How to Disinfect Your Glasses to Help Prevent COVID-19

Coronavirus and Your Eyeglasses

Your eyeglasses (lenses and frames) can potentially transfer viruses, such as COVID-19, to your eyes, nose, and mouth.  Viruses and bacteria are easily transferred from our surroundings to our hands and from there to our glasses.  Research showns that coronavirus can remain on glass surfaces for as long as 9 days. We are often not aware that we touch our faces, eyes and nose as often as we do, and that is why washing our hands is so important.

People who are over 40 often need reading or computer glasses.  When we put on and then take off our eyeglasses, we can inadvertently be transferring the virus.  This age group is more susceptible to other compromising factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and respiratory illnesses, and are at higher risk for more serious complications from COVID-19.

How can we disinfect our glasses?

What are the do's and don'ts?

Don't use:

• Rubbing-alcohol.  Although it may be a good disinfectant, it may also be too harsh for your eyeglasses, especially if you have anti glare lenses or anti UV lenses.
• Ammonia, bleach, or anything with high concentrations of acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar, because they can also damage your lenses and frames.
• Paper towels to dry your lenses because the fibers can easily scratch the lenses.

You can use:

• Dish Soap and Water, then rinse and dry using a microfiber cloth.  Remember to clean the frame's nose pads and earpieces.
• Lens Cleaning Wipes.  The 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 from your glasses and the formula restores shine to glass surfaces without leaving any streaks or residue. The durable material is tough enough to remove stains, while being gentle enough not to scratch your screens or lenses.

So, 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 a gentle dish soap and lukewarm water, or lens wipes.
• Dry your glasses with a microfiber cloth to prevent smudging and scratching.

Disinfecting your glasses isn't difficult.  Just follow the easy steps above to protect your lenses and your health.

On behalf of everyone at Family Eye Care in Old Bridge, we hope you and your loved ones stay healthy and safe during this uncertain time.