How to Replace Silicone Nose Pads on Glasses

By Noblepack UK | Published: 2026-10-19

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to replace silicone nose pads on glasses with this step-by-step guide. Includes common mistakes to avoid and tips for a secure fit.

Quick answer

Replacing silicone nose pads on glasses is a simple DIY task that takes a few minutes. You just need a replacement pad and a small screwdriver or your fingernail to pop off the old one and push in the new one.

Why replace silicone nose pads yourself?

Nose pads wear out over time, turning yellow, hardening, or falling off. Replacing them yourself saves a trip to the optician and costs very little. Silicone pads are flexible, comfortable, and easy to install with no special tools required.

The most common issue is getting the wrong size. Pads come in different widths (e.g., 12mm to 15mm). Using a pad that is too small leaves gaps, while one that is too large may not fit the frame arm properly.

Step-by-step guide to replace silicone nose pads

1. Remove the old nose pad: Hold the glasses firmly with one hand. Use your thumbnail or a small flat-head screwdriver to gently pry the old pad off the metal arm. It should slide off without much force. Do not twist the pad off—this can bend the metal arm. Pull straight out.
2. Check the arm and clean the area: Inspect the metal arm for dirt, rust, or bent ends. Wipe it clean with a dry cloth. If the arm is bent, gently straighten it with pliers before installing the new pad. A bent arm will cause the new pad to sit crooked. Fix it now to avoid an uneven fit.
3. Select the correct size: Compare the old pad with the new one. If you don't have the old one, measure the arm width. The pad should fit snugly without forcing. Most frames use 13mm or 14mm pads. Using a pad that is too small will cause it to fall off; too large and it won't seat properly. When in doubt, choose the size that matches the arm width.
4. Push the new pad into place: Align the hole in the silicone pad with the metal arm. Push it straight onto the arm until it clicks or sits flush. The pad should not wobble. If the pad does not slide on easily, you may have the wrong size or the arm may be damaged. Do not force it—remove and recheck the size.
5. Test and adjust: Put the glasses on and check the fit. The pads should sit evenly against your nose. If one side feels higher or lower, remove the pad and re-seat it, or adjust the arm angle slightly with pliers. If the glasses still feel uneven after adjusting the pad, the frame itself may be misaligned—visit an optician for a frame adjustment.

Products mentioned

Oval Push-In Silicone Nose Pad: Oval Push-In Silicone Nose Pads are available in four sizes: 12mm, 13mm, 14mm, and 15mm, and come in a pack of 40 pieces in a clear container. Having multiple sizes in one pack lets you match the exact fit for your frames without guessing, and the clear container keeps them organized for future use.
Oval Push-In Silicone Nose Pad