There are a variety of ways to clean glasses, all of which focus on removing residue without damaging the lenses. It is very important to know what kind of glasses you have before you clean them, however, as some have special protective finishes that can be damaged through some cleaning processes. When you order new glasses, make sure to ask about any special care directions your optometrist has for the new lenses.
One of the best ways to clean eyeglass lenses quickly is with specialized lens wipes, which are formulated to be gentle on the glass or plastic. Many optometrists sell such wipes, and they can also be found in drug stores. To clean glasses with glasses wipes, follow the directions on the packaging.
For a more thorough cleaning, you can wash your glasses. Start by cleaning the nosepads and then rinsing the glasses under warm water to remove dirt and surface residue. Then, apply a small amount of mild detergent to your clean fingers and use them to gently move the soap across the lenses in a circular motion. Make sure not to push on the lenses too hard, as you do not want to scratch them. Rinse the glasses again under warm water; if they are really clean, the lenses will repel water, so all that you need to do is dry the frames with a soft cotton cloth.
To get at dirt under the nosepads, you can use a small toothbrush. Be careful not to touch the lenses, as the bristles can scratch them. Keep your glasses clean by storing them in a hard case when you're not wearing them, and try to avoid touching the lenses, as you can scratch them and leave behind deposits of oils from your hands. Optometrists also recommend that you remove your glasses with both hands to avoid bending the frames.
You can be surprised by how dirty glasses will get. If you clean your glasses on a regular basis, you might find your life clearer and generally more enjoyable, so you may want to get into the habit of cleaning them at a set time every week or even every day. For quickie touch-ups, carry a soft, lint-free cloth that you can use to gently swab the lenses to remove flecks of dirt and other particles that might obscure your vision.