We all know how it goes - you keep your sunglasses in your car’s center console and the next time you pull them out you can’t see through the scratched lenses, or your mom shows up for a surprise visit and greets you with glasses crushing hug. We don’t want that to happen to you! Here are a few easy tips and tricks to make sure you get the most out of your Proof frames.

1. Keep those Frames clean
Make sure you’re regularly cleaning your glasses - not only will it make looking through them a lot easier, but it will also keep them looking newer for longer.

• If possible, use our Proof lens cleaner - other lens cleaners with less than 5%
  alcohol will work as well.
• If lens cleaner is not available, rinse them with water and dry them off with a microfiber cloth - avoid using paper towels, shirts, etc. as it may scratch the lenses.

Don't use window cleaner, ammonia, or vinegar. These can harm lenses and their anti-reflective coatings.

2. If they’re not on your face, they should be in a case.
Wood can be damaged if not stored properly. If you are not wearing them, keep them in a hard case, leather case, or in a microfiber pouch in a safe place to avoid breakage.

• Do not leave them on a hot dashboard - the sun coming through the window acts like a magnifying glass and can damage your frames.

3. Make sure you’re putting on and removing your glasses properly.
Our wood frames do have flex hinges, but removing them improperly can lead to breakage on the temples. 

• Don’t remove your glasses at sharp angle because it can stress the hinges - it’s best to remove them with both hands.

4. Avoid setting your Proof frames down on the lenses
To appropriately set your frames down, lay them folded up temple side down. 

• Placing your glasses with the lenses down first can lead to scratching.

5. Keep them out of salt water - as best you can!
We’re not going to try and tell you not to take your shades to the beach with you, but it’s important that you clean them properly afterward to avoid damage to the frame or lenses.

• If you do find yourself in salt water, make sure to rinse the frame clean thoroughly with clean water, and wipe the lenses with a low alcohol lens cleaner.

6. Keep the temples tightened to avoid damage
Making sure to keep the temples on your frames tightened will help you to avoid more significant damage, like cracking of the temples or frame. Use an eyeglass screwdriver to tighten the temple screws as needed.

• Quick Tip: placing a dot of clear nail polish on the back side of temple screws can prevent them from loosening up over time. 

7. Repair lens scratches with toothpaste.
Toothpaste - who knew? It is possible to repair some minor lens scratches at home with toothpaste. You can learn more about that process here.

8. Keep your frames fitting right.
If your acetate or aluminum frames feel crooked or like they aren’t fitting correctly and you can’t make it to an optical shop to get them adjusted, you can adjust them easily (but carefully!) from home.

Step 1: Determine where the adjustments need to be made. 

Step 2: Grab a blow dryer, turn it on warm, and heat up the frame for about a minute, until the frame is warm to the touch. Aluminum frames will need less heating time than acetate frames.

Step 3: CAREFULLY manipulate the acetate for the proper adjustment. If the frame is sitting higher on the right side of your face, you will need to lightly twist the frame so that the left temple can come to meet it.

Do not hold onto the temples while adjusting. Carefully manipulate the front of the frame, heating as you go, until you get the desired fit.