Give your old glasses a second life
Repurposing used frames and lenses is a great way to cut down on waste. But it can be difficult to know what to do with old glasses. Prescription lenses are customized for your vision needs, so how could they be of use to anyone else?
When you consider the possibilities, there are numerous ways to upcycle, recycle and donate your old spectacles. Below are eight options to keep in mind when you’re wondering what to do with your old prescription glasses, non-prescription glasses and glasses frames.
1. Donate them
Did you know you can send your old glasses in as a donation to a nonprofit organization? Lions Club International is one organization that accepts eyeglasses donations through drop-off and mail-in programs. They’re cleaned, sorted and given to lower-income populations that need vision care.
You may also be able to donate your glasses through local charity organizations, such as community centers and charitable thrift stores.
2. Give your glasses to a friend or family member
Old glasses can be a unique hand-me-down for relatives who admire your style. They can also come in handy for games of dress-up for little ones.
If you need a stronger power in your reading glasses, your old pair can make a great secondhand gift. Reading glasses are available over-the-counter, but determining the right magnification can be tricky on the spot. If you choose a pair that turns out to be the wrong strength, or if you no longer need an old pair, consider asking a friend if they want to try them out.
Passing your glasses down to a relative can be useful for these reasons and more. But be sure your loved one uses lenses suitable for their vision prescription. Wearing the wrong prescription or reading magnification can cause blurriness and eye strain.
LEARN MORE: How to determine your reading glasses power
3. Replace the lenses
If you love your frames, but the lenses are scratched or in an outdated prescription, a lens replacement may be the right choice for you.
Some glasses makers can replace the lenses in your existing glasses if you need a new prescription. When crafting your new lenses, they can often add special features such as an anti-glare coating. The lens replacement process is sometimes called “reglazing.”
Adding a new pair of prescription lenses isn’t available through every glasses manufacturer. Check with your glasses maker of choice to get a better idea of the cost involved in updating your preferred frames.
Keep in mind that reglazing an existing frame comes with some risk. If your frame is older or gets damaged during the process, the lab or optical shop isn’t responsible for replacement. If it’s a favorite frame you’d hate to lose, consider setting it aside for one of the creative reuse ideas mentioned later in this article..
4. Turn them into sunglasses
Lens reglazing may also be available if you want to turn your old glasses into sunglasses. Clip-on sunglass lenses are another option that is likely less expensive than getting entirely new lenses.
If your prescription hasn’t changed, they’re great ways to use old frames if you’ve recently upgraded. Both options give you a designated pair of sunglasses.
Note that It’s not always possible to replace prescription glasses lenses with prescription (or non-prescription) sunglass lenses. Check with your glasses manufacturer for your options.
5. Recycle them
Recycling your lenses and frames may be another possibility when getting rid of glasses you don't need anymore. Some initiatives, such as Costa’s Kick Plastic Lens Recycling Program, work with optical labs and practices to recycle used lenses. Such programs recycle the lenses and repurpose them as motorcycle helmet shields, safety glasses and more.
Terracycle is another organization that helps consumers recycle eyewear, including:
- Glasses
- Sunglasses
- Ski goggles
- Safety glasses
You may see a Terracycle Zero Waste Box in an optical store or eye doctor’s office near you, but recycling programs are not available everywhere. If you don’t see an eyewear collection box, ask your doctor’s office if they participate in any optical recycling programs.
6. Sell them
Selling your old glasses frames is another way to give them new life. There are several online platforms that allow you to sell new and used clothing and accessories, including:
- Mercari
- eBay
- Facebook Marketplace
- Poshmark
Secondhand stores and pawn shops in your area may also buy used designer eyewear.
When selling your pre-owned eyewear, be sure to provide clear pictures and details of the frames. This includes the style, color, size, brand and any other relevant specifications. If you’re selling eyeglasses, let potential buyers know whether the lenses are prescription or non-prescription.
If possible, include the original packaging and materials that came with your eyewear. This is important to many buyers, especially if you’re reselling designer goods. It helps the buyer understand their value and confirm their legitimacy.
7. Get creative
A fun way to upcycle glasses is through creative crafts. Whether you’re an art project enthusiast or you need a fun accessory for a Halloween costume, the possibilities are endless.
One easy project is to turn your old glasses into a picture frame. Simply cut two pictures out in the size and shape of the lens holes. Then fit them into the frames over the lenses. Use this as a unique home decoration or give it as a fun, personal gift.
Old eyeglass frames and lenses can also be used for art projects, light fixtures, jewelry, wreaths and much more.
8. Store them for the future
It’s always a good idea to keep a backup pair of glasses. Whether you just upgraded to a new frame style or you got a new vision prescription, be sure to keep your older pair on hand. There are numerous situations where you may need an extra pair.
For example, if you’re a contact lens wearer and you experience an eye injury or infection, you may need to wear your glasses while your eye heals. Keeping a backup pair is also a good idea in case you break or lose your primary set of glasses.
If you have a new prescription, try not to wear the outdated lenses regularly. Switching between the old and new prescriptions can make it more difficult to adjust to your new glasses.
Using your old prescription lenses may cause your eyes to work harder, which can lead to eye strain and headaches. But if you need to wear them in an emergency, your old prescription glasses won't damage your eyes or vision.
Keep your glasses and vision prescription up to date
There are plenty of ways to make good use out of glasses you don’t wear anymore. You may be able to recycle them, provide for someone in need, or bring a unique art project to life. Decide on the option that makes the most sense for your lifestyle before throwing out your old frames.
Remember to keep your vision prescription updated as well. Seeing your eye doctor for regular eye exams is the best way to ensure your eye health is in check and your vision prescription is up to date. And if you happen to need new glasses at the conclusion of your appointment, now you know what to do with the old ones.
READ NEXT: How to extend the life of your eyewear
