April 17, 2024 — The Vision Council (TVC)’s latest report, Focused inSights Eyewear Accessories, offers insights into behaviors, preferences, and purchasing patterns among U.S. adults regarding eyewear accessories: eyeglass cases, eyeglass chains/lanyards, microfiber cloths, nose pads, lens cleaning wipes, lens cleaning solution, contact lens cases, contact lens solution, and lubricant eye drops.

According to Alysse Henkel, TVC’s vice president of research and inSights, the report reveals significant opportunity for eyecare professionals to emphasize the proper eyewear care and maintenance to patients and consumers. “By educating individuals on the importance of using appropriate cleaning methods and storing their eyewear properly, we can help them preserve the quality and durability of their eyewear, ultimately ensuring they see their best,” says Henkel.

Here are some key takeaways from the report:

• Just over one-third (36%) of respondents use their shirt or other clothing item to clean their glasses.
• One in 5 eyewear users admit to not returning their glasses to their case when they’re not being worn, with nonprescription wearers being the most likely culprits.
• Those who purchased accessories at an optical retailer bought cleaning solution (71%), cases (69%), or cloths (68%) immediately following their eye exam. TVC shares that this indicates a correlation between recommendations from an ECP and accessory purchases.
• On their last eyewear accessory purchase, most consumers shopped at big-box stores and spent $25 or less.
• TVC’s findings reveal higher usage of contact lens-related accessories such as cases, cleaning solution, and lubricant eye drops, underlining the specialized care and storage requirements associated with contact lenses.

The full report is available here as a complimentary download for members and for nonmembers to purchase.