Lenses treated with an antireflective coating help patients see clearer while working with a computer screen and driving at night. For those of you already wearing these lenses, below are some tips for recommended methods to keep them clean and in good condition, as well as procedures to avoid:

• Lenses should be cleaned at least once a day.
• Use a cleaner specifically made for antireflective-coated lenses. If this is unavailable, rinse the lenses with lukewarm water and clean using a mild dishwashing liquid or hand soap. Hand soap should not contain cream, as that can cause lenses to smear. Dry lenses with a soft, clean cloth, such as a cotton towel.
• Soft cloths specifically made for use with antireflective-coated lenses allow the lenses to be cleaned dry. These cloths work well throughout the day and should be kept clean by laundering periodically with laundry soap and water (but do not use fabric softener).

Certain precautions need to be taken to keep antireflective coatings in good condition:

• Avoid ultrasonic cleaners.
• Avoid salt pans and frame warmers.
• Avoid excessive heat.
• Avoid caustic chemicals and sprays, such as acetone, ammonia, chlorine, hair spray and other aerosols.

Not all antireflective-coated lenses are created equal. Be sure to ask your licensed optician about multilayer coatings that contain a scratch resistant coating and a smudge-resistant coating.