At some point, you’ll likely need to update your glasses prescription. It’s a great way to enjoy shopping for a new, stylish pair of frames. But there’s one important question many people ask themselves: what do you do with the old pair?
You can always:
- See if your optometrist can reuse the frames
- Donate them
- Recycle them
- Repurpose them for an art project
And don’t forget to replace your glasses when you’re done!
See if Your Optometrist Can Reuse the Frames
Before you part ways with your old spectacles, consider paying a visit to your trusted optometrist. There’s a chance that we can reuse those frames and pass them along to a new owner. You never know!
But maybe you absolutely love the look but can’t use the old prescription anymore. If that’s the case, we might be able to fit new lenses into your old frames. That way, you can keep your tried and tested style with a pair of lenses that do their job. It’s always worth asking about!
It’s an environmentally friendly option that spares you the need to shop for a new pair of frames. That’s a win-win.
Donate Your Old Frames
If you don’t want to reuse the frames, or you’re ready to change up your look, why not donate them? West Coast Optical has a donation bin from the Lions Club international for old pairs of glasses. There’s also a charity run by the Lions Club called the Canadian Lions Eyeglass Recycling Centre where you can leave the glasses in designated drop-off bins at locations throughout the city.
You’ll be able to make a difference in someone’s life by gifting them new glasses! If you don’t live in an area serviced by programs like this, you can always swing by your local thrift store and see if they take eyeglasses donations.
Recycle the Glasses
Sometimes, your glasses might just be too beat up to donate. If that’s the case, recycling can be the way to go. Some organizations can break down the glasses to repurpose the materials for something else.
It’s important to remember that regular recycling bins aren’t the way to go, though. Instead, you’ll need to find a mail-in, drop-off, or pickup option like the Recyclepedia app run by the Recycling Council of British Columbia. You can select your area and let them know what you’ll be dropping off—and they’ll take care of the rest!
Fun Ideas for Repurposing an Old Pair of Glasses
For the artsy creator, you might have just found your next project. If you’re feeling crafty, inspired, and ready to make something unique, there are a ton of creative ways to repurpose your old glasses! You can always:
- Pop out the lenses and save them for next year’s Halloween costume
- Use the frames as a miniature photo frame for display
- Hang the frames on the wall and use them to hold necklaces, rings, or any other jewelry
- Bend the frames into a creative 3-D sculpture
- Cut the frames and make custom jewelry
And if you love the frames but don’t want to use them as your main pair of glasses anymore, you could visit your optometrist and see if they’re able to install sunglasses lenses! Then you can bust out your favorite frames whenever you need to cut down glare..
Don’t Forget to Replace Your Glasses
While it’s great to be responsible with your old glasses, it’s just as important to replace them when necessary. Regular eye exams and up-to-date prescriptions are essential for taking care of your eye health. If you’re due for a new pair, come visit us at West Coast Optical. We’re here to help you see the world clearly!
Remember, your old glasses can still make a difference, whether through reuse, donation, recycling, or repurposing. So, don’t just toss them in the trash – give them a new lease on life!
