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How can I Fix Scratched Glasses?

K T Solis
K T Solis

Most of the time, it is impossible to fix scratched glasses. The best option is to prevent scratches in the first place. If glasses have scratched lenses, it usually requires a trip to the optician in order to receive new ones. On the other hand, if glasses have superficial scratches on plastic lenses, it is sometimes possible to remove them. Removing scratches from lenses is a good way to save money instead of spending hard earned dollars on a new pair.

Some people with scratched glasses use furniture polish cleaner to polish lenses. They spray the polish on the plastic lenses and rub them for three minutes. Then they wash the glasses and dry them with a clean lint-free cloth. This will often improve the appearance of scratched lenses.

Eyeglasses.
Eyeglasses.

Scratched glasses can be prevented if the user takes steps to protect her eyeglasses. For example, eyeglasses should always be kept in a protective case when not in use. Cases can be obtained from the local optician. When someone purchases a new pair of glasses, the optician usually provides an eyeglasses case free of charge.

When removing eyeglasses from the face, it's important to use both hands. Never set the glasses down on any surface without placing them inside the case first since rough surfaces can scratch the lenses. If the eyeglasses case isn't available, glasses can be carefully placed so that the lenses do not touch the surface.

Fabric softener should not be used on cloths designated for cleaning lenses as it will merely smudge them.
Fabric softener should not be used on cloths designated for cleaning lenses as it will merely smudge them.

Scratched glasses can be prevented if the eyeglasses are cleaned frequently. When cleaning a pair of eyeglasses, use lukewarm water. The glasses should be placed under the tap so that the water can wash away any dust or debris on the lenses. Use a gentle dishwashing liquid to cleanse the lenses, placing a few drops of the detergent on the fingertips. Rub the liquid on both sides of the lenses and the frame in order to ensure that the glasses are thoroughly cleaned.

Finally, rinse the lenses with lukewarm water. Use a clean, lint-free towel to dry the glasses. Never use fabric softener on cloths designated for cleaning lenses as this will merely smudge them. Following these steps will help prevent scratched glasses.

Repairing scratched glasses is a nearly impossible task, but by taking preventative measures, a person can maintain the appearance of eyeglasses until it is time to receive a new eyeglass prescription. Cleansing the lenses on a regular basis and avoiding placing them on rough surfaces can help a person keep her eyeglasses in good condition. Since purchasing eyeglasses can be expensive, take good care of them in order to avoid spending unnecessary money on replacement glasses.

Discussion Comments

parmnparsley

@ PelesTears- Whatever you do, do not use glass scratch remover or try to buff the scratches out yourself. You will end up taking the lens coating off your lens, which will only make the picture quality worse. This will be a guaranteed way to make a lens need rebuilding.

Try using the marker trick first, or buy a lens pen. If the scratch is not too deep, these should work.

Georgesplane

@ PelesTears- Ouch! You can try filling in the scratch with a permanent black marker. If the scratch is deep enough, it will cause the light to distort, messing up the focus or clarity on the part of your picture behind the lens. If you take a fine tip sharpie, carefully fill in the crack, and immediately wipe off any excess ink, the scratch will not affect your picture quality.

If this does not work, you can send your lens in to have a camera technician rebuild it. This may cost you a little, but not what you paid for the lens. The repairperson will grind, polish, and coat the lens to repair the scratches on the glass, or replace it with a new element. If you want to keep your lens in like new condition this is probably your best option. Talk to your local camera shop and they should be able to recommend a lens repair expert.

PelesTears

I know this is a little off topic, but is there anything that will get scratches out of glass? I dropped my camera lens, and now it has a scratch right in the middle of the front element. I was standing on a rock outcropping when I saw a large moose in the valley, so I was trying to switch to my tele lens. I dropped my 17-55mm f/2.8 super wide angle that I had on the camera. I was able to break its fall with my foot, but it still hit the loose rocks as it slid to a stop.

I paid about $1000 used for the lens (no warranty service), and I would hate to have to get rid of it. Is there any way that I can fix the lens, or do I need to buy a new one?

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    • Eyeglasses.
      By: Nikolay Pozdeev
      Eyeglasses.
    • Fabric softener should not be used on cloths designated for cleaning lenses as it will merely smudge them.
      By: Unclesam
      Fabric softener should not be used on cloths designated for cleaning lenses as it will merely smudge them.