How to remove scratches from sunglasses

How to fix scratched sunglasses

Scratches on your sunglass lenses can detract from the overall appearance of your shades. They can also be visually distracting and interfere with your ability to see clearly. Replacing or fixing scratched sunglass lenses may be necessary to maintain their comfort, function and aesthetic appeal.

If you’ve searched online for “how to remove scratches from sunglasses,” you’ve likely come across a wide range of home remedies and do-it-yourself (DIY) tips. While you might be tempted to try one, it’s important to understand that no method is guaranteed to remove scratches completely. In fact, DIY attempts to repair scratched sunglasses can often cause additional damage. 

Seeking help from an optician is the safest and most effective way to address scratched lenses. In many cases, the only foolproof fix is to replace the damaged lens. But if lens replacement isn't feasible, you might consider investing in a new pair of sunglasses with a scratch-resistant coating. 

While professional assistance is the most reliable option, many people search for DIY methods first. If you’re curious about these solutions, it’s important to understand their limitations and potential risks. Read on to learn about some common DIY methods for removing scratches from sunglasses and when it’s best to consult an optician.

SEE RELATED: How to fix scratched eyeglass lenses

Home methods for removing scratches from sunglasses

Sunglass lenses can have special coatings like ultraviolet (UV) protection, mirrored finishes or polarization. Home methods for removing scratches from sunglasses are mostly designed to “buff” scratches out of the coatings and not the actual lens material underneath. However, taking a DIY approach to fix scratched sunglasses could potentially damage these lens coatings and worsen the problem. For this reason, consulting an optical professional is always the safest choice.

However, if you still choose to attempt a DIY method to remove scratches from sunglasses, here are a few popular solutions:

Baking soda and water

This method uses a paste made from baking soda and water. To begin, gather the following materials:

• Baking soda

• Cool water

• A small bowl

• A cotton ball

• A clean microfiber cloth

Steps:

1. Combine 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Blend until the ingredients form a paste. 

2. Using the cotton ball, apply a small amount of the paste to the scratched portion of the lens.

3. Still using the cotton ball, gently rub the paste over the scratch for about 10 seconds. Use a circular motion to work the paste over the area of concern. Avoid vigorous scrubbing.

4. Rinse the lens with cool water until no baking soda paste remains.

5. Gently dry the lens with a clean microfiber cloth. 

Toothpaste

Toothpaste is another popular DIY method used to fix scratched sunglasses. However, if you attempt this method, avoid using mint, gel-based or whitening toothpastes. They’re more abrasive and may be more likely to cause further damage. 

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Plain white toothpaste

• A cotton ball

• Cool water

• A clean microfiber cloth

Steps:

1. Place a small amount of toothpaste on a piece of cotton. 

2. Using a circular motion, gently rub the toothpaste over the scratched portion of the lens for around 10 seconds. 

3. Rinse the lens with cool water until no toothpaste remains.

4. Gently dry the lens with a clean microfiber cloth.

Car or furniture wax

Products like car wax or furniture wax are also popular DIY remedies used to fix scratched sunglasses. To try this method, gather the following materials:

• Car wax or furniture wax

• A soft, clean lint-free cloth or cotton ball

• A second clean lint-free cloth

Steps:

1. Place a small amount of the chosen wax on the cotton ball or cloth.

2. Using cotton ball or cloth, gently rub the wax over the scratched area in a circular motion for around 10 seconds. 

3. With a different clean cloth, remove the wax from the lens.

4. Use your fingers to wipe away any residual wax.

LEARN MORE: Parts of sunglasses and their functions

Other DIY methods

Some DIY techniques have an even greater potential to cause damage because they suggest using one of the following materials to remove scratches from sunglasses:

• Vinegar

• Alcohol

• Brass polish

• Superglue

• Sandpaper

• Glass-etching products

Since these items are more likely to strip lens coatings, damage the lens material or corrode metal parts of the frame, it’s best to avoid them altogether.

Frequently asked questions

Dealing with scratched sunglasses often raises other concerns related to their care. Here are some commonly asked questions about sunglasses maintenance and repair:

How do I prevent my sunglasses from getting scratched?

Preventing scratches is key to keeping your sunglasses in top shape. Taking proper care of them is the best way to help them stay scratch-free for as long as possible. Follow these tips to reduce the risk of scratching your sunglass lenses:

• Always store your sunglasses in a clean, hard protective case. Don’t toss them haphazardly into places like bags, purses or car consoles when you’re not wearing them.

• Avoid placing your glasses lens-side down after taking them off. Instead, set them lens-side up on a hard, stable surface (preferably in a protective case).

• Avoid wiping your lenses with your shirt, tissues or paper towels. Use a clean, lint-free or microfiber cloth instead.

• Never leave your sunglasses in extreme heat, like in your car on a hot day, as this can severely damage both the frame and lenses.

• Use a sunglass strap or retainer during activities in which your sunglasses might slide down or fall off.

• Consider buying sunglasses with a scratch-resistant coating for enhanced durability. 

LEARN MORE: How to take care of your sunglasses

How do I clean scratched sunglasses?

You can clean scratched sunglasses using the same approach you would for your regular eyeglasses. Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions if possible. 

In most cases, you can clean the lenses and frame with a mild dish soap or eyeglass cleaning spray. Just make sure any type of lens cleaning spray is safe for the lens coatings you have. 

Never use harsh chemicals or other materials that could damage your shades, including:

• Saliva

• Alcohol

• Ammonia 

• Bleach

To clean your sunglasses with soap and water, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with lotion-free soap and water.

2. Rinse your sunglasses with lukewarm or room-temperature water to remove any debris. 

3. Place a small drop of mild, non-lotion dish soap on each lens and the frame. Gently rub the soap across all surfaces. 

4. Rinse your sunglasses with water to remove all the soap. 

5. Gently dry the lenses and frame with a clean microfiber cloth.

As an alternative, you could use an ophthalmic lens spray approved for sunglasses. Once you’ve confirmed the spray is safe to use with your lens coatings, follow these steps:

1. Begin by washing your hands thoroughly with lotion-free soap and water.

2. Rinse your sunglasses with lukewarm or room-temperature water to remove any debris. 

3. Mist the front and back surfaces of each lens with the lens spray.

4. Using a microfiber cloth, gently wipe the spray in a circular motion across the surface of each lens until it is clean and dry. 

If your sunglass lenses have hydrophobic (water-repellent), oleophobic (oil-repellent) or other types of coatings, check with the manufacturer or an optician to determine the proper cleaning method.

SEE RELATED: How to clean your glasses

Can you buff scratches out of sunglasses?

Buffing out scratches on sunglasses may not be possible, and using an abrasive product to “fix” scratched sunglasses could make the problem worse. It could also create new problems if any lens coatings are damaged. If you notice a scratch on your sunglasses lenses, ask an optician for assistance.

Do I need to replace my scratched sunglasses?

You may need to replace your sunglasses (or just the scratched sunglass lenses), especially if the scratch is deep or if attempting to remove it could cause further damage. Significant scratches can affect UV coatings, preventing your sunglasses from fully protecting your eyes against the sun’s harmful rays. In such cases, replacement is the best option to ensure 100% UVA-UVB lens protection. 

Many major sunglass brands offer replacement lenses for certain frame styles, so it’s worth checking with the manufacturer to see if this is available. If your sunglass lenses originally came with a scratch-resistant coating, lens replacement might even be covered under a warranty. Contact the manufacturer or an optician to determine if your lenses qualify for warranty coverage.

However, if the warranty has expired or your sunglasses aren’t covered, replacing the lenses or buying a new pair may be the ideal solution.

Can you repair secondhand sunglasses?

Buying sunglasses from a thrift store can be a great way to pick up a budget-friendly pair. If the frames are in good condition but the lenses are scratched, you may be tempted to try a DIY repair method for scratch removal. 

However, if you don’t know what lens coatings were included when the sunglasses were originally produced, it can be difficult to determine the safest cleaning method. It may be best to speak to an optician for advice or to see if replacing the lenses is possible.

Take your scratched sunglasses to the optician

DIY methods to remove scratches from sunglasses may be tempting, but these options are usually not that effective. They also come with the risk of doing further damage to your lenses. 

The safest and most effective way to remove scratches from sunglasses is to seek the expertise of an optician. They can let you know if the lenses can or should be replaced or if it might be time to consider buying a new pair. 

Also keep in mind that attempting a repair on your own could void any warranty you may have. In most cases, seeking the help of professionals is the most successful approach.

READ NEXT: How to find the best scratch-resistant sunglasses

Page published on Sunday, February 16, 2020

Page updated on Tuesday, December 17, 2024

Medically reviewed on Tuesday, December 10, 2024