Yes, you absolutely can wash your glasses wiper, which is typically a microfiber cleaning cloth. Cleaning it regularly helps remove the dirt, oils, and debris it collects, ensuring it remains effective at cleaning your lenses without just pushing grime around or potentially scratching them.
How to Clean Your Glasses Wiper Cloth Effectively
Keeping your microfiber glasses cloth clean is essential for maintaining the clarity and longevity of your lenses. Fortunately, cleaning the cloth itself is a simple process.
Based on recommendations, the best way to clean your glasses wiper cloth is by hand.
Recommended Hand Washing Method
Hand washing is generally the most gentle and effective method to preserve the delicate fibers of your cloth, allowing it to last longer and continue cleaning optimally.
Here are the recommended steps for hand washing:
- Use cold water and mild soap. Harsh detergents or fabric softeners can damage the microfiber's structure, reducing its effectiveness.
- Place the microfiber cloth in the soapy water and leave it to soak for a few minutes. This helps loosen embedded dirt and oils.
- Gently rub the cloth together to work out any remaining residue.
- Rinse the cloth thoroughly again with cold water until all soap residue is gone.
- Allow the cloth to air dry completely. Avoid using a dryer, as high heat can also damage the fibers.
Using a Washing Machine
While hand washing is often advised for maximum longevity, cleaning it in a washing machine can be effective and is certainly more convenient. However, there's a significant caveat:
- Although effective, cleaning it in a washing machine can damage the cloth if it is done too often.
If you choose to use a washing machine, follow these tips to minimize potential damage:
- Wash it separately or with other microfiber items.
- Use a mild detergent and cold water.
- Avoid fabric softeners or bleach.
- Use a gentle cycle.
- Always air dry; do not put it in the dryer.
Here's a quick comparison of the methods:
| Method | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Hand Wash | Most gentle, preserves cloth longevity | Requires manual effort, takes a few minutes |
| Machine Wash | Convenient, good for multiple cloths | Can damage cloth if done too often, avoid heat & softeners |
By washing your glasses wiper cloth using these methods, you can keep your glasses sparkling clean and extend the life of your cleaning cloth.
