What Should I Do Immediately After My Glasses Break?
Whether it’s a snapped frame, a lost screw, or a cracked lens, knowing how to handle such situations is crucial. Keep reading for step-by-step advice on what to do when your glasses break, from immediate temporary fixes to more permanent solutions.
Can I Fix My Glasses Myself?
Many minor repairs can be managed at home with basic tools, here we’ll go over what to do for bent frames, snapped frames and missing screws. If nothing else these might get you by until you can see an optician or get a new pair.
For a missing screw you have a few options:
- First check to see if you have a glasses repair kit. These typically include a few different sized replacement screws and a small screwdriver. Check to see if any of these will fit your glasses and you’ll have a temporary fix.
- The next quick fix is to take a toothpick and feed it as far into the screw hole as possible. Once it’s as secure as you can get it and break off the excess toothpick.
- If you don’t have a glasses repair kit but want something a bit more reliable than a toothpick, check to see if you have some metal wire. You can feed this wire through the screw hole, bend it around and twist it together like a twist tie, creating a slightly sturdier fix. You’ll want to make sure to cut off any excess and check to make sure the wire isn’t sharp before wearing your glasses again.
- Under no circumstances should you EVER put super glue or another adhesive on your frames, regardless of what you’re fixing. Adhesives can permanently mess up your frames and in some cases make them completely irreparable.
If you have a bent metal frame, you can typically very carefully bend it back into place. There are two ways to try this, the first is with your hands.
- Carefully attempt to bend the frames back to how they used to be. Make sure you don’t hold your glasses by the lenses and be conscious of your nails, the last thing you want is to scratch your lenses.
- If your frames aren’t quite bending back right, or are proving to be tough, the next thing to try is using a pair of soft tipped pliers if you have them. Regular pliers wrapped in a cloth of some type will suffice. Just about any cloth will work as this is just to keep the pliers from scratching your frames. Carefully attempt to bend your frames back into shape, once again being taking care to not scratch your lenses.
Once you’ve managed to get your frames into a wearable state, you’ll eventually want to go see a local optician to properly get your frames adjusted. This doesn’t have to happen immediately, but it is something to consider. While your glasses may feel right again, they may be sitting on your face crooked, or the optical center (part of the lens where you can see the clearest) might not be lined up correctly with your pupils providing you with suboptimal vision.
If you have a bent acetate or plastic frame you’ll have to try a different approach.
- Take your bent frames and try running them under some hot water for a little bit. The heat from the water can soften the material and make it more malleable. Once your frames have warmed up, VERY carefully attempt to bend them, be extra gentle as the last thing you want is to snap your frames.
- If the above method didn’t work, you can attempt the same exact thing, except this time try it with a hair dryer instead of warm water. Be extra careful when attempting to bend your frames, and be conscious of how you hold them to avoid damaging your lenses
- If you’re unable to bend your frames back properly with either of these techniques, you can go see a local optician, they will have the proper tools to safely and properly readjust your frames.
If you have frames made of acetate, wood, or another material that has snapped on the temples, a bit of tape can work as a temporary fix.
- Take your broken temples and line them up as closely as you can, then take your tape and wrap them together as tight as you can. You may have to try and repeat this a few times before you can get your frames to sit on your face again.
If you have acetate or plastic frames that have snapped on the eyewire (the part of the frame that surrounds your lens), a temporary fix is possible with two-part epoxy. Below is a helpful step-by-step video guide, be extra careful if you attempt this to not get any epoxy on your lenses. If you don’t have epoxy on hand you’ll best be served by visiting a local optician to get your glasses fixed.
How Do I Find a Reliable Glasses Repair Service?
When professional repairs are needed, start by checking if the retailer from whom you bought your glasses offers repair services. Many opticians and eyewear stores provide repairs, sometimes even for free. You can also look for local eyewear repair shops; reading online reviews can help ensure that you choose a reputable service provider.
What Are My Options If My Glasses Are Beyond Repair?
If your glasses are beyond repair, (broken, cracked or scratched lenses, or severe frame damage) you will need to consider purchasing a new pair. Many optometrists and optical shops can expedite orders for those who need their glasses urgently. Though you’ll need an up-to-date prescription. Always keep a copy of your latest prescription for such emergencies.
You can also try looking for a local optical business that offers in-office finishing, meaning they have the tools to cut you new lenses and possibly get your glasses back to you same day. This is instead of having to send your glasses to a lab which can sometimes take more than a week.
Why Should I Have a Backup Pair of Glasses?
A pair of broken frames highlights the importance of having a backup pair of glasses, especially if your vision is significantly impaired without them. Backup glasses ensure that you have a seamless transition in case your primary pair breaks. It’s advisable to update your backup glasses whenever your prescription changes, ensuring they are as functional as your primary pair.
How Can I Prevent My Glasses From Breaking?
Preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of breakage. Always store your glasses in a hard case when not in use. Avoid leaving them in places where they can be easily knocked off or sat upon. Never set your glasses down on the lenses. Periodically tighten the screws and adjust the fit to ensure your glasses are in good condition.
Conclusion
While breaking your glasses will never be something you want to happen, it’s not the end of the world. If the damage to your glasses is minor, a quick DIY repair can do the job for some time. But you’ll most likely need to eventually get a new pair or bring them in for a proper fix. Remember that storing your glasses in a hard case and taking preventive measures is a great way to help prevent damaging your frames and lenses.