We’ve all done it. Sat on our glasses. Left them in the car on a 40°C day. Cleaned them with the corner of a jumper. If spectacles came with a list of “what not to do,” most of us would already have broken half the rules.

So, from one clumsy human to another, here’s your no-nonsense, slightly cheeky guide to keeping your glasses safe, clean, and doing what they’re meant to do: help you see without a smudge, crack, or crooked frame in sight.

1. Don’t Clean Your Lenses with Your Shirt (No Matter How Soft It Feels)

It might seem harmless—a quick swipe on your sleeve or the bottom of your T-shirt. But clothing fibres (even the soft ones) can scratch your lenses, especially if there’s dust or grit involved. Over time, you’ll be left with a cloudy haze that no amount of squinting will fix.

Do this instead: Use a microfibre cloth and proper lens cleaner. Or pop into your local Optic Edge branch and ask for a quick lens spray top-up. We’ll sort you out.

2. Don’t Leave Them on the Dashboard (Unless You Like Warped Frames)

The dashboard of a parked car might seem like a safe spot—until the sun turns it into a sauna. Heat warps plastic frames, damages lens coatings, and turns your trusty specs into wonky goggles.

Better idea: Keep a hard case in your glove box or bag. Your glasses deserve a comfy, cool home when not in use.

3. Don’t Wear Them as a Headband (You’re Not a Soap Opera Star)

Wearing your glasses on top of your head might feel convenient, but it’s a fast track to stretched arms and loose hinges. Not to mention, it transfers oils and hair product residue straight to your lenses.

Top tip: If you take your glasses off a lot, invest in a strap or chain (yes, they’re back in fashion). Or just pop them in their case. Your future, non-lopsided glasses will thank you.

4. Don’t Use Tissues or Napkins to Clean Lenses

Tissues might feel soft to the touch, but they’re full of tiny fibres that can scratch your lenses. And don’t even get us started on paper towels or serviettes from a fast-food tray.

What to use instead: That little cloth we gave you? That’s not just for decoration. Pair it with lens cleaner, or rinse your glasses under lukewarm water first to remove debris before drying.

5. Don’t Throw Them in Your Bag Without Protection

This might be the clumsiest offence of all. Loose in a handbag, backpack, or gym bag, your glasses are living among keys, coins, pens, makeup, and snacks… It’s a war zone in there.

Solution: Always carry a hard case. Not one from 2003 that doesn’t close properly, but a new one. Ask in-store—we’ve got options that are stylish and solid.

6. Don’t Ignore That Loose Arm or Wobbly Fit

A wonky pair of glasses isn’t just annoying; it’s also bad for your posture and can lead to neck or eye strain. Most people wait until their specs are practically falling apart before asking for a fix.

Do this instead: Pop into any Optic Edge location for a quick adjustment. We’ll tighten, realign, and send you on your way with a better fit and no judgement.

7. Don’t Sleep in Them (Unless You Want Face-Shaped Frames)

Yes, we’ve seen the Netflix-and-nap aftermath. Glasses bent into pretzel shapes, lenses popped out like toast. It happens.

Pro tip: Make taking off your glasses part of your bedtime routine, and keep your case on the nightstand. Your face and your frames will both look better in the morning.

8. Don’t Use Random Liquids to Clean Them

Window cleaner? Vinegar? Hand sanitiser? Please no. Harsh chemicals can strip lens coatings, especially anti-glare or blue light filters. If you’ve done this before, you’re not alone. But it stops now.

Stick with: Water and mild soap or proper lens spray. And always dry with a clean microfibre cloth.

9. Don’t Let Your Pet Babysit Your Glasses

This isn’t a joke. Pets love to chew things that smell like you. That includes glasses. Dogs will gnaw the arms, cats will knock them off counters. It’s universal.

Safe storage = fewer vet bills and less heartbreak.

10. Don’t Delay Replacing Scratched or Damaged Lenses

If your lenses are scratched or your prescription has changed, don’t soldier on with blurry vision. Life’s too short to squint through tiny cracks.

Book a check-up: Let us check your current prescription and lens condition. We can recommend affordable replacements or upgrades that make a world of difference.

Your Glasses Deserve Better

Spectacles aren’t cheap. But more importantly, they’re your window to the world. With just a little care (and maybe fewer gym bag adventures), they can stay in great condition for years.

At Optic Edge, we love helping people not just find the right frames but look after them, too. From adjustment services to cleaning kits, advice to accessories, we’re here for every clumsy moment.

Need a Tune-Up? We’ve Got You

If you’ve read this and thought, “Oops, I’ve done half of these,” you’re not alone. The good news is that most glasses-related disasters are preventable (or fixable). Come visit us at any Optic Edge location and we’ll help you:

• Adjust bent frames
• Replace scratched lenses
• Get a new hard case or cleaning cloth
• Learn proper lens care in under two minutes

Love Your Lenses, Save Your Sanity

Glasses take care of you. Take care of them back. A few easy habits can make all the difference. Whether you need a deep clean, a quick fix, or just a new cloth that doesn’t smell like pocket lint, we’re here to help.

Taking better care of your glasses not only protects your investment—it protects your eyes. Scratches, loose hinges, or dirty lenses can all lead to poor vision and discomfort. And let’s be honest, it’s no fun constantly adjusting your frames or peering through smudges. That’s why we always say: prevention is better than replacement.

Get into the habit of checking your glasses weekly. Are the arms still straight? Are the lenses clean? Is the case still intact or falling apart at the seams? These small details make a big difference over time. And if you’re not sure, our team at Optic Edge is just a visit away.

We’re not just here to sell you a pair of glasses—we’re here to help you take care of them every step of the way.

Pop in, book online, or give us a ring. Your glasses (and your eyes) will thank you.