Sunglasses are more than just a summer accessory — they protect your eyes year-round. Whether you’re shielding your eyes from the summer sun or winter glare, it’s important to keep your sunglasses in top condition so they’ll always be ready when you need them. Here’s how to store and care for your sunglasses throughout the year.

Use a Protective Case

Always store your sunglasses in a hard-shell case when not in use. This will protect them from scratches, dust, debris, and accidental bumps. Soft pouches are convenient, but they don’t offer the same level of protection as a sturdy case with a soft lining. 

Choose a case that fits your sunglasses snugly to avoid movement that can cause lens scratches or frame warping. 

Clean Them Properly

Regular cleaning helps extend the life of your sunglasses. Using a microfiber cloth and a lens-safe cleaner, wipe away fingerprints and debris. Avoid using paper towels, tissues, or your shirt — these can scratch the lenses.

DIY Cleaner: Rinse the lenses to remove loose debris, then mix a drop of mild dish soap with lukewarm water. Rinse the lenses, gently rub with your fingers, and dry with a microfiber cloth.

Never use hot water, hard chemicals, lotion, or household cleaners, such as Windex, as they can damage lens coatings. 

Avoid Heat and Direct Sunlight

Extreme heat can warp and melt frames and damage lens coatings. Cold temperatures can make the lenses brittle and prone to cracking.  Never leave your sunglasses in hot places, such as a car dashboard or near a heater, or in cold places, such as your car overnight in the winter. 

To keep your sunglasses from becoming damaged, store them in a cool, dry spot instead. 

Check Screws and Hinges

Over time, screws and hinges can loosen due to wear and tear. Every few months, inspect your sunglasses and tighten any loose screws. You can buy an eyeglass repair kit (typically includes a magnifier, small screwdriver, and backup screws) at most stores for an easy DIY fix, however, you can stop by and have a professional fix your glasses if you are missing a scew and don’t have a match or can’t get them adjusted properly.

If you choose to fix your glasses on your own, be careful not to quickly or over tighten the scews as this could crack the frame.

Store Them Correctly in the Off-Season

If you switch between sunglasses and regular glasses depending on the season, make sure you store your sunglasses in a clean, dry drawer or a protective box. Avoid throwing them in a junk drawer or cupboard where other items can scratch the lenses and damage the frame. 

Consider including a silica gel packet to absorb moisture and prevent lens fogging or frame corrosion. 

Handle Them With Care

Handle your sunglasses with clean hands to minimize smudges and maintain clarity, and only touch the lenses on the edge if you have to handle them. Avoid wearing them on the top of your head, as the shape of the glasses can become distorted, the hinges can loosen, and the nose pads and temples can become damaged. You also risk getting hair oils and styling products on your lenses. 

Additionally, always handle your sunglasses by holding both temples. Grabbing them by one can wear down the shape and stability of that temple and make it more prone to breaking or bending. However, if the temples do become bent, gently adjust them back to the proper shape. 

Rotate Pairs if You Have Multiple

If you have multiple pairs of sunglasses, make sure you regularly rotate between them to extend the life of each pair. Plus, having a backup ensures you’re never caught without eye protection.

Know When It’s Time for a Replacement

No matter how careful you are and how well you take care of your sunglasses, they will eventually wear out. If the lenses are scratched, the UV coating has worn off, or the frames are warped beyond repair, it’s time for a new pair. 

Take Care of Your Sunglasses No Matter the Time of Year 

Taking care of your sunglasses is about more than just preserving their look — it’s about protecting your eyes and making your investment last. With proper cleaning, careful storage, and seasonal maintenance, you can keep your shades in great shape all year long. Whether you wear them daily or only on sunny summer days, a little attention goes a long way in keeping your sunglasses scratch-free, functional, and stylish, no matter the season.