What you’ll need
- A precision screwdriver with a small Phillips or flat bit (usually 1.2–1.8 mm)
- A soft cloth or towel
- Good light
Steps
- Lay a towel down. Those screws are tiny and love to bounce off the table.
- Fold the arm open and find the small screw in the hinge, where the arm meets the frame.
- Pick a bit that fits snugly. If it slips around in the screw head, try the next size.
- Turn clockwise, gently. Stop as soon as it feels firm. Overtightening can crack the frame or make the arm stiff.
- Test it. Open and close the arm a few times. It should move smoothly and stay put.
- Do the other side while you’re there.
If the screw is missing or keeps coming loose
Optometrists sell replacement hinge screws, often for free or a couple of dollars. For screws that keep loosening, a tiny dot of clear nail polish on the thread helps hold them. If the hinge itself is broken, or they’re expensive frames with spring hinges, take them to an optometrist.
More small fixes coming soon. In the meantime, read our story.