How to Remove the Lens from Plastic Frames

By: Melissa King

Kraig Scarbinsky/Photodisc/Getty Images

When you have a favorite pair of glasses, it's upsetting if the lenses get scratched or the frame gets bent or broken. But even if this happens to you, you don't need to shell out the cash for a new pair. Glasses with plastic frames are usually quite flexible, so lenses pop out easily with a bit of coaxing. You can remove the lenses from your glasses by taking out the screws in the frame, or by soaking them in hot water to make them more pliable.

Screw Removal

Step 1

Clean the screws on your frames with a bit of warm, soapy water. This removes built-up debris and makes them easier to remove.

Step 2

Remove the screws around the frames using a screwdriver from an eyeglass repair kit. If the screws still won't come out after washing them, gently scrub around them with a soft old toothbrush — then try removing them again.

Step 3

Press lightly on the lenses to pop them out of the frames. If the lenses won't come out this way, you'll need to try removing them with heat.

Heat Removal

Step 1

Fill a small bowl with hot water. Don't use boiling water, as it may cause injury or melt the plastic frames.

Step 2

Put the glasses in the water and allow them to soak for one minute. The heat will warm and soften the plastic, making the lenses easier to remove.

Step 3

Remove the glasses from the water carefully and dry them off.

Step 4

Grasp the frames in one hand, then use your other hand to press carefully on the lenses and pop them out. If they do not come out, soak the frames in the water for another minute or two.