Contact lenses are a convenient, comfortable, and visually freeing option for vision correction. Unfortunately, if they're not taken care of properly, they can also be a hazard to your long-term visual clarity and eye health. Good contact lens hygiene helps prevent infections, reduces discomfort, and protects your long-term eye health. Whether you’re a new wearer or a seasoned user, following best practices is essential. Below, our Austin eye care team at Lone Star Eye takes a comprehensive look at how to clean contact lenses, prevent common problems, and ensure contact lens safety every day.
How to Properly Use Contact Lenses
Before inserting or removing lenses, always wash your hands with soap and water, and dry them with a lint-free towel. This reduces the risk of introducing bacteria to your eyes.
Inserting Lenses:
Inspect your lens to ensure it isn’t inside out.
Rinse it with the appropriate solution—not water!
Gently place the lens on your fingertip, pull down your lower eyelid, and look up as you insert the lens onto your eye.
Removing Lenses:
Look up, pull down your lower eyelid, and gently pinch the lens to remove it.
Clean and store the lens immediately if reusable.
How to Clean Contact Lenses
Proper cleaning is vital to avoid eye infections like keratitis or conjunctivitis. Here’s a safe, effective routine for reusable lenses:
- Rub and Rinse: After removal, place the lens in your palm, add solution, and gently rub for 10-15 seconds.
- Rinse Again: Use fresh contact lens solution to rinse off debris.
- Store Correctly: Place the lens in a clean case filled with new solution. Never reuse old solution or mix different types. Avoid rinsing or storing lenses with tap water or using saliva—both can carry harmful microorganisms.
Choosing the Best Contact Lens Solutions
Not all solutions are the same. Your eye care provider can recommend the best contact lens solutions based on your lens type and sensitivity.
Common types include:
- Multipurpose Solutions: Clean, rinse, disinfect, and store all in one.
- Hydrogen Peroxide Solutions: Excellent for deep cleaning, but require a neutralizing step before lenses can be worn.
- Saline Solutions: Mainly for rinsing, not disinfecting.
Stick to one type unless your doctor advises otherwise, and always follow manufacturer instructions.
Tips for Contact Lens Hygiene and Safety
- Replace Your Case Every 1–3 Months: Bacteria can build up over time.
- Follow the Replacement Schedule: Daily, biweekly, or monthly lenses should be replaced on time—don’t stretch usage.
- Never Sleep in Lenses Unless Approved: It increases the risk of serious infections.
- Avoid Swimming or Showering in Lenses: Water exposure can introduce harmful microorganisms.
- Listen to Your Eyes: If you experience redness, pain, or blurry vision, remove your lenses and contact your eye doctor immediately.
Common Contact Lens Problems to Watch For
Even with proper care, issues can arise. Here are a few to be aware of:
- Dry Eyes: Use lubricating drops compatible with contacts.
- Protein Build-Up: Switch to a more effective cleaning solution or consider daily lenses.
- Redness/Irritation: May indicate an allergy, infection, or poor fit. See your optometrist for evaluation.
Healthy Habits for Long-Term Eye Health
Adopting good habits around contact lens care is key to enjoying clear, comfortable vision. By keeping your lenses clean, choosing the right solutions, and monitoring your eyes for changes, you’ll reduce the risk of complications and extend the comfort of lens wear.
For personalized advice or help finding the best cleaning solution, schedule an appointment with our local optometry team. Safe, healthy eyes start with smart care choices!