Sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes, but they can easily become misaligned or bent due to accidental drops, sitting on them, or improper storage. If your favorite pair is out of shape, don’t worry—there’s a good chance you can fix them at home without visiting an optician. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the safest and easiest ways to adjust your sunglasses back into shape.
Why Do Sunglasses Get Bent?
Before we dive into fixing your sunglasses, let’s look at some common reasons why they might become misaligned:
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Accidental drops – A fall from a high surface can cause frame distortion.
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Sitting on them – A common mistake that can cause serious bending or even breakage.
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Storing them improperly – Keeping your sunglasses loose in a bag or pocket can lead to bending.
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Wear and tear – Over time, frames can loosen or warp due to daily use.
How to Check for Misalignment?
To determine if your sunglasses are truly bent, follow these steps:
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Lay them flat – Place your sunglasses on a smooth, flat surface. If one side lifts off the surface, they’re misaligned.
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Check the arms – Hold them at eye level to see if both arms are even. If one arm is higher than the other, you need an adjustment.
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Look for lens distortion – If the lenses appear warped or feel off when wearing the sunglasses, the frame may need reshaping.
How to Fix Bent Sunglasses at Home?
Method 1: Adjusting Metal Frames
Metal sunglasses are relatively easy to bend back into shape because they are more malleable. Here’s what to do:
What You’ll Need:
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A soft cloth
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Pliers (optional)
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Warm water (if needed)
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Protect the lenses – Wrap the sunglasses in a soft cloth to prevent scratches.
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Apply gentle pressure – Use your hands to slowly bend the frames back into place. If the arms are uneven, gently push or pull one side until they align.
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Use pliers if necessary – If the hinges or bridge need fine-tuning, use a pair of pliers with a soft grip to make adjustments.
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Test the fit – Try them on and adjust further if needed.
Pro Tip: If the metal is stiff, run the frame under warm water for a few seconds to make it more pliable.
Method 2: Fixing Plastic Frames
Plastic frames require a different approach since they are less flexible than metal. Using heat is the best way to soften them before bending.
What You’ll Need:
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A bowl of warm water (not boiling)
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A hairdryer (optional)
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A microfiber cloth
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Heat the frame – Soak the sunglasses in warm water for 30–60 seconds or use a hairdryer to gently heat the area that needs adjusting.
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Slowly reshape – While the plastic is warm, carefully bend the arms or bridge back into place. Do this slowly to avoid breaking the frame.
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Cool and set – Hold the sunglasses in position for a few seconds to let the frame cool and retain its shape.
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Check the fit – Try them on and repeat the process if necessary.
Warning: Never use boiling water, as it can warp or damage plastic frames beyond repair.
Method 3: Tightening Loose Hinges
If your sunglasses feel lopsided due to loose hinges, follow these steps:
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Check the screw – Look at the hinge area and see if the screw is loose.
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Use an eyeglass repair kit – A small screwdriver (like the Snapitscrew Standard Eyeglass Repair Kit) can help tighten the screw securely.
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Replace lost screws – If a screw is missing, use a replacement from a repair kit with different screw sizes to find the perfect fit.
When to Seek Professional Help
While DIY methods work in most cases, there are times when professional repair is necessary:
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If the frame is severely bent or cracked.
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If the lens pops out and won’t fit back properly.
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If the hinges are completely broken or stripped.
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If you have high-end designer sunglasses, it’s better to have them adjusted by a professional to avoid damage.
How to Prevent Sunglasses from Getting Bent
Now that your sunglasses are back in shape, follow these tips to keep them looking good:
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Store them in a hard case – This prevents accidental pressure or impact.
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Avoid placing them on your head – It may stretch the arms over time.
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Use both hands when taking them off – This prevents unnecessary strain on the frame.
- Clean them regularly – Dirt buildup can cause screws to loosen.
Bending sunglasses back into shape is a simple process that can save you money on replacements. Whether your frames are metal or plastic, using the right techniques and tools will help restore them to their original fit. If you're dealing with loose screws, an eyeglass repair kit like Snapitscrew can be a lifesaver.
Need a quick fix? Try these methods and enjoy your sunglasses looking brand new again!
