Zeiss Lens Wipes: Read This Before You Buy

Person wiping eyeglasses with wipes

Zeiss is the GOAT when it comes to lenses! 

The brand has become synonymous with superior camera lenses. They also lead when it comes to lenses for eyeglasses, especially in progressive lenses and subjective refraction technology.

Are Zeiss Lens Wipes the GOAT of lens wipes, too? They offer some of the most popular lens wipes around. But do they deserve the title? 

I dug deep into reviews to see what real users think. Here’s what you need to know before you buy these wipes!

At-a-Glance Summary

This article discusses what Zeiss lens wipes are, and it goes through real user reviews. It also provides alternative eyeglass cleaners to try.

FeatureDetails
Product typePre-moistened disposable lens cleaning wipes
BrandZEISS
Suitable forEyeglasses, sunglasses, camera lenses, binoculars, smartphone screens, tablets, and other optical surfaces
Cleaning solutionAlcohol-based (contains isopropanol)
Individually wrappedYes
Safe for coated lensesYes, including most anti-reflective and other modern lens coatings
Available pack sizes on EZContacts30, 60, and 400 wipes
Best forQuick cleaning at home, work, travel, or on the go
DisposableYes (single-use)

Zeiss Lens Care Products Are Everywhere!

A box of Zeiss lens wipes
Zeiss Lens Wipes

When it comes to cleaning your eyewear lenses, Zeiss is a name that keeps popping up. A quick search on EZContact for lens care shows that six out of 10 of the products are from Zeiss. It’s the same when you do a Google search. It’s like you can’t spell lens care without Zeiss.

So, does it follow that they’re the best around? Are Zeiss Lens Wipes your best option?

The Basics

Here are a few things to know about these lens wipes, according to the company:

  • The lens wipes can be used for various lenses, including those for eyeglasses and cameras.
  • They are formulated with a gentle solution that removes dirt and smudges. 

The fine print also says that Zeiss Lens Wipes contain a gentle amount of Isopropanol (IPA), which is a type of disinfecting alcohol. 

Why Buy Zeiss Lens Wipes?

There are several reasons why buying these wipes for your eyeglasses is a good idea:

  • Convenient and portable: You can bring them anywhere. They fit in the smallest pockets. Clean your lenses anytime you need to.
  • Effectively cleans: Many user reviews say that these wipes work great for their lenses.
  • Versatile: You can also use these on your camera lenses and other optical surfaces.

These are some of the top reasons to try Zeiss Lens Wipes. Now, let’s see what the reviews have to say.

What Reddit Users Say

Eyeglasses in a pool of water
Eyeglasses in a Pool of Water

I went to Reddit to get an idea of how the eyeglasses-wearing community feels about Zeiss Lens Wipes.

There are a lot of Reddit users who think that these lens wipes are reliable for their cleaning needs. One Reddit user asked about this in a thread called ‘Are zeiss wipes safe or not?’

Redditor Nick72b responded:

“If you want wet, ready to use, Zeiss (lens wipes) are consistent and leader. Great as a portable lens wash while staying away from home. Saying that I’ve used 50 packs for 1.5usd equivalent without issue.”

Reddit screenshot

EndureTyrant followed up with their three-year history with the brand:

“My glasses are 3 years old now and I’ve only used Zeiss wipes, mostly because I am such an oily person that my glasses get a ton of oil on them multiple times a day, and microfiber cloths with the spray on solution start just smearing after 2-3 days, and even washing the cloths (I’ve tried hand washing and machine) doesn’t help.

After 3 years, I’ve now started to notice a bit of delamination in one spot, and honestly it’s probably not the wipes fault. I idiotically wore my glasses into the sauna multiple times about a year, and they were nearly ruined.”

Reddit screenshot

Ryvit had more of a mixed experience. Their whole family swears by Zeiss, but Ryvit had issues with the wipes:

“My family swear by Zeiss brand glass wipes, they absolutely do not work for me. What’s wrong with my glasses?

Like, after I use them, my glasses are pretty smeared, almost like they’re… greasy? I don’t really eat greasy food, work in a greasy environment, or touch my glasses very often, so I’m not sure what’s going on.


It’s really frustrating because it seems I can never get my glasses clean, even after being a glasses wearer for 3 years now, I can barely ever get them fully clean.

What do you recommend for someone with my issue?”

Reddit screenshot

Other users share their frustrations to the point of talking trash about the brand. In a thread titled ‘Zeiss Lens Wipes are garbage,’ Grizzlypass said: 

“Picked up a box of Zeiss Lens Wipes just to hit the free shipping limit on my Amazon order. WTF is this garbage? It leaves streaks and little pieces of lint all over my glasses. Might as well use my shirt.”

Reddit screenshot
Reddit Screenshot

Ricosuave79 affirmed Grizzlypass’ experience: 

“Agreed. I bought some to use once in a great while if I needed a quick clean when away from my house. My experience mirrors yours.

Oh well. Guess no proper cleaning unless I’m home as I use a drop of blue Dawn dish soap to under room temperature water to clean my glasses (works awesome).”  

Reddit screenshot

Users also chimed in with suggestions for alternatives. Mister_nixon swears by Peeps. He said: 

“I’ve started using Peeps to clean my glasses. Wish I’d known about them earlier. The brush is key, I think because it makes sure that the dust that otherwise scratches your lens gets brushed off before wiping. And the pads clean better than any cloth I’ve ever used. Much less stuff to carry around than a bottle of cleaner and a cloth, too.

If anyone who knows better wants to tell me I shouldn’t use them, I’m happy to listen. But I’ve historically been bad at keeping scratches off of my lenses, and I’ve gone many months now.”

Reddit screenshot

Own_Log_3764 shared another alternative: 

“I use dish soap (just a tiny drop) then a microfiber cloth. One pair of glasses cleans up well. The other pair from a different company has horrible coatings and never gets completely clean.”

Reddit screenshot

These Reddit threads are interesting exchanges full of positive, negative, and mixed reviews. With such a wide range of opinions, the best option might be to try Zeiss Lens Wipes for yourself.

The Zeiss Lens Wipes Available

Box of Zeiss Lens Wipes
Box of Zeiss Lens Wipes

If you decide to try out Zeiss wipes, they’re available on EZContacts in three different pack sizes: 30, 60, and 400. If you only reach for a wipe now and then, a smaller pack should do the job. But buying in bulk can save you quite a bit of money over time if you use them often.

Here’s how the three pack sizes compare:

Pack SizePriceCost Per Wipe
30 wipes$3.9913.3¢
60 wipes$5.959.9¢
400 wipes$26.956.7¢

Consider Your Alternatives

But if you decide Zeiss wipes aren’t for you, what are your alternatives? Here are a few to try out:

Peeps Eyeglass Cleaner

Peeps Cleaner - Blue
Peeps Cleaner – Blue

Redditor Mister_Nixon recommended the Peeps Eyeglass Cleaner as an alternative to ZEISS Lens Wipes, and it makes sense why. Instead of a pre-moistened wipe, Peeps is a reusable pocket-sized cleaning tool.

One end features a retractable soft brush for removing dust and loose debris, while the other has two carbon-coated cleaning pads that gently grip both sides of the lens to lift away fingerprints, oils, and smudges.

Unlike disposable lens wipes, there’s nothing to throw away after each use. So if you’re looking for a more eco-friendly option, it’s worth considering. EZContacts stocks the Peeps Cleaner in Black, Blue, Green, and Smoky Space Gray.

Here’s what to know about Peeps Cleaners:

FeatureDetails
Product typeReusable dry lens cleaning tool
BrandPeeps
Cleaning methodRetractable brush removes dust, while carbon cleaning pads remove fingerprints and oils
Cleaning solution requiredNo
ReusableYes
Pocket-sizedYes
Suitable forEyeglasses, sunglasses, reading glasses
Available colors on EZContactsBlack, Blue, Green, and Smoky Space Gray
Best forEco-friendly glasses cleaning without wipes

Microfiber Cloths

Microfiber cloths are machine-washable, lens-safe cloths that usually come with every eyewear purchase. They’re best for daily cleaning. It’s best to use them with lens cleaning solutions or after washing your glasses under running water with a gentle detergent. 

Lens Cleaning Solutions (Sprays)

Person examines their glasses
Person Examines Their Glasses

Lens cleaning solutions are specially formulated solutions that clean off dirt, grime, and smudges from your eyeglasses. You need to wipe the liquid off with a microfiber cloth. Make sure to choose solutions that do not contain alcohol or other abrasive substances.

DIY Cleaning Solutions

You can also clean your glasses under running water with a small drop of gentle soap. Have your microfiber cloth nearby for proper drying.

Other Branded Wipes

There are other lens wipe brands that you can try, including Opticlear wipes, Durable Anti-static Glasses Lens Wipes, and Keep It Handy Lens Cleaning Wipes.

Cleaning your eyewear until it’s spotless is, of course, crucial to seeing as clearly as possible. So, it’s best to keep your Zeiss Lens Wipes (or chosen alternative) handy. Proper cleaning guarantees that you get to use your glasses for a long time!

FAQs About Zeiss Lens Wipes

Can you use Zeiss Lens Wipes on glasses with anti-reflective coating?

Yes. Zeiss states that its lens wipes are suitable for eyeglasses with anti-reflective (AR) coatings. They’re also safe for most modern scratch-resistant and blue light coatings. But it’s always worth checking the manufacturer’s care instructions first.

Can you use Zeiss Lens Wipes every day?

Zeiss Lens Wipes are designed for regular use, and many people use them every day without issue. If your glasses are especially dusty or sandy, it’s best to rinse them with water first to avoid rubbing abrasive particles across the lenses, which could cause scratches.

Can you use Zeiss Lens Wipes on sunglasses?

These wipes are suitable for prescription sunglasses and non-prescription sunglasses with coated lenses. Just make sure the lenses are free from grit before wiping them.

Can you use Zeiss Lens Wipes on camera lenses?

Yes, Zeiss designed the wipes for optical surfaces, including camera lenses, binoculars, and telescopes. They’re a popular choice among photographers because each wipe is individually wrapped, making them easy to carry with you.

Are Zeiss Lens Wipes safe for phone and tablet screens?

Generally, yes. Many people use them on phones, tablets, and laptop screens. Zeiss also markets them for electronic displays. That said, it’s worth checking your device manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations before using any alcohol-based product.

Do Zeiss Lens Wipes contain alcohol?

Yes, they contain a small amount of isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol), which helps dissolve fingerprints, oils, and smudges while evaporating quickly to leave the lenses clean.

Why do Zeiss Lens Wipes sometimes leave streaks?

Streaking is usually caused by one of three things: very oily lenses, wiping away too much dirt without rinsing first, or using a wipe that’s begun to dry out.

The best results typically come from using a fresh wipe and allowing the lens to air dry for a few seconds before polishing with a clean microfiber cloth if needed.

Are Zeiss Lens Wipes biodegradable?

No. The wipes are disposable, but they’re not biodegradable and shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet. Throw used wipes in the trash.

Can Zeiss Lens Wipes remove scratches?

No. They remove fingerprints, smudges, oils, and dirt, but they can’t fix scratches or damaged lens coatings.

Do Zeiss Lens Wipes expire?

Like most pre-moistened wipes, they have a shelf life of around three years from the date they were manufactured. Over time, the cleaning solution can dry out, making the wipes less effective. Check the production or expiry date on the packaging, and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.


TL;DR 

  • Zeiss Lens Wipes are optic lens cleaning wipes created by Zeiss, a leading name in commercial optics.
  • The wipes are designed to remove dirt, grime, and smudges from your eyeglasses. They are formulated with a cleaning solution that contains a little bit of Isopropanol (IPA).
  • Zeiss Lens Wipes are convenient, versatile, and effective for many users.
  • Reddit users have contrasting opinions on these wipes, with some saying they worked well and others not liking them as much. This just means you need to try them out yourself. 
  • There are alternatives that you can try, too, including Peeps Eyeglass Cleaner, microfiber cloths, lens cleaning solutions, and DIY solutions.

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