Cleaning Your Contact Lenses Properly

Wearing contact lenses is a convenient way to correct vision, but proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial to ensure comfort and eye health. Follow these steps to keep your contact lenses clean and your eyes happy.

Photo by Castorly Stock

Wash Your Hands

Before touching your contact lenses, wash your hands thoroughly with mild soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel to avoid transferring lint or germs to your lenses.

Clean Your Lenses

1. Clean Thoroughly: Place the lens in the palm of your hand and apply a few drops of multipurpose contact lens solution. Rub the lens gently with your fingertip in a circular motion for about 20 seconds to remove any debris or protein buildup.
2. Rinse Well: Rinse the lens thoroughly with more solution to remove loosened debris and any remaining cleaner.
3. Store or Reapply: Place the cleaned lens in a clean lens case filled with fresh solution. Repeat the process with the other lens.

Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich

Disinfect Your Lenses

1. Fill the Lens Case: Fill the lens case with fresh multipurpose solution. Avoid reusing old solution, as it may not effectively disinfect the lenses.
2. Soak Overnight: Place the lenses in the case and close the lid securely. Let them soak overnight or for the recommended time specified on the solution label to ensure disinfection.

Clean Your Lens Case

Clean the case regularly with solution, not water, and let it air dry to prevent bacterial growth. Remember to replace your lens case every 1-2 months.

Avoid Water

Never rinse your lenses with water from the tap or saliva. Water can contain microorganisms that can lead to eye infections. Always follow the cleaning instructions recommended by your eye care professional.

Recognize Signs of Trouble

If you experience redness, discomfort, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light, remove your lenses immediately and consult your eye doctor.

Following these steps will help ensure that your contact lenses remain clean, comfortable, and safe for your eyes. Remember, proper cleaning and care are essential for maintaining good eye health and enjoying clear vision every day.

Ivan Yong

Dr. Ivan Yong is an optometrist with over a decade of experience in the optical industry. He earned his doctorate from the Southern California College of Optometry and has practiced in multiple settings, including private practice, community health, and ophthalmology. Dr. Yong aims to expand access to affordable eyewear and improve eye health worldwide.