Only use a cleaner that’s approved for eyeglass lenses. Home glass cleaners for windows or tabletops might be too abrasive for glasses.
It’s very important to use a non-abrasive, non-gel, non-whitening toothpaste—these properties might expand the scratch or cause more damage.
Alternatively, make a paste with white vinegar and powdered mustard. Rub it into the scratch with a cotton ball in a circular motion, then rinse and clean your lenses. Mustard is an eye irritant, so clean thoroughly and avoid touching your face afterwards. [6] X Research source
Car or vehicle wax can be bought online, at auto parts stores and mechanics, or at most home goods stores.
Remove any remaining polish or alcohol with a good rinse. Finish by cleaning your lenses with eyeglass cleaner. For minor scratches, try skipping the polish and just apply rubbing alcohol with a microfiber cloth.
Sound: gently tap the lens against a metal ring. Glass will produce a high-pitched ringing sound, whereas plastic will sound like a low thud. Weight: glass lenses are noticeably heavier than plastic ones. Temperature: glass lenses will be cold to the touch after they’ve been off your face for a while. Plastic lenses will stay warmer because of their insulating properties.
Most glass etching creams contain sulfuric acid, but products with hydrofluoric acid will work too. Be careful not to leave the cream on too long since the acid content can damage your lenses. Carefully review the instructions before applying.
Do not use glass etching cream on glass lenses. The acid content will severely damage the lenses and you’ll have to get them replaced.
