How to keep your glasses looking (and feeling) brand new
Glasses are everyday companions. Designed for life outside, FORA glasses go wherever you go. And because we want them to look like the day you first wore them, here’s a simple guide to keeping them in great shape:
1. Daily care: the basics
Good habits make great eyewear last longer. Use both hands when putting on or taking off your glasses, gripping by the frame instead of the lenses to avoid bending and fingerprints. When not wearing your glasses, keep them in a case, preferably a semi-rigid case in case they’ll travel inside a bag or pocket.
2. Cleaning: do it right
Use a microfiber cloth. Never use tissues, shirts, or paper towels, as they can scratch lenses. Always opt for a soft microfiber cloth (like the FORA cleaning cloth that came with your glasses) and start with a gentle wipe. No pressure needed. Dust and grit are sneaky. Before you wipe, rinse your lenses under lukewarm water, gently shake off excess and wipe with a microfiber cloth. This prevents dust particles from scratching when you wipe. For stubborn smudges, use a lens-safe cleaner (we recommend gentle, ammonia-free). Spray the cleaner on both sides of the lens and finish with a microfiber cloth.
3. Storage: protect the details
The way you store your glasses says a lot about how long they’ll last. Always keep them in their case, even for “just a sec”. Don’t leave your glasses on a hot dashboard or near heaters. Extreme heat can warp frames and degrade lens coatings.
4. Avoid harsh chemicals
Life outside doesn’t wait for perfect conditions. Our best tips:
- Always carry a microfiber cloth in your bag or pocket.
- Avoid chemicals like sprays, sunscreen, bug repellents or cleaning wipes. Many contain harsh substances that can damage coatings.
- If it’s just dust, a spray clean followed by a soft wipe does more than you think.
5. Let us help: adjustments & repairs
Frames can loosen over time. That’s normal. In most of our FORA stores, we offer minor adjustments (nose pad tweaks, hinge tightening), professional cleaning and repairs, when needed. Pop in our stores and let us take a look.
6. What not to do (seriously)
- Do not wipe dry lenses with rough fabric
- Do not lay glasses down with the lenses facing a surface
- Do not expose them to heat or chemicals
- Do not bend or twist the frame unnecessarily
Treat them thoughtfully (they were designed that way).
7. When to replace your glasses
Even the best glasses change over time. You might consider a check or refresh if vision feels “off” or blurry, lenses have scratches that interfere with sight or the frames feel loose and uncomfortable. If you’ve had them for years and want an upgrade, that's also valid.