How to Remove Marks From Your Face Shield

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Removing Marks From Your Face Shield

Step 1

Wash Your Hands

Wash your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds with soap and water, then dry with a clean towel.

Put on a pair of clean disposable gloves to avoid applying more fingerprints and contaminants to your face shield during the cleaning process.

Step 2

Wipe Down Your Face Shield

Wet a clean cloth or paper towel with tap water.

Gently wipe the full surface area of the face shield’s plastic from side to side with the wet cloth or paper towel. Repeat on other side of the plastic. This may remove some or all of the visible marks on your shield.

If you are satisfied with the results, you can move on to read "How to Disinfect and Reuse Your Face Shield".

If you can still see marks or fingerprints continue to Step 3. 

Step 3

Apply a Detergent Solution

Detergent can effectively break down stubborn oils from fingerprints and contaminants to help remove them from the surface of your shield. 

To create a detergent solution, mix a small amount of regular detergent (i.e. dish soap) with tap water in a bowl.

Soak a clean cloth or paper towel in the solution. Avoiding the foam and elastic strap, thoroughly wipe down the front and back of your shield for at least 20 seconds. 

Step 4

Wipe Off Detergent Solution

Continuing to avoid the foam and elastic strap, repeat Step 2 to wipe away the detergent solution.

Optional: Hold your face shield under running tap water to wash away the detergent solution. 

Step 5

Dry Your Face Shield

• Leave on a clean, flat surface to air dry, or 
• Pat down with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel, or
• Hang on a coat hanger or clothing rack until completely dry.

Additional Information

Still see marks on your face shield?

Repeat steps 3 to 5 or try using a more concentrated detergent solution.

Will this remove viruses and bacteria like COVID-19?

No, this process is for general clarity maintenance of your face shield. For guidelines on how to remove bacteria and viruses, read "How to Disinfect and Reuse Your Face Shield".

Will this remove scuffs and scratches?

While some scuffs may be removed by following this cleaning process, it will not be effective against physical scratches from general use.

References

• CDC Strategies for optimizing the supply of eye protection
• CDC Operational considerations for personal protective equipment
• Government of Canada Hand washing guidelines
• Public Health Ontario Cleaning and disinfection for public settings
• BC Ministry of Health Cleaning and disinfection instructions for eye/facial protection

Recommended Articles

• How to Disinfect and Reuse Your Face Shield
• How to Wear Your Face Shield