Many people buy a new pair of glasses when their prescription changes. Sometimes, they keep the frame but need new lenses. Rather than buying a new set of frames, they can reglaze their current ones.
Some charities accept used eyeglasses. OneSight, for example, combines donated glasses with donations of money and vision care expertise to help those without eye care.
Donate Them
Stuck with a drawer full of forgotten frames? You’re not alone! Before you send those old prescription glasses into the abyss, remember – what to do with old prescription glasses doesn’t just involve tossing them! Many amazing charities collect used glasses and give them a new lease on life.
These frames, whether sunglasses or prescription, can help someone in need see clearly and confidently. One program even lets you upload your old specs online, creating a virtual eyeglass haven based on your prescription. Anyone can then search and find a perfect match! So give your old glasses the gift of sight: donate them and brighten someone’s day.
Another benefit of donating your eyeglasses is that they can be tax deductible. Be sure to speak with a financial professional about determining fair market value and itemizing your donation at tax time.
Recycle Them
If you’ve changed your prescription, need new glasses, or want to switch up your style, consider donating your old frames to a good cause. Millions of people worldwide don’t have access to the proper eye care and vision correction they need, so your old glasses could help them see better.
Glasses can be recycled like other recyclable materials, but removing the lenses is essential before donating or recycling your frames. If you put them in a recycling bin without removing the lenses, they may be sent to landfills.
Many charities accept donated used glasses to redistribute them to those in need, both nationally and internationally. You can donate your frames through bins at doctors’ offices or by mail. If you have designer frames that are still in great shape, there are websites like eBay and Depop where you can sell them.
Hand Them Down
Even the most faithful pair of glasses will eventually reach the end of their lifespan. This is often because they broke or your prescription has changed, but it can also be because you want a new look. Unfortunately, most people throw their old frames away, which is wasteful and detrimental to the environment.
Many charities take used prescription glasses and redistribute them to those in need, both nationally and internationally. You can find drop boxes at various locations, including libraries, banks, small businesses, and schools. Many optometrists collect donated glasses to distribute to organizations that make eye care trips in developing countries.
If they need a spare pair, you could also hand your old glasses with the same prescription to a friend or family member. This can be an excellent option for people who cannot afford new eyewear but still need a set.
Create Art or Decor
If you’re one of the 166.5 million Americans relying on eyeglasses, you’ll likely have to replace your old frames. However, many of us end up with several pairs that are no longer functional – and can end up in landfills.
Rather than toss your old glasses, consider giving them a second life. You can repurpose them into unique home decor or craft projects like picture frames and jewelry holders. You can also make animal art using the lenses or frames or turn them into a creative take on a sun catcher or a magnifying glass sculpture.
You can also offer your old glasses to a friend or family member needing a pair of hand-me-downs. If they have a similar prescription, it can be much cheaper for them to use your old frames than to purchase a new set. You can also try selling or trading your old frames on online marketplaces.
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