The Dos and Don’ts of Wearing Reading Glasses

Avoid the squints, the smudges and the upside-down frames.

So, you've finally joined the world of reading glasses - welcome! Whether you're rocking a chic tortoiseshell pair or borrowing your partner’s drugstore specs (don't do this, get your own cool pair!), reading glasses can truly change the game... as long as you know how to use them properly.

To make your journey smooth and stylish, we’ve put together a list of light-hearted dos and don’ts for getting the most out of your specs - without losing them in your couch cushions (don't do this, keep your reading glasses handy!).

DO: Clean Them Regularly

No, your shirt sleeve doesn’t count.
Smudges, fingerprints, and mystery gunk build up fast, and nothing ruins a good read like trying to see through a lens that looks like it's been dipped in olive oil. Use a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner, or grab one of those handy pre-moistened wipes. Lucky for you, Ministry of Sight reading glasses come with a fab microfibre cloth with every pair.

DON’T: Perch Them on Your Head All Day

Unless you’re going for the “I lost my glasses - oh wait, they’re on my head” look.
Sure, it’s convenient, but it stretches out the frames over time and messes with their shape. Plus, you’ll definitely forget where you left them.

DO: Choose the Right Magnification

Reading glasses aren’t one-size-fits-all (even if the cheap ones say they are).
Start with an eye exam or at least try a few magnifications at the store before committing. Guessing wrong means everything looks just blurry enough to be annoying. Here's a few guides to help you out: Choosing the Right Lens Power, Reading Glasses Age Guide.

DON’T: Walk Around in Them

Unless you want the world to look like a funhouse mirror.
Reading glasses are for just that - reading. Walking, driving, or navigating stairs in them can lead to tripping, dizziness or at least some very confused looks.

DO: Embrace Your Look

Reading glasses = instant personality.
Whether you're into bold colors, vintage vibes or minimalist frames, let them be an extension of your style. Trust us, confidence looks great on everyone.
Check out your style here: What Kind of Glasses Wearer Are You?, How to Choose the Perfect Pair of Reading Glasses for Your Face Shape, How to Pick a Cool Pair of Reading Glasses Online: A Guide.

DON’T: Buy Just One Pair

Unless you love playing “Where Are My Glasses?” five times a day.
Keep a pair in every reading zone - your desk, nightstand, bag, maybe even next to the coffee machine. Future You will thank you.
Ministry of Sight gives a 10% discount when you buys more than one pair!

DO: Keep a Case Handy

Glasses tossed in a bag without a case = scratched lenses and future regrets.
A slim hard case or soft pouch can make all the difference. Bonus points if it’s cute.
Lucky Ministry of Sight gives you a slimline glasses case with every purchase to keep your cool new frames safe!

DON’T: Pretend You Don’t Need Them

We get it - it’s an adjustment.
But squinting at a menu in a dim restaurant while pretending you're just thinking really hard isn’t fooling anyone. Reading glasses are here to help, not to cramp your style.
And according to the stats, EVERYONE pretty much needs them after 40.

In Focus

Reading glasses can be a total game-changer when used wisely (and maybe with a bit of humour). Embrace the quirks, avoid the common slip-ups, and enjoy seeing the world a little more clearly - whether you’re diving into a novel, decoding the fine print, WFH or just trying to read the ingredients on a soup can.

Now go on—specs up!