How to Replace Nose Pads on Glasses?

Eyeglasses are not a singular entity but an amalgamation of different parts, each with its unique and indispensable functions. From the frame front to the temple tips and the nose pads, every tiny element of a pair of spectacles serves a special function.

A rather unsung hero of eyeglasses is the nose pads. They are two small pieces that separate your nose from the rim of the frames. Nose pads are an integral part of spectacles, as they secure and balance the weight of the frames. Besides, nose pads also ensure that your spectacles are snugly fitting and do not slip and slide.

However, just like everything on this planet, glasses’ nose pads are also prone to wear and tear. With everyday use and long-haul wear, nose pads tend to become loose, uncomfortable and eventually deteriorate. If you have been struggling with the comfort of your spectacles, then the nose pads might be the culprit.

But fret not, as worn-off nose pads do not necessarily mean that you have to buy new glasses. In such a context, nose pad replacement comes to the rescue. What is it all about? Let’s find out!

Why Replace Nose Pads for Glasses?

There are multiple reasons why your glasses' nose pads might need replacement. Many people wearing glasses experience discomfort and pain due to their nose pads. Some of the telltale signs of a glasses nose pad replacement are as follows:

• If the nose pads of your glasses are digging into the skin and leaving marks, it means that they are too tight and need replacement.
• When you see dirt and grime accumulation on your nose pads.
• The colour of the nose pads has faded into a pale and murky yellow.
• Your nose pads feel loose and flimsy.
• The nose pads seem worn out because of long-haul wear and tear.

If any of the above contexts resonate with you, then you might need to dabble in nose pad replacement. With timely nose pad replacement, you can maximise the lifespan and comfort of your favourite pair of glasses and ensure that putting on your spectacles throughout the day feels comfortable and snug.

It is quite easy and simple to replace nose pads on glasses. The process will cost a fraction of what it takes to buy a new pair of glasses, as replacement nose pads are available at an incredibly throwaway price at your nearest optical store. In fact, you can buy nose pads online too.

How to Replace Nose Pads on Glasses: Four Preliminary Considerations

Before you dabble into glasses nose pad replacement, certain considerations need addressing. For a foolproof replacement, you must choose replacement nose pads that are of the right shape, size, material and fit.

1. Mounting Method of the Nose Pads

There are various types of nose pads, based on material and mounting method. Based on the types of nose pads already affixed to your favourite pair of glasses, you can choose any one of the following nose pads -

• Push-in
• Screw-in
• Adhesive Type

2. Shape

Nose pads are available in an array of shapes, including oval, D-shaped, teardrop, etc. You should choose replacement nose pads whose shape is similar to the existing ones on your spectacles.

3. Size

The measurement of nose pads is taken in millimetres along the vertical stretch. The size of your replacement nose pads should match those of the existing ones. The most common nose pad sizes include -

• 9 mm
• 11 mm
• 13 mm
• 25 mm

4. Material

Nose pads come in an array of materials, such as silicone, PVC, polycarbonate, etc. Of course, the most common ones are silicone.

After you have considered the four basic considerations mentioned above and purchased nose pads that replicate the existing ones vis-a-vis mounting method, shape, size, and material, it is time to delve into the actual process.

How to Replace Screw-in Nose Pads?

As the name suggests, screw-in nose pads are those that are mounted onto your frames with the help of screws. They are the most common nose pads found in spectacles. If you see a tiny screw holding the nose pads in position, it is quite likely that they are screw-in nose pads.

For screw-in nose pad replacement, you need the following tools -

• Replacement nose pads
• A small flathead screwdriver, probably 1.0 mm in size
• A magnet
• An extra screw

After you have the tools in hand, it is time to indulge in the actual replacement process.

• Step 1 - Wash your hands.
• Step 2 - Remove the depreciated nose pad, carefully unscrewing it from the padded arm.
• Step 3 - Insert the new nose pad into the mount of your frame; make sure that the nose pad is aligned with the screw hole.
• Step 4 - Hold the new nose pad in place and use the magnet to attract the new screw head into the tiny hole.
• Step 5 - Make sure that the screw is vertical to the magnet.
• Step 6 - Remove the magnet from the screw head.
• Step 7 - Use the screwdriver to tighten the screw, ensuring that its head is pointing upwards.

Voila, your glasses have new nose pads in place.

How to Replace Push-in Nose Pads?

When you see a nose pad with a rectangular shape on its back, you know that it is a push-in or push-on nose pad. They do not use screws and are attached to the frame of your glasses with a small rectangular metal piece.

It is quite easy to replace push-in nose pads, as they do not require any extra hardware. You must push the worn-out nose pads out of your glasses with your fingers and snap on the new ones. The steps that you can follow are -

• Wash your hands before dabbling in the glasses replacement process.
• Push the nose pad out with your fingers.
• Place the nose pads on the mount.
• Press the new nose pads gently to secure them in place.

Your glasses are all prepped with a nose pad. Clean the lenses with a microfibre cloth and you are good to go.

How to Replace Adhesive Nose Pads?

Adhesive nose pads are for spectacles that do not come with attached nose pads. They are usually used on acetate frames for individuals who need extra comfort and do not want their glasses to slide down.

To use or replace adhesive nose pads, you have to peel away the back paper of the nose pad to reveal the sticky side. Then, simply attach the nose pad to the portion where the spectacles touch the bridge of the nose.

And, it is as simple as that - your spectacles with adhesive nose pads are ready.

Key Takeaways

So, there we have it, a crisp overview of how you can replace nose pads on glasses. The process is simple if you have the right guide handy. At Specscart, we believe that knowledge is power, and our team is always on its haunches to offer you authentic, genuine, and comprehensive information on all things eyeglasses. So, keeping the spirit of readership intact, maybe check out our blog on tightening glasses at home.