Scratches on swim goggles can be a nuisance because they can impair your vision and may even lead to headaches due to the distorted images. The following is a step-by-step guide on how to remove scratches from swim goggles. Please note that not all scratches may be completely removed, depending on their depth and severity, but these steps can help minimize their appearance.
Step 1: Clean the Goggles
Before attempting to fix any scratches, it’s important to clean your swim goggles to remove any chlorine, dirt, or debris that might interfere with the scratch repair process.
- Rinse your goggles with cool, fresh water to remove any initial dirt.
- Use a gentle soap and clean the lenses softly with your fingers. Do not use abrasive cloths or sponges that can cause additional scratches.
- Rinse the goggles again to remove soap residue.
- Pat the goggles dry with a soft, lint-free cloth to avoid scratching or lint deposit.
Step 2: Apply Scratch-Remover
There are products available that are specifically designed to remove scratches from plastic and polycarbonate lenses, which are commonly used in swim goggles.
- Find a lens scratch remover suitable for the material of your swim goggles.
- Read the instructions on the product carefully before applying it to your goggles.
- Apply a small amount of the scratch remover to the lenses using a microfiber cloth.
- Use a gentle circular motion to rub the product over the scratches.
- Buff the area until the scratch remover is completely worked in or the product has dried.
Step 3: Rinse and Dry the Goggles
After applying the scratch remover, it’s important to rinse your goggles to remove any remaining product.
- Rinse the goggles thoroughly with cool, fresh water.
- Pat them dry again with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Step 4: Buff out Scratches with Toothpaste
In cases where dedicated scratch removers are not available, a temporary homemade solution can be to use toothpaste as a mild abrasive.
- Use only non-gel, non-whitening toothpaste, as gels can add more scratches.
- Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the scratched area.
- With a microfiber cloth, rub the toothpaste in a circular motion over the scratch for a few minutes.
- Rinse the goggles and remove all traces of toothpaste.
- Repeat the process if necessary, but do not overdo it as the abrasive nature of toothpaste can cause additional fine scratches with excessive use.
Step 5: Use Baking Soda Paste
Another home remedy involves making a paste of baking soda and water.
- Mix one part water with two parts baking soda to form a paste.
- Apply the paste to the scratches and rub gently with a soft cloth in a circular motion.
- Rinse the goggles thoroughly when finished.
Step 6: Prevent Future Scratches
After you’ve addressed the scratches on your goggles, it’s good to take steps to prevent future damage.
- Always rinse and dry your goggles after use.
- Store them in a protective case to avoid damage when not in use.
- Be mindful not to put them face down on any surfaces which could add more scratches.
Additional Tips
Some additional tips to keep in mind while removing scratches from your swim goggles:
- Always test a small area of your goggles with the chosen scratch removal method to make sure it doesn’t cause additional damage.
- Do not use products that contain harsh chemicals as they can deteriorate the quality of your goggles and harm the anti-fog coating.
- For deep scratches, it might be more practical to replace the lenses or the goggles altogether.
By following these steps and tips, you can help ensure that your swim goggles remain clear and functional for as long as possible. Remember, the key is to be gentle and patient throughout the process to avoid causing further damage to the lenses.