Wearing contact lenses is convenient and offers clear, crisp vision, but proper care is essential to avoid discomfort and protect eye health. Whether you’re new to lenses or have been using them for years, following a good routine for contact lens care is key to long-lasting comfort and clear sight. Here’s a practical guide on how to clean, store, and maintain your lenses.
Why Proper Contact Lens Care Matters
Contact lens care ensures that your lenses remain comfortable and your eyes healthy. Poor care can lead to discomfort, blurry vision, or, in severe cases, infections. Following a routine for contact lens cleaning and hygiene will reduce these risks.
Step-by-step cleaning:
- Wash your hands: Use soap without creams or oils, and dry your hands with a lint-free towel before handling lenses. This simple step is a major part of contact lens hygiene, as it prevents dirt and bacteria from getting onto your lenses.
- Rub and rinse your lenses: Place your lens in the palm of your hand, apply a few drops of a multipurpose contact lens solution, and gently rub the lens with your finger for about 20 seconds. This removes deposits and microorganisms. After rubbing, rinse the lens with more solution before storing it in the case.
- Soak your lenses: Store your lenses in a clean case filled with fresh solution. Allow them to soak for the recommended time, usually 4-8 hours, depending on the solution used.
Ultrasonic cleaners are an advanced option for contact lens cleaning. These devices provide a deeper clean by using sound waves to remove dirt and debris from the lenses. They are especially recommended for those who want the best cleaning results without manual rubbing.
Use the Right Contact Lens Solution
There are several types of contact lens care systems, and your optometrist can help you choose the best one for your lenses. Two main types are:
- Multipurpose solutions: These are all-in-one solutions for cleaning, rinsing, and storing lenses.
- Hydrogen peroxide-based systems: These require a neutralizing step and are known for deep cleaning, but they can’t be used directly in the eye.
It’s important to avoid generic or outdated solutions, as these may not be compatible with modern lens materials.
Keep Your Lens Case Clean
Your contact lens case plays a vital role in maintaining good contact lens hygiene. Clean it regularly with your contact lens solution (never water) and allow it to air dry. Replace the case every 1-3 months to avoid contamination.
Wear and Replace Lenses as Directed
It’s tempting to extend the wear of your lenses, but doing so increases the risk of eye problems. Follow the replacement schedule recommended by your eye doctor—whether daily, bi-weekly, or monthly—and never wear lenses past their intended use.
Common Contact Lens Problems and Solutions
- Dry eyes or discomfort: If your eyes feel dry or irritated, use lubricating eye drops that are safe for contact lenses. Avoid eye drops designed to reduce redness, as these may damage the lenses.
- Blurry vision: Dirty or damaged lenses can cause blurry vision. Make sure to clean your lenses properly and inspect them for any signs of wear.
- Red or irritated eyes: If your eyes are red or irritated, remove your lenses immediately. This could be a sign of an infection or an allergic reaction to your contact lens solution.
Do's and Don'ts of Contact Lens Care
Do’s:
- Do wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses.
- Do use fresh solution each time you clean and store your lenses. Never reuse old solution.
- Do clean your lenses by rubbing and rinsing them with the recommended contact lens solution.
- Do replace your contact lens case regularly to avoid contamination.
- Do follow the wear and replacement schedule advised by your optometrist.
Don’ts:
- Don’t use tap water to clean or store your lenses, as it can contain microorganisms like Acanthamoeba, which can lead to severe infections. Always use a proper contact lens solution, and avoid using water to rinse your lenses or case.
- Don’t sleep in your lenses unless they are specifically designed for overnight wear. Sleeping in lenses can reduce oxygen flow to your eyes, increasing the risk of infection.
- Don’t top off old or homemade solution—always use fresh solution for cleaning and storing. Never use homemade saline solutions for your lenses, as they don't provide the necessary disinfection.
- Don’t use expired solutions; they may not effectively clean your lenses.
- Don’t wear your lenses in water (pools, hot tubs, or the ocean) without using protective goggles.
Ultrasonic Cleaners: A Deep Clean for Your Lenses
If you’re looking for the best contact lens care, an ultrasonic cleaner might be worth considering. These devices use sound waves to vibrate the cleaning solution, providing a more thorough clean than manual rubbing. They are especially useful if you frequently experience lens deposits or discomfort.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining proper contact lens hygiene ensures that your lenses remain comfortable and safe to wear. By cleaning your lenses daily, using the right solutions, and following the do’s and don’ts, you’ll protect your eye health and enjoy clearer vision. Always consult your optometrist for personalized advice and make sure to attend regular eye check-ups to keep your vision in top condition.