There are a few ways to clean cloudy polycarbonate. The simplest way is to use a mild detergent and water. Another way is to use a mixture of vinegar and water. Finally, you can use a commercial cleaner specifically designed for polycarbonate.
Let’s face it: Even the most glamorous of eyewear can stand to be more glamorous. That is, until you see them fog up and get that creepy-crawly-insect-under-a-rock feeling. Eek! Gross. Disgusting. Yuck. That’s right, your sunglasses are disgusting and gross—when they’re dirty. When they’re clean? Well, that’s when they become amazing again! And that, my friends, leaves us with a slight dilemma: How do we keep our beloved glasses from getting so disgusting?
Thankfully, there are some tricks to help keep your lenses from turning into creepy crawly bugs again. Here are a handful of helpful tips on how to clean cloudy polycarbonate and keep it clean…
What Is Polycarbonate?
Polycarbonate is a synthetic, thermoplastic material that is used in a variety of products, including eyeglass frames, sports helmets, drinking bottles, and automobile components. It is one of the most widely used plastics in the world and is considered a durable, lightweight material. In the context of eyewear, polycarbonate (PC) is used to make the frame and the lenses. PC lenses are very common in sunglasses and other eyewear. They are also less expensive than other lens materials, like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).
PC lenses are a lighter color than other lens materials, which some people prefer. But PC leaves a slight yellow tint on the lens, which is noticeable when looking through the glasses in bright light. PC also is less impact-resistant than other lens materials, so it isn’t a good choice for sports or other high-impact activities.
Drying Agent
If you have a material that’s prone to fogging, the best way to clean it is to dry it. Depending on the type of fogging, try a few different methods of drying your glasses. For simple water stains, use a soft cloth or paper towel to blot the lenses dry. If your glasses are fogging up due to sweat or humidity, you can use a tissue or paper towel to blot the lenses dry. If you have a specific cleaning solution, feel free to use that to wipe the lenses dry. Just make sure to wipe the glasses dry thoroughly before wearing again.
Vinegar and Water Solution
As you may have guessed, this solution is best used on dirty PC lenses. It works best if you have a microfiber cloth to wipe the lenses with. For a cleaning solution, mix 1 cup water to 1 tbsp of vinegar. Mix the solution together in a container, then pour it into a spray bottle for easy application. Spray the solution on your lenses, then wipe them clean with a microfiber cloth. You can also pour the solution onto the cloth and then wipe your lenses with the cloth. Repeat this process until your lenses look clean.
Brush With a Dampened Towel
If your lenses are just a little cloudy, you may be able to salvage them with a simple cleaning. First, dampen a clean microfiber cloth or paper towel. Then, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the lenses clean. Make sure to use a soft-bristled brush, as hard bristles could scratch your lenses. You can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your glasses if you don’t have a special cleaning brush. Be careful, though, as the bristles on some toothbrushes can scratch plastic lenses.
Microfiber Cloths
First, make sure the lenses are clean. Then, simply use a microfiber cloth to buff the lenses. This method will help remove scratches and will leave your glasses with a nice shine. If the lenses are very dirty, try scrubbing them with a microfiber cloth. Make sure to scrub gently, as you don’t want to scratch the lenses. You can also use microfiber cloths to clean the frames of your glasses. Just note that you want to avoid using microfiber cloths on metal or plastic frames, as the cloths could damage the frames.
Conclusion
The best way to keep your sunglasses clean is to be mindful of how they get dirty in the first place! If they are left in a hot car, or in the sun, then they will get dirty and be hard to clean. If you take them off when you are indoors or if it is raining, then you won’t have to worry about cleaning them as often. Also, remember that sunglasses are an investment, so take care of them and they will serve you well for years to come!