5 Ways to Repair Scratched Glasses – DIY Fixes That Might Save Your Frames

How it works: Sometimes scratches are actually dirt or trapped residue.

What to do:

Use lens cleaning spray with a microfiber cloth.

Gently wipe in circles.

Never dry-wipe your lenses.

💡 Tip: Avoid tissues, paper towels, or clothing—they cause scratches.

4. 🧴 Commercial Lens Polish

How it works: Special polishes designed for minor scratches on plastic lenses.

Examples:

Novacan Opti-Clean

Peet Bros. Anti-Scratch Polish

Warner Lens Renew Kit

What to do:

Follow product instructions.

Buff gently with a soft cloth.

🛒 Where to buy: Available online or at optical stores.

5. 🔁 Replace the Lenses (Smart Long-Term Fix)

If your frames are still in great shape but the lenses are beyond repair:

What to do: Replace just the lenses.
Where:

Local optical shops

Online services (EyeBuyDirect, Zenni Optical, Warby Parker)

👉 Bonus: Choose scratch-resistant, anti-reflective, or blue-light lenses for better protection.

🚫 What About Other Methods?

Avoid these common DIY “hacks”:
❌ Car Wax — Leaves residue, can cloud vision.
❌ Glass Etching Cream — Destroys lens coatings.
❌ Rubbing Alcohol — Damages coatings.
❌ Nail Polish or Glue — Temporary; worsens visibility.

🧾 Final Thoughts

While none of these tricks will fully restore scratched lenses to factory condition, they can reduce visibility of minor scuffs and extend the life of your glasses. If you’re waiting for insurance coverage or budgeting for a new pair, these fixes can buy you some time.

👉 Best advice: Use protective cases, avoid wiping with tissues or shirts, and invest in scratch-resistant coatings when you replace your lenses.

How it works: Sometimes scratches are actually dirt or trapped residue.

What to do:

Use lens cleaning spray with a microfiber cloth.

Gently wipe in circles.

Never dry-wipe your lenses.

💡 Tip: Avoid tissues, paper towels, or clothing—they cause scratches.

4. 🧴 Commercial Lens Polish

How it works: Special polishes designed for minor scratches on plastic lenses.

Examples:

Novacan Opti-Clean

Peet Bros. Anti-Scratch Polish

Warner Lens Renew Kit

What to do:

Follow product instructions.

Buff gently with a soft cloth.

🛒 Where to buy: Available online or at optical stores.

5. 🔁 Replace the Lenses (Smart Long-Term Fix)

If your frames are still in great shape but the lenses are beyond repair:

What to do: Replace just the lenses.
Where:

Local optical shops

Online services (EyeBuyDirect, Zenni Optical, Warby Parker)

👉 Bonus: Choose scratch-resistant, anti-reflective, or blue-light lenses for better protection.

🚫 What About Other Methods?

Avoid these common DIY “hacks”:
❌ Car Wax — Leaves residue, can cloud vision.
❌ Glass Etching Cream — Destroys lens coatings.
❌ Rubbing Alcohol — Damages coatings.
❌ Nail Polish or Glue — Temporary; worsens visibility.

🧾 Final Thoughts

While none of these tricks will fully restore scratched lenses to factory condition, they can reduce visibility of minor scuffs and extend the life of your glasses. If you’re waiting for insurance coverage or budgeting for a new pair, these fixes can buy you some time.

👉 Best advice: Use protective cases, avoid wiping with tissues or shirts, and invest in scratch-resistant coatings when you replace your lenses.

Leave a Comment