7 simple glasses care tips to stop scratches and bent frames

Protecting your glasses from scratches and bent frames is simple with the right daily care routine. The most effective way to extend the life of your eyewear is to use a hard glasses case every time you take them off, and clean your lenses daily using a microfibre cloth. 

Follow these seven habits to keep your frames in perfect condition.

Our glasses and sunglasses cases start from just £5.95.

1. Always store glasses in a hard glasses case

If your glasses aren't on your nose, they should be in a hard glasses case.

A hard shell case creates a rigid barrier between your frames and everything else in your bag: keys, coins, lip balm, all the things that would otherwise wreak havoc on your lenses.

Our glasses cases come in a range of cheerful, colourful designs, from Fairies In The Garden to the Periodic Table, making it easy to find a style you'll love.

2. Clean with a microfibre cloth

A soft microfibre cloth is the best thing you can use to keep your lenses clear and scratch-free. Clothing, even when freshly washed, is abrasive at a microscopic level and will gradually dull your lenses over time.

Simply wash with lotion-free dish soap and warm water, then dry with a microfibre cloth. Every Rex London glasses case comes with one included.

Sunglasses case & cleaning cloth - Blue Gingham, £8.95

3. Keep your glasses out of direct sun

The dashboard of a parked car in summer can reach temperatures well above 60°C, enough to permanently warp your frames and cause lens coatings to bubble. Acetate and plastic frames are especially vulnerable, so keep your glasses or sunglasses in their hard glasses case and out of direct sunlight or heat sources.

4. Use mild washing-up liquid to clean the lenses

A single drop of mild washing-up liquid in lukewarm water is one of the most effective lens-cleaning solutions there is. Rinse first, apply a tiny drop of fragrance-free washing-up liquid, rub gently with your fingertips and rinse thoroughly. Hot water, bleach, ammonia, alcohol and window cleaner are all a firm no.

Glasses case & cleaning cloth - World Map, £5.95

5. Have a mini screwdriver kit handy

A microfibre cloth and a mini screwdriver kit are two things every glasses wearer should own. The tiny screws in frames loosen over time, and a small repair kit lets you tighten them in seconds. A spare nose pad kit and an alcohol-free lens spray are handy additions too.

6. Don’t rely on a soft glasses pouch

A soft glasses pouch will protect your lenses from scratches in your pocket, but it won't stop your frames getting crushed in a bag. A hard shell case absorbs knocks and resists crushing, so your glasses or sunglasses stay protected no matter what. For everyday use and travel, a hard shell glasses case is a much safer choice.

7. Check the structural integrity of your glasses case regularly

If the hinge is loose, the lining is fraying or the clasp no longer closes securely, it's time for a new one. A new glasses or sunglasses case is also an affordable way to refresh your accessories, and it makes a thoughtful gift for anyone still making do with a plain black one. With so many cheerful designs to choose from, the tricky part is picking just one.

Glasses case & cleaning cloth - Dog Park, £5.95

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of glasses case?

A hard shell glasses case is the best option for most people. Unlike soft pouches, a hard case protects your frames from being crushed and your lenses from being scratched, whether your glasses are in a bag, on a desk or in your luggage. Look for a secure clasp and a soft interior lining.

How do I clean my glasses without scratching them?

Always use a microfibre cloth and lukewarm water. A single drop of mild, fragrance-free washing-up liquid works brilliantly as a cleaning solution. Never use clothing, tissues or paper towels, as even these materials can cause micro scratches over time. Avoid hot water and any cleaners containing alcohol or ammonia.

Why do glasses frames warp?

Frames most commonly warp from heat exposure, particularly being left in a hot car or stored near a radiator. Acetate and plastic frames are especially vulnerable. Storing your glasses in a hard case and keeping them away from heat sources is the best prevention.

How do I stop my glasses getting scratched?

Store glasses in a hard shell case when not in use, only clean lenses with a microfibre cloth, avoid placing them face down on surfaces and keep them away from keys and coins. Anti-scratch lens coatings are worth asking your optician about too.

Should I choose a hard shell case over a soft pouch?

Soft pouches protect against surface scratches but offer no structural protection. For everyday use, a hard shell case is a much safer choice.

What’s the difference between a sunglasses case and a glasses case?

Sunglasses cases are slightly larger than standard glasses cases to accommodate wider frames. Other than that, the same rules apply. A hard shell design with a secure clasp and a soft interior lining is the best choice for both.

When should I replace my glasses case?

Replace your glasses case if the hinge is broken, the lining is fraying or the clasp no longer closes securely. It's also worth replacing if it's been dropped and lost its shape, or if you simply fancy a refresh.