Maintenance & Care4 min readNovember 18, 2025

How to Clean & Care for Anti-Reflective Coated Lenses Without Damaging Them

Avoid the most common eyewear mistakes. Learn optometrist-approved techniques to prevent scratches, preserve lens coatings and prolong frame life.

MK

Martin Kago

Lead Optical Technician • St. Mary Optical Team

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How to Clean & Care for Anti-Reflective Coated Lenses Without Damaging Them - eye care guide by St Mary Optical Nairobi
Key Clinical Takeaways
  • Never wipe dry lenses with clothing or paper towels—microscopic dust particles act like sandpaper.
  • Avoid hot water and harsh household window cleaners that strip delicate anti-reflective coatings.
  • Use pH-neutral optical cleaning spray with high-density microfiber cloths for pristine clarity.

The 3 Most Damaging Eyewear Habits

1. Dry Wiping with Shirts or Tissues: Cotton fibers and wood-pulp tissues contain abrasive micro-particles that leave permanent micro-scratches on delicate lens surfaces.

2. Using Household Glass Cleaners: Ammonia, alcohol and bleach aggressively degrade anti-reflective and hydrophobic coating layers, causing cloudy crazing.

3. Exposing Glasses to High Heat: Leaving glasses on car dashboards or wearing them near hot ovens warps acetate frames and cracks lens coatings.

The Safe Daily Wash Routine

Rinse glasses under lukewarm tap water first to wash away loose grit. Apply a drop of optical lens spray or mild lotion-free dish soap, gently massage with fingertips, rinse and dry with a clean microfiber cloth.

Caring for Your Microfiber Cloth

A dirty microfiber cloth re-deposits facial oils and trapped dust onto your lenses. Wash your microfiber cloths weekly in warm water with mild soap without fabric softeners and let them air dry.

Complimentary In-Clinic Ultrasonic Servicing

Over time, temple screws loosen and nose pads accumulate skin oils. We offer complimentary ultrasonic cleaning, screw tightening and anatomical realignment at our Githurai 45 clinic anytime you stop by.

Tags:#Lens Care#Anti-Reflective#Microfiber#Eyewear Maintenance
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Have questions about your prescription or eyewear needs?

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam or custom frame styling consultation with our clinical specialists at Sama House, Githurai 45.

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