusion
Glasses are more than fashion—they’re your window to the world. Home remedies may slightly reduce minor scratches, but risking your prescription lenses isn’t worth it. Sometimes the safest, smartest solution is to invest in clear lenses and protect your sight for the long term.