In 2018 a study was performed by Hochschule Furtwangen University in Germany to investigate the bacterial levels on spectacles and analyse the efficacy of four different cleaning methods to reduce microbial loads. The cleaning methods tested were moist alcohol and alcohol-free lens cleaning wipes, dry tissue, and dry microfabric cloth.

All spectacles are contaminated with bacteria including potentially pathogenic ones and therefore should be considered as objects which could carry infection. 1 Lightly brush away dust and dirt with the folded wipe. Unfold the wipe and clean the lens surface using circular movements until it’s clean and dry. Only use the tissue when it’s moist. Wipe suitable for single use only.Of the four methods tested, moist lens cleaning wipes showed the most germ reduction at ≥99% (a vast reduction). 1 Washing your hands is a proven practice to ensure good hygiene, and helps prevent the spread of harmful germs, but it is not the only sensible protective measure that we should take. Cleaning items that you touch regularly, such as spectacles and digital devices, should also be part of our daily hygiene routines.