A little known fact about your glasses is that they can harbor bacteria which can irritate your eyes. This is due to bacteria and other eye-irritants making the transition from the environment to your hands and from your hands to your glasses and from your glasses to yo…—well you get the idea! Using your breath to clean your lenses can also expose your eyes to potentially irritating bacteria.

Bacteria thrive in a warm and moist environment, making your eyes a prime target. If bacteria gets into your eyes it can produce some uncomfortable eye conditions, such as:

• Blepharitis: A common condition that causes inflammation of the eyelids.
• Bacterial Keratitis: An infection of the cornea that causes pain, reduced vision, light sensitivity, and discharge from the eye.
• Sty: A painful red lump near the edge of your eyelid that looks like a pimple.
• Conjunctivitis: Commonly known as “pinkeye,” Conjunctivitis is often caused by infection from bacteria. It is seen mostly with children.

Your best approach to limiting your eyes exposure to potentially irritating bacteria is to make sure you are keeping your glasses clean. Use warm water and a little dish soap when you clean your lenses and frames, and make sure to use a soft towel to dry them off so you don't scratch your lenses. Rubbing alcohol can be used to clean your glasses as well, but make sure that there isn't a conflict with a special coating on your lenses first.