Wiping glasses with toilet paper is generally not recommended. Toilet paper can leave behind lint, fibers, and dust that can scratch the lenses or degrade the coatings on glasses. However, in a pinch when no other cleaning supplies are available, using toilet paper to give glasses a quick wipe can remove obvious smudges and debris.
Quick Answer
The quick answer is no, toilet paper is not ideal for cleaning eyeglasses. While it may work in a pinch, toilet paper can scratch lenses, leave behind lint/fibers, and is not designed for cleaning delicate lenses. Optical experts recommend using a proper eyeglass cleaning cloth, lens cleaner, or eyeglass-safe tissue instead.
Why You Should Not Use Toilet Paper
There are a few key reasons why toilet paper is not recommended for wiping eyeglasses:
Scratching
Toilet paper is designed to be durable enough to cleanse and scrape, not delicately wipe smooth glass or plastic. The fibers in toilet paper can therefore scratch glasses. Scratches damage lenses by degrading optical quality and clarity of vision.
Lint and Dust
Toilet paper is highly fibrous and can leave traces of lint, fiber remnants, and dust on lenses. This debris can be abrasive over time. Lint and dust can also get trapped in nose pads or hinges.
Ineffective Cleaning
Toilet paper is absorbent but not formulated with surfactants or cleaning agents to break down oils, grease, etc. It therefore does a poor job fully cleaning lenses compared to proper glass cleaner. Smudges, fingerprints, etc may still be left behind.
Coating Damage
Many glasses have special coatings applied to the lenses to repel water, oil, and glare. The fibers in toilet paper can slowly degrade these coatings, diminishing their effectiveness over time.
When Can You Use Toilet Paper?
While not recommended, toilet paper can be cautiously used in a pinch if no other cleaning options are available. Here are some instances where it may be acceptable to use toilet paper:
Emergency Situations
If you are out and about without any eyeglass cleaner or cloth, toilet paper from a public restroom can work in an emergency to wipe obvious smudges or dirt off lenses.
Quick Dry Wipe
If glasses just need a quick dry wipe to remove dust or debris, a fresh piece of toilet paper may suffice if you are very gentle. Be sure to use a light touch.
Between Deep Cleanings
Toilet paper can be used lightly in between full cleanings with glass cleaner and microfiber. But be sure to do full cleanings daily or regularly.
Tips for Using Toilet Paper
If you have to use toilet paper on eyeglasses, here are some tips to minimize potential scratches and damage:
Use a Light Touch
Wipe lenses very gently to avoid grinding any fibers against the glass or plastic. Do not scrub or use any pressure.
Go With the Grain
Wipe parallel with any visible grain in the lenses rather than circular rubbing motions.
Use Fresh, Dry Sections
Use only fresh, unused sections of toilet paper to avoid any moisture, debris, or contaminants from other surfaces.
Inspect for Lint
Check lenses closely and remove any lint, fibers, or dust left behind by the toilet paper.
Follow With Proper Cleaning
As soon as possible, clean glasses thoroughly with appropriate spray cleaner and soft microfiber cloth.
Better Alternatives to Toilet Paper
While toilet paper may work in a true pinch, it is far from ideal. Here are some better options for safely cleaning eyeglasses:
Microfiber Cloth
A lint-free microfiber cloth designed for lenses will not scratch. Gently wipe lenses to remove smudges and oils.
Eyeglass Spray Cleaner
Spray cleaner formulated for lenses breaks up oils, grease, and debris without scratching. Use with a soft cloth.
Eyeglass Wipes
Pre-moistened wipes with cleaning solution instantly clean lenses and conveniently pack for on-the-go.
DIY Eyeglass Cleaner
Make your own by mixing a couple drops of mild dish soap into a spray bottle filled with water. Spray and wipe.
Steps for Properly Cleaning Glasses
Follow these steps for keeping glasses looking their best:
- Rinse lenses under warm running water to remove loose particles.
- Spray both sides of lenses with eyeglass cleaner.
- Gently wipe lenses clean using a soft microfiber cloth.
- Repeat spray and wipe steps as needed for stubborn debris.
- Rinse under water again to remove any cleaner residue.
- Dry lenses thoroughly with a fresh cloth or towel.
- Use dry microfiber cloth to polish lenses and remove any final spots or streaks.
How Often Should You Clean Glasses?
For clear vision and to maintain the integrity of your lenses, eye doctors recommend cleaning glasses daily or every other day at minimum. However, glasses may need cleaning more than once a day if exposed to lots of dust, grease, sunscreen, etc. A good rule of thumb is to clean glasses any time lenses appear dirty, smudgy, or streaky.
Can Toilet Paper Damage Glasses Permanently?
With regular or excessive use over time, toilet paper can permanently damage eyeglass lenses and coatings. The tiny scratches caused by fibers can build up resulting in impaired vision and scratched lenses. Coatings also gradually break down from abrasion.
However, occasional, gentle use of toilet paper in a pinch is unlikely to cause permanent damage. The risk comes from making it a habit instead of a last resort.
Table Comparing Toilet Paper and Proper Eyeglass Cleaners
| Toilet Paper | Microfiber Cloth | Spray Cleaner | Eyeglass Wipes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scratching | High risk | Low risk | Low risk | Low risk |
| Cleansing Ability | Poor | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Lint Residue | Yes | No | No | No |
| Convenience | Fair | Good | Fair | Excellent |
| Portability | Fair | Fair | Poor | Excellent |
| Dry or Wet Wipe | Dry | Dry | Wet | Wet |
Tips for Keeping Glasses Clean
Practice these habits for minimizing the need to clean eyeglasses:
- Handle glasses by the frames to avoid lens smudges
- Store glasses in a protective case when not worn
- Drape glasses over neckline rather than setting lenses down
- Clean lenses daily or whenever smudged
- Rinse glasses after wearing sunscreen or lotions
- Use anti-reflective lens coatings
- Carry a glasses cleaning kit for on-the-go cleanings
Warning Signs Glasses Need Cleaning
Be on the lookout for these cues that your eyeglasses need a good cleaning:
- Smudges, smears, or fingerprints on lenses
- Dust, dandruff, or debris on frames or lenses
- Oily residue or greasy film on lenses
- Cloudy, hazy appearance instead of crystal clear
- Increase in glare or reflections
- Reduced optical sharpness or visual acuity
- Need to squint or strain to see through lenses
Conclusion
While toilet paper may work in a true emergency to wipe eyeglasses, it is not recommended. The fibers can leave scratches and abrasions on lenses and degrade protective coatings. For routine cleaning, be sure to use lint-free microfiber cloths, alcohol-free spray solutions, and eyeglass wipes formulated for lenses and frames. With proper daily cleaning and care, glasses will provide crisp, undistorted vision while keeping your eyes healthy and happy.