Chloe Zhang
Plastic eyeglass frames are durable, but they can become scratched and scuffed over time due to daily wear and tear, improper storage, and exposure to abrasive materials. Luckily, there are several methods to restore them to their former glory.
How to shine scratched plastic frames
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Causes of scratches on plastic frames | Daily wear and tear, improper storage, contact with abrasive objects, cleaning with incorrect materials, accidental drops and impacts, friction from cases, bags, or surfaces, exposure to harsh chemicals and UV rays |
| Prevention methods | Store glasses in a protective case, use a soft microfiber cloth to clean, avoid placing glasses face-down on hard surfaces, keep frames away from harsh chemicals |
| Scratch removal methods | Toothpaste, Baking soda, Sandpaper, Plastic polishing compound, Brass, silver, or metal polish, Glass etching compound, Petroleum jelly or mineral oil, Black plastic restorer or permanent marker, Turtlewax Scratch Repair and Renew, Car polish |
| Scratch removal process | Clean the surface, apply the chosen product in circular motions, wipe off excess, rinse with water, dry, repeat if necessary, apply a polishing compound to restore shine |
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What You'll Learn
Clean the surface of the plastic frames
To clean the surface of plastic frames, it's important to start with a gentle cleaning agent to avoid causing additional scratches that will dull the finish. Before attempting any scratch removal, ensure the surface is clean and free of debris, which could further scratch the plastic during the process.
Use warm water and a few drops of dish soap, or a small amount of rubbing alcohol applied to a clean cloth or cotton round. You can also try a glass or plastic cleaner, specifically designed for use on glasses. Microfiber cloths are recommended for cleaning, as they are soft and less likely to cause scratches. Avoid paper towels or rough fabrics, as these can scratch the plastic.
Once the surface is clean, you can assess the severity of the scratches. Lightly run your fingernail over the scratch, and if your nail doesn't catch, it's a shallow scratch that can be treated with a gentle abrasive. If your nail catches, it's a deeper scratch that will require a more aggressive approach.
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Use toothpaste to buff out scratches
Toothpaste can be used to buff out scratches on plastic frames, but it is important to proceed with caution. Using the wrong technique could dull the finish or create more scratches, worsening the problem. Firstly, you should determine whether the scratch is shallow or deep. If your fingernail does not catch on the scratch, it is shallow and can be treated with light abrasives such as toothpaste. If your nail catches, it is a deeper scratch that may require wet sandpaper.
Before applying toothpaste, clean the plastic surface thoroughly to ensure that any loose debris does not further scratch the plastic. Use warm water and a few drops of dish soap, or a small amount of rubbing alcohol applied with a clean cloth or cotton round. Next, squeeze out a small amount of non-gel toothpaste, ensuring that it is not a type that contains gel or whiteners, as these can be harsh on plastic. Spread the toothpaste over the scratch, using a soft cotton cloth to work it in with small circular motions.
Buff the toothpaste until the surface begins to even out, then rinse it off with cool water. Check your progress and repeat the process if necessary. You can also try applying a plastic or metal polishing compound in a circular motion with a clean, dry cloth to bring back the shine.
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Use baking soda to buff out scratches
If you want to remove scratches from plastic, it's important to proceed with caution. Using the wrong technique could dull the finish or even create more scratches. Before you begin, clean the plastic surface thoroughly to ensure that any loose debris doesn't cause further scratches. Use warm water and a few drops of dish soap, or a small amount of rubbing alcohol applied to a clean cloth or cotton round.
Now, to create your baking soda paste, mix equal parts baking soda and water. You can apply this paste to the lens or plastic surface using a cotton swab or soft cloth. Gently rub it into the scratch in circular motions for around 30 seconds. Rinse the baking soda off periodically to check your progress, repeating the process until the scratch is gone.
For stubborn scratches, you can try using a glass etching compound. Apply the compound to the lens and leave it to sit for around five minutes. Then, rinse the compound off and wipe the lens or plastic dry. The compound should remove the top layer of plastic, taking the scratches with it.
If you're attempting to remove deeper scratches, you may need to use a super-fine grit wet sandpaper. Soak the sandpaper in water for several minutes until it's saturated. Then, use a gentle circular motion to sand the area, being careful not to apply too much pressure, as this could create new scratches. Rinse the area periodically and re-wet the sandpaper as needed.
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Apply a plastic polishing compound
Plastic polishing compounds are available for different types of plastics, including plexiglass, resin, and acrylic. They come in liquid, paste, and putty-style products.
To apply a plastic polishing compound, you can follow the steps below:
First, identify the type of plastic you are working with. Different plastics have different properties and require specific types of polishing compounds. For example, polycarbonate has a dark edge and requires a specific type of polishing liquid.
Next, assess the depth of the scratches. Light and shallow scratches can often be removed with mild abrasives, such as toothpaste or baking soda. Deeper scratches may require the use of fine-grit wet sandpaper before applying the polishing compound.
Then, clean the plastic surface thoroughly to remove any loose debris that could further scratch the plastic during the polishing process. Use warm water and a mild cleanser or soap to gently wash the plastic. Ensure that you rinse and dry the plastic with a soft cloth afterward.
Now, you can apply the plastic polishing compound. Put a small amount of the compound on a clean, dry cloth and work it into the scratch in a circular motion. Use gentle pressure and focus on the scratched area until the edges of the scratch are mostly gone.
Finally, wipe off the polishing compound with a clean rag or cloth. Repeat the process if necessary, using finer polishing compounds each time until you achieve a smooth, scratch-free surface.
By following these steps and choosing the appropriate plastic polishing compound, you can effectively remove scratches and restore the shine to your plastic frames.
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Store and clean your frames properly
Storing your plastic frames properly is essential to prevent scratches and keep them looking new. Here are some tips to store and clean your plastic frames properly:
Storing Your Plastic Frames
- Always store your glasses in a protective case when not in use. This will protect them from accidental drops, impacts, and friction, which are common causes of scratches and scuff marks.
- Choose a storage space that is cool, dry, and dark. Avoid placing your frames near doors, windows, or appliances, as these areas may be susceptible to temperature fluctuations and humidity.
- Keep your frames away from harsh chemicals such as acetone, alcohol, or other solvents. These can damage the plastic and cause scratches or discolouration.
- Cover your frames with a clean sheet of plain coloured paper or bubble wrap, especially at the corners, to protect them from dust and scratches during storage.
- If you need to store your frames for a long period, ensure they are free from dust, dirt, or other stains before putting them away.
Cleaning Your Plastic Frames
- Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean your frames gently. Avoid using paper towels, rough fabrics, or abrasive cleaning tools, as these can scratch the plastic.
- Dampen the microfiber cloth with warm water and gently rub the frames in circular motions to lift marks and dirt.
- For stubborn stains, use a damp cotton bud to spot clean. Avoid applying too much pressure to prevent damaging the frames.
- Dry the frames with a clean, dry cloth by blotting, not by vigorously rubbing.
- If your frames have oil, grease, or tar stains, use a solvent such as hexane, aliphatic naphtha, or kerosene, following the manufacturer's instructions.
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