Cleaning, Storage, and Anti-Fog Maintenance (2025)

TL;DR

• Use a microfiber cloth only—no paper towels or household glass cleaners.

• Store sunglasses in a soft sleeve; use a hard case for travel or toss-in-a-duffel protection.

• For goggles, let them fully air-dry before sealing in a case to keep anti-fog performing.

Intro

Clear lenses last longer and perform better when you keep grime, sweat, and grit under control. This quick guide covers the basics: how to clean without scratching, how to store sunglasses and goggles so they don’t get crushed, and how to avoid fog before it starts. If you’re just here to kit up, head to our Accessories Collection for microfiber cloths, protective sleeves, hard cases, tear-offs, and more.

How to Choose Care & Maintenance Gear

Fit & Coverage (for Your Storage)

• Everyday carry: A soft microfiber sleeve protects lenses from incidental scratches and doubles as a cleaning cloth. It’s slim enough for pockets and glove boxes.

• Commutes and travel: A molded hard case prevents crushed frames and scuffed lenses when sunglasses or goggles ride in a pack or duffel.

• Goggles need structure: Use a case sized for snow/moto goggles so the lens, face foam, and strap aren’t compressed.

Lens Tints & Conditions

• Dark/gray or mirrored lenses: Show fingerprints faster—wipe with microfiber after sunscreen, sweat, or salt spray.

• Brown/amber bases: Great daily tints; keep a sleeve handy to knock down smudges that reduce contrast.

• Clear or low-light tints (night rides, storms): Avoid touching lenses with dirty gloves—rinse, then pat dry with microfiber.

• Mirrors: Treat like any coated surface—no gritty wipes; use clean microfiber only.

Grip, Weight & Comfort

• Retainers/straps: Not “cleaning,” but fewer drops mean fewer scratches. Choose a low-profile strap that won’t snag on hats or helmets.

• Bounce-free storage: If your shades live in a gym bag or boat compartment, a hard case stops flex that can loosen hinges over time.

• Helmet/hat compatibility: For goggles, don’t overpack the case—crushing the foam can change the seal and encourage fogging.

Editor’s Top Picks (6 Products)

• Microfiber Logo Cleaning Cloth — Safest, simplest way to remove oils and smudges without scratching.

• Sharks & Stripes Blackout Sleeve — Soft microfiber sleeve that also works as your on-the-go cleaning cloth.

• Bahama Breeze Sleeve — High-visibility sleeve that’s hard to lose in a pack; everyday protection.

• Electric Paradise Sleeve — Bold colorway; stash an extra in the car so you always have a clean wipe.

• Goggles Hard Case — Molded protection keeps the lens and foam from getting crushed; ideal for travel days.

• PowPow Moto – Tear Offs (10 Pack) — Peel away mud/grit instantly on the trail—no rubbing a dirty lens.

Compare at a Glance

Pro Tips & Use-Case Scenarios

• Boat days: Rinse salt spray with clean water before wiping; salt crystals can scratch if rubbed dry.

• Gym bag life: If your shades get tossed with shoes and gear, upgrade from sleeve → hard case.

• Pow days / rainy rides: Never seal wet goggles in a case. Air-dry first to protect the anti-fog layer.

• Cold → warm transitions: Keep goggles on your face or outside your jacket to reduce condensation.

• Night rides: Clear or light-tint lenses fog faster with trapped moisture—vent, then store dry.

• Sunscreen & DEET: Apply first, let it set, then put on eyewear. Oils and chemicals smear coatings.

FAQs

Do I need a special cleaner, or is microfiber enough?
Microfiber is the safest daily option. If you use a spray, make sure it’s lens-safe and avoid household glass cleaners that can damage coatings.

How do I clean off mud or salt without scratching?
Rinse with clean water to float away grit, then wipe with a fresh microfiber cloth.

Can I wipe the inside of my goggle lens?
Avoid scrubbing the inner surface—many anti-fog layers live there. If needed, gently blot dry and let air-dry fully.

Sleeve or hard case—what’s best for sunglasses?
Use a sleeve for everyday carry; use a hard case for travel, checked luggage, or when glasses ride loose in a pack.

Why do my goggles fog even when I’m moving?
Moisture trapped in foam or between lens layers—or blocked vents—can overwhelm airflow. Dry thoroughly and keep vents clear.

How often should I replace a cleaning cloth?
When it’s visibly dirty or stops lifting smudges easily. Wash microfiber without fabric softener and air-dry to refresh it.

Are tear-offs worth it for MTB/moto?
Yes—stack a few and peel as you ride so you’re not grinding grit into the lens with a glove.

Shop the Collection

Build a simple care kit: one cloth, one sleeve for daily carry, and a hard case for trips. See all accessories here: Accessories Collection. One setup protects sunglasses and goggles alike.