How to take care of your SOEK™ Sunnies : A Guide to Making them Last Longer
At SOEK™, we believe that a more sustainable approach to style goes beyond the materials we choose. It's also about how we care for the things we own. By looking after your sunglasses properly, you can help maintain their appearance, protect their functionality and enjoy them for longer.
Here are six simple ways to keep your SOEKs looking their best.
1. Clean Your Sunglasses Gently
Throughout the day, your sunglasses collect fingerprints, dust, oils and smudges. While it might be tempting to wipe them on your shirt, this can scratch the lenses over time.
Instead, use a clean lens cloth to gently remove marks. For a more thorough clean, use a lukewarm damp microfibre cloth.
Avoid paper towels, tissues and rough fabrics, as these can leave fine scratches behind.
SOEK tip: Keep your lens cloth somewhere convenient so you can give your sunglasses a quick, gentle clean whenever they need it.
2. Store Them Safely
Your sunglasses may be made for everyday wear, but that doesn't mean they should be left lying around unprotected.
When you're not wearing them, store your sunglasses in their protective case. This helps prevent scratches, accidental knocks and damage caused by other items in your bag or car.
Avoid placing them lens-down on tables or other hard surfaces, as this can scratch the lenses and affect their appearance.
A little habit, such as putting your sunglasses away after each use, can make a meaningful difference to how well they hold up over time.
3. Keep Them Away from Extreme Heat
South African summers can be hot, and leaving your sunglasses in a parked car or on a dashboard may expose them to excessive temperatures.
Extreme heat can affect lens coatings, distort frames and potentially damage certain frame materials. This is particularly important when caring for frames made with plant-based materials, including Bio Acetate.
Whenever possible, keep your sunglasses in their case and out of direct heat for prolonged periods. If you're heading to the beach, a market or a road trip, remember to bring them with you rather than leaving them in a hot car.
4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Not all cleaning products are suitable for eyewear.
Household cleaners, solvents, alcohol-based products and ammonia can damage certain lens coatings and frame finishes. Depending on the material, they may also cause discolouration or deterioration over time.
For everyday cleaning, stick to products specifically designed for eyewear and follow the care instructions supplied with your sunglasses.
This is especially important when caring for frames made from different materials, as each may have its own cleaning requirements.
5. Treat Your Lenses with Care
Your lenses do more than complete the look of your sunglasses. They play an important role in protecting your eyes from the sun.
To help maintain your lenses, avoid rubbing them with rough materials, placing them face-down or exposing them to unsuitable cleaning products.
6. Care for Your Sunglasses. Make More Conscious Choices.
Choosing materials with sustainability in mind is one part of the journey. Taking care of your sunglasses is another.
Keeping your eyewear in good condition can help extend its useful life, reduce the need for replacements and prevent unnecessary waste. While no product lasts forever, treating your sunglasses with care is a simple way to make a more considered choice.
A Little Care Goes a Long Way
Your favourite sunglasses are there for everyday adventures, weekend getaways, beach days and everything in between. With a few simple habits, you can help keep them looking great and performing as intended for longer.
Clean them gently. Store them safely. Protect them from excessive heat. And, most importantly, wear them well.
Because a more sustainable approach to style isn't only about what you choose. It's also about how you care for it.
The SOEK™ Team 💚