How to Take Care of Your Glasses This Winter

As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, it’s easy to forget about your sunglasses. After all, you're probably not spending as much time outside in bright, sunny conditions. However, sunglasses still play an important role in protecting your eyes during the winter months, and keeping them in top shape is just as crucial during cold weather. Whether you're hitting the slopes or simply braving the chill outdoors, here’s your complete guide to properly caring for your sunglasses when the cold weather hits. 

Why Sunglasses Are Important in Winter 

It might seem like sunglasses are only needed in the summer when the sun is blazing, but winter has its own set of challenges for your eyes. Cold winds, snow, and even cloud cover can all cause eye strain and discomfort if you're not careful. The sun can be especially harsh in winter, reflecting off the snow and ice, which can intensify UV exposure and increase the risk of eye damage. Wearing sunglasses in winter also helps protect your eyes from the drying effects of cold, windy air. Plus, they can enhance your vision during those overcast days when the light is dimmer, improving contrast and reducing glare. 

1. Keep Them Clean, The Right Way

Even though you might not be using your sunglasses as much during winter, it’s still important to keep them clean. Dirt, oil, and dust can build up on your lenses, making it harder to see and maybe even scratching the surface. 

• Use a microfiber cloth: Always clean your lenses with a soft microfiber cloth, never with your shirt or paper towels. Using harsh materials can cause tiny scratches that will affect the lenses clarity. 

• Clean your lenses regularly: Even if you’re not wearing them as often, make it a habit to give them a quick clean when you do use them. This prevents dust and debris from building up, which can scratch the lenses. 

• Avoid household cleaners: Steer clear of using glass cleaners or other household products that can damage the lens coatings. Stick with lens specific cleaners that are safe for your sunglasses. 

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2. Store Them Properly

How you store your sunglasses can make all the difference in how long they last, especially in the colder months when they are more likely to be exposed to harsh conditions. 

• Use a protective case: When not in use, store your sunglasses in a hard case. This helps protect the lenses and frame from getting scratched, bent, or broken. Make sure the case is kept in a dry, temperature controlled area. Extreme temperatures, either hot or cold, can weaken the frame material and cause the lenses to warp. 

• Avoid leaving them in your car: During the colder months, the temperature inside your car can fluctuate, which can cause the lenses to expand or contract. This is especially true with polarized lenses, which are more sensitive to heat. If you need to leave your sunglasses in your car for a short time, make sure they’re in a safe, shaded area. However, it’s always best to bring them inside. 

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3. Be Mindful of Cold Temperatures

Cold weather can affect both the lenses and the frames of your sunglasses. Most sunglasses are designed to be durable, but extreme cold can still cause damage if you’re not careful. 

• Avoid sudden temperature changes: Moving sunglasses between extremely cold outdoor conditions and warm indoor environments can cause condensation to form on the lenses. This can be frustrating and damage the lenses over time. 

• Handle with care: Sunglasses frames made of plastic or metal can become brittle in cold temperatures. This increases the risk of the frame snapping or becoming misshapen. Always handle your sunglasses with care, especially if you're transitioning between indoors and outdoors. 

4. Protect the Lenses from Scratches

Scratches are one of the most common ways sunglasses get damaged, and they can happen more easily in the winter when sunglasses are stored improperly or exposed to harsh conditions. Avoiding scratches requires a little extra attention during the colder months. 

• Don’t set them down on rough surfaces: Whether it’s a snowy bench or a rock at the ski lodge, avoid setting your sunglasses directly on rough or dirty surfaces. These surfaces can transfer particles that scratch the lens if you’re not careful. 

• Use a lens cleaning spray: If you’re cleaning your lenses in the field, make sure to use a spray designed for sunglasses. This helps to gently lift dirt and debris without scraping them across the lens surface. 

• Avoid wiping dry lenses: If your sunglasses have been exposed to the cold or snow, give them a gentle rinse with water to remove debris before cleaning them. Wiping dry lenses with a cloth can grind dirt into the surface and cause scratches. 

5. Check the Fit and Adjust the Frames

The colder months can sometimes cause changes in how sunglasses fit, due to extra clothing layers or activities. Make sure your sunglasses are still fitting properly to ensure comfort and performance. 

• Adjust the nose pads and temples: If you’re wearing a hat or scarf, make sure your sunglasses still fit comfortably. Some frames, like Fuse’s Caladesi or Archer, allow for minor adjustments to the nose pads, ensuring a snug and secure fit even if you're layering up for the cold. 

• Test for slipping or discomfort: When you're active in winter sports, like skiing or snowboarding, you might notice your sunglasses slipping more than usual. A slight adjustment of the frame can help keep them securely in place. 

6. Know When It’s Time to Replace the Lenses

Over time, no matter how well you take care of them, your sunglasses lenses will experience wear and tear. It’s important to know when it’s time to replace your lenses to ensure you’re still getting the best performance. 

• Check for scratches or chips: If your lenses have noticeable scratches or chips, they can impair vision and make it harder to see clearly. Consider replacing the lenses to ensure they continue to protect your eyes and enhance your vision.

• Consider upgrading your lenses: If you're noticing that your lenses aren’t performing as well in bright winter conditions, it may be time to upgrade. Fuse Lenses offers replacement lenses ,for any name brand frame, designed to handle a variety of outdoor activities, including winter sports. We offer a wide array of different finishes and technologies in our lenses, so you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll love. Plus, the ordering process is all online and easier than ever.

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Summary:

• Winter weather can be harsh and damaging to your glasses.

• During cold weather, keep your glasses secure and clean

• Fuse can replace the lenses in any frame for a fresh, brand new feel

Taking care of your sunglasses during the colder months is essential for ensuring they last and continue to provide top notch protection for your eyes. By storing them properly, cleaning them regularly, and being mindful of how cold weather affects both the lenses and frames, you can keep your sunglasses in great shape all winter long. So, stay proactive, and your sunglasses will be ready for every adventure, whether you're on the slopes or enjoying a winter hike.