Glasses are considered an expensive investment, especially if the lens includes different repairs, such as UV protection, anti-reflection and a scratch-resistant coating, or if it is bifocal. Frame costs can also add value. It is important to treat the glasses and clean them properly when they have salt water stains. Besides being annoying, saline spots can damage the lens and frame of the glasses.
Regardless of how saltwater stains end up in a glass, the result of accidental spills can dry out and become crisp white residues. This is actually the formation of salt crystals. Do not leave saline spots on the glasses for too long, because salt water is corrosive. It can erode several layers that have been applied to the surface of the glasses. If it is not possible to immediately clean the glasses, make sure the glasses are immediately rinsed. Furthermore, they must be thoroughly cleaned.
To clean the glasses, first wash the glass to remove the crystal or to prevent it from forming. If crystals are left in the glass, they can scratch and damage the surface of the glasses when trying to clean the residue.
Next, use a commercially available lens cleaning solution. This is the best choice for removing saline patches from glasses, and can be purchased at any optician or at the ophthalmologist's office. Eyeglass cleaning agents are a closely guarded industry secret, but are said to contain a solution that has anti-fogging, dust resistance, protective coating and antistatic properties. The solution is not only designed to be soft enough to not affect the lens layer, but also designed to protect the glasses from future damage. The cleaning process is actually as easy as spraying the cleaner on the lens and cleaning it with a soft microfiber cloth.
If commercial cleaners are not available, the next best way to remove saline stains from glasses is to use ordinary hand soap. Make a soap solution by adding a few drops to a glass of water. This soap solution is gentle enough to maintain any layer that may be on the lens and still cleanse saline spots.
Do not remove saline stains with vinegar, alcohol or other household chemical solutions. These substances are not effective as cleaning glasses, and can cause more damage to the lens than the salt solution itself