Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Storage Habits That Ruin Sunglasses often go unnoticed—until it’s too late. Have you ever reached for your favorite pair only to find them scratched, bent, or broken? It’s frustrating, especially after investing in quality eyewear. The truth is, most damage doesn’t happen while wearing them—it happens during storage.
Improper habits can quietly destroy your lenses, frames, and UV protection over time. If you love your shades and want to make them last, it’s time to rethink how you store them. Let’s break down six awful storage habits that ruin sunglasses—and how to fix them.
Leaving Sunglasses in a Hot Car
Your car might seem like a convenient place to stash your sunglasses, but heat is one of their worst enemies.
Why It’s Harmful:
- Extreme temperatures can warp plastic frames
- Coatings on lenses (like anti-reflective or mirrored finishes) may bubble or crack
- Glues that hold frames together can weaken
Better Alternative:
Keep a small sunglass case in your bag or center console. If you must leave them in the car, store them in a protective hard-shell case out of direct sunlight.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, prolonged heat exposure can degrade lens coatings and reduce the effectiveness of UV protection.
Tossing Them in Your Purse or Backpack
We’ve all done it—dropped our sunglasses into a tote or bag without a second thought. But this habit invites damage from all directions.
Common Consequences:
- Lenses get scratched by keys, pens, or coins
- Frames bend or snap under pressure
- Loose hinges from constant friction
Fix It:
Use a microfiber pouch or rigid sunglass case to store your shades before putting them in any bag. Not only does it protect them, but it also keeps the lenses clean.
Setting Them Lens-Down on Surfaces
One of the quickest ways to scratch your lenses is to set your sunglasses face-down on a table, desk, or countertop.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Hard surfaces can permanently scratch polarized or mirrored lenses
- Even seemingly “clean” surfaces can harbor dust or debris that abrade lenses
Do This Instead:
Always place your sunglasses with the lenses facing upward. Or better yet, place them in a case when not in use.
Skipping a Case Altogether
If you’re not using a dedicated case, you’re relying on chance to keep your sunglasses safe—and that rarely ends well.
Problems That Occur:
- Increased likelihood of accidental drops or pressure damage
- No protection from environmental elements (sand, water, dust)
- Greater exposure to UV degradation when left exposed
Pro Tip:
Invest in a high-quality case that fits your sunglasses snugly. Look for options lined with microfiber and reinforced with hard exteriors.
Cleaning with Clothing or Tissues
It might seem harmless to wipe your lenses with the corner of your shirt or a tissue, but it’s actually one of the most damaging habits.
Dangers of Improper Cleaning:
- Tiny fibers in tissues or fabrics cause micro-scratches
- Oils and dirt on clothes can smear or degrade lens coatings
- Long-term wear affects visual clarity and UV protection
Correct Method:
Use a lens-specific microfiber cloth and lens cleaning spray, both of which are designed to clean without scratching or smearing.
Experts at Allure emphasize the importance of using proper tools for cleaning eyewear to preserve lens clarity and lifespan.
Hanging Them on Your Shirt Collar
It might look stylish, but letting your sunglasses dangle from your shirt is risky business.
Risks Involved:
- Easily fall and get scratched or crushed
- Pressure from shirt seams can bend frames
- Exposure to body oils and sweat that degrade materials
Safer Option:
Use a sunglasses neck strap or slip them into a case when not on your face. This prevents accidental drops and keeps them clean.
Summary Table: Bad Habits vs. Best Practices
| Awful Storage Habit | Why It’s Harmful | What to Do Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Leaving in hot car | Warps plastic, damages coatings | Store in shaded, hard-shell case |
| Tossing into a bag | Scratches, bends, loose hinges | Use microfiber pouch or rigid case |
| Setting lens-down | Scratches lenses | Set lens-up or store in a case |
| No protective case | No physical protection | Invest in a durable, padded case |
| Cleaning with shirt/tissue | Scratches and smears | Use microfiber cloth and lens-safe cleaner |
| Hanging on shirt collar | Risk of falling, exposure to sweat/oils | Use a strap or case |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the most common storage habits that ruin sunglasses?
Some of the worst habits include leaving sunglasses in a hot car, storing them loose in a bag, setting them face down, or not using a case at all.
Can improper storage reduce UV protection in sunglasses?
Yes. According to WebMD, exposure to heat and physical damage can impact UV-blocking coatings, reducing effectiveness.
Is a microfiber pouch enough to protect sunglasses?
A microfiber pouch offers minimal protection from scratches, but for impact safety, a hard-shell case is better.
How should I clean my sunglasses without damaging them?
Always use a microfiber cloth and cleaning spray designed specifically for lenses. Avoid tissues, shirts, or household cleaners.
Final Thoughts: Treat Your Shades Right
Your sunglasses do more than make a fashion statement—they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and enhance your comfort outdoors. By avoiding these six awful storage habits that ruin sunglasses, you can extend the life of your favorite pair and keep them looking sharp.
Share this article with your fellow shade-lovers and explore more eye-saving tips on our blog!
