Can Ultrasonic Cleaners Help with Eyeglasses? Here’s the Answer

If you wear glasses every day, you know the struggle—smudges that seem to reappear seconds after you clean them, fingerprints you can’t quite wipe away, and stubborn grime hiding around the nose pads or hinges. Even with a microfiber cloth and lens spray, it’s tough to get that fresh-out-of-the-optician sparkle. That’s where ultrasonic cleaners come in. These devices use high-frequency sound waves to give your eyewear a deep, gentle clean. But are they safe for your glasses? Let’s break down how they work, the pros and cons, and the best way to use them.

How Ultrasonic Cleaners Work

Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency sound waves—usually between 20,000 and 40,000 Hz—passed through water (or a cleaning solution) to create tiny, energetic bubbles. This process, called cavitation, gently loosens dirt, oil, and debris from surfaces.

For eyeglasses, that means the cleaner can reach every nook and cranny—between the lens and frame, around screws, and along the edges—without the need for scrubbing. Compared to wiping with a cloth, ultrasonic cleaning removes microscopic debris you can’t even see, making your glasses look and feel brand new.

Are Ultrasonic Cleaners Safe for Eyeglasses?

In most cases, yes—but with a few important caveats.

• Lens materials: Glass, polycarbonate, and plastic lenses can all be cleaned ultrasonically without damage.
• Lens coatings: Anti-reflective coatings, scratch-resistant layers, and blue-light filters are generally safe, but only if they’re intact. If the coating is peeling or damaged, ultrasonic cleaning could make it worse.
• Frame materials: Metal and most plastic frames handle ultrasonic cleaning well, but delicate or vintage frames may require extra caution.

Always check your glasses manufacturer’s care instructions first. If in doubt, your optician can confirm whether ultrasonic cleaning is safe for your specific pair. For a reliable, gentle clean at home, many eyewear owners choose the Creworks ultrasonic cleaner for eyeglasses. It uses powerful yet precise sound waves to remove dirt and smudges without scratching lenses, making it a convenient option for keeping your glasses spotless between professional cleanings.

Benefits of Using Ultrasonic Cleaners for Eyewear

1. Deep cleaning – Removes dirt from places you can’t reach with a cloth.
2. Gentle on lenses – No rubbing means less risk of scratches.
3. Time-saving – A thorough clean in just a couple of minutes.
4. Convenience – Great for regular maintenance at home or in an office setting.

The result? Clearer vision and frames that feel fresh without constant wiping.

Step-by-Step: Cleaning Eyeglasses in an Ultrasonic Cleaner

1. Check compatibility – Make sure your glasses can be cleaned this way.
2. Fill the tank – Use clean water, adding a small amount of mild cleaning solution if recommended.
3. Insert your glasses – Place them in the cleaning basket, not directly on the tank bottom.
4. Set the timer – One to three minutes is usually enough.
5. Rinse and dry – Gently rinse with fresh water and dry with a microfiber cloth.

If you’re unsure which cleaning solution works best, Creworks also has a helpful guide on what liquid to use in an ultrasonic cleaner to help you get the most effective and safe results for your eyeglasses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using harsh or abrasive cleaning agents.
• Running the machine for too long (over-cleaning won’t make them cleaner).
• Cleaning cracked, chipped, or peeling lenses, which can worsen damage.

Alternatives If You Don’t Have an Ultrasonic Cleaner

If you don’t have a unit at home, you can:

• Use warm water, mild dish soap, and a microfiber cloth for a gentle clean.
• Ask your local optician—many offer free ultrasonic cleaning as a courtesy.

The Bottom Line

Ultrasonic cleaners can be a safe and highly effective way to restore clarity to your eyeglasses, provided your lenses and frames are in good condition. They’re fast, gentle, and thorough—making them a worthwhile tool for anyone who wants to keep their vision crystal clear. Before you start, double-check your eyewear’s compatibility. Then sit back, press the button, and enjoy the satisfying sparkle of freshly cleaned lenses.