Snowboard goggles are probably the most fragile snowboarding equipment. If you don’t want to risk having to replace them soon, you need to know how to clean them properly. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to clean snowboard goggles without causing any damage.
Let’s get started!
How To Clean Snowboard Goggles
When to Clean Snowboard Goggles
I recommend cleaning goggles after each day on the snow to keep them in optimal condition. While snowboarding, you may need to remove snow and ice from the lens, but don’t worry—this guide will show you how to do it correctly.
I’ve divided the snowboard goggle cleaning process into post-riding and during-riding steps because the available time differs.
At the end of the day, you can perform a more thorough cleaning. While snowboarding, you want to remove accumulated snow quickly and get back to riding.
Note: Do not underestimate how to clean them when snowboarding. Rushing back to snowboarding (completely justified 🤪) is usually where lens scratching occurs.
How to Clean Snowboard Goggles After a Day on the Snow
#1 Shake the Goggles
Shake the goggles to remove as much snow/water as possible. This simple step will speed up the entire process.
Note: Do not shake the goggles by the lens, but hold them by the frame.
#2 Let Them Air Dry
Goggle lenses often have hydrophobic coatings on the outside and anti-fog coatings on the inside. Rubbing the lens while wet might remove these coatings. Therefore, let the lenses air-dry as much as possible.
#3 Clean the Outside of the Lens
When the lens is completely dry, gently clean the outside with a dry microfiber cloth. Apply light pressure while rubbing the lens in small circular motions.
#4 Clean the Inside of the Lens
The inside of the lens is the most fragile part, coated with a crucial anti-fog layer. The coating on the lens can easily be removed during cleaning, especially if the lens is wet.
For this reason, only perform this step if necessary.
If you want to clean the inside, take a dry microfiber cloth and gently dab at dirty spots. Never rub across the entire lens.
Pro Tip: Removing the lens makes cleaning the inside easier.
Note: If the anti-fog coating gets removed unintentionally, it can be reapplied using a spray. However, it won’t be as effective as the manufacturer’s application, and you’ll need to reapply it frequently.
How to Clean Snowboard Goggles When Riding
Imagine you’re snowboarding, and your goggles accidentally get covered in snow. Do you want to stop, let them dry, etc.?
Absolutely not! A quick wipe with your glove, and you’re ready to go, but you risk scratching the lens.
Here are some tips for cleaning without losing time or scratching the lens:
#1 Shake the Goggles
Shake the snowboard goggles to remove as much snow or water as possible. Sometimes, this is enough to continue snowboarding.
#2 Use a Microfiber Cloth
If shaking the goggles isn’t sufficient, dab the wet or snowy part of the outside of the lens with a microfiber cloth.
But never clean the inside; you will do it at home!
Pro Tip: Always carry a microfiber cloth while snowboarding so you have it handy.
So, as you’ve understood, snowboard goggles are fragile. Avoid cleaning them hastily, or the lens won’t last long.
Other Tips for Snowboard Goggles
#1 Avoid Using Chemicals
Do not use any kind of chemical products to clean the lens, including those for regular glasses. Using such products risks removing lens coatings, especially the anti-fog coating.
#2 Do Not Place Them Lens-Down
When removing snowboard goggles, avoid placing them with the lens facing downward to prevent scratches.
#3 If Possible, Avoid Cleaning the Inside of the Lens
As mentioned, the inside of the lens is more easily damaged due to the anti-fog coating. Therefore, avoid cleaning it unless strictly necessary. If needed, follow the provided tips.
#4 Do Not Keep Them on the Helmet
Keeping the goggles on the helmet increases the chances of snow entering and reaching the inside of the lens.
#5 Buy a Hard Case
Investing in a hard case is a good way to protect your snowboard goggles.
Now that you have all the necessary information on how to clean snowboard goggles without damaging them, share these tips with your snowboard enthusiast friends!
I also suggest you read our guide on how to choose snowboard goggles.
And you, do you know any other useful tips? Let us know in the comments below!
