Wearing contact lenses offers flexibility and freedom, but proper care is crucial to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable. Whether you’re new to lenses or need a refresher, this guide covers essential care tips, types of lens solutions, replacement schedules, and how to troubleshoot common contact lens issues.
Proper Handling and Cleaning of Contact Lenses
To prevent eye infections and ensure the comfort and longevity of your lenses, you must handle them with clean hands and follow a consistent hygiene routine. Contact lens care is very important to ensure that not only would you not experience discomfort but also to ensure your eye health.
Handling Tips
- Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching your lenses.
- Use a lint-free towel to dry hands to avoid getting fibers on lenses.
- Handle lenses with your fingertips, not nails, to avoid tears or contamination.
- Inspect lenses before use. Do not use if they are damaged or if the packaging seal is broken.
- Avoid exposing lenses to water—never rinse them with tap water or wear them while swimming or showering.
Daily Cleaning Routine (for reusable lenses)
- Remove the lens and place it in your palm.
- Apply a few drops of the recommended solution.
- Gently rub the lens with your fingertip in a circular motion for 10–15 seconds.
- Rinse the lens again with solution before placing it in the clean lens case.
- Fill the case with fresh solution—never top off or reuse old solution.
Note: Daily disposable lenses should be discarded after each use and never reused.
Comparison of Contact Lens Solution Types
Not all contact lens solutions are created equal. The right one depends on your lens type, eye sensitivity, and lifestyle.
| Solution Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multipurpose Solution | Most soft contact lens users | Cleans, rinses, disinfects, and stores lenses | Convenient and easy to use |
| Hydrogen Peroxide-Based | Sensitive eyes, deep cleaning | Strong disinfection, preservative-free | Must neutralize before inserting; more steps |
| Saline Solution | Rinsing lenses or dissolving tablets | Gentle, contains no disinfectant | Does not disinfect—used in combination only |
| Daily Cleaner (Separate) | For removing heavy deposits | Powerful cleaning when needed | Must be used with disinfecting solution |
| Enzymatic Protein Remover | Monthly/extended wear lenses | Removes protein buildup | Weekly use; not a complete solution |
Pro Tip: Never mix different brands of solution unless advised by your eye care provider.
Understanding Contact Lens Replacement Schedules
Replacing your contact lenses as recommended is critical to prevent discomfort, infection, or eye damage. Here’s a breakdown of common replacement schedules:
| Lens Type | Replacement Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Disposable | Every day | Worn once, then discarded |
| Bi-weekly Disposable | Every 14 days | Requires nightly cleaning |
| Monthly Disposable | Every 30 days | Clean and store nightly |
| Extended Wear | Up to 7 days continuous (some up to 30) | Approved for overnight wear; not for everyone |
| Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) | 6–12 months or longer | Custom fit, requires regular cleaning |
Tip: Set calendar reminders or use apps to track your lens schedule and avoid overwearing.
Troubleshooting Common Contact Lens Problems
Even experienced users can run into issues. Here are solutions for some of the most common contact lens concerns.
1. Dry Eyes or Discomfort
Possible causes: Over wearing lenses, dry environments, extended screen time, incorrect lens type
Solutions:
- Use preservative-free lubricating drops
- Take breaks from screens
- Switch to daily disposables or moisture-rich lenses
- Avoid sleeping in lenses
2. Blurry Vision
Possible causes: Dirty lenses, incorrect prescription, deposits
Solutions:
- Clean or replace lenses
- Verify the lens is not inside out
- Schedule an eye exam if problem persists
3. Red or Irritated Eyes
Possible causes: Lens allergies, infection, or over wear
Solutions:
- Remove lenses immediately
- Do not wear until eyes are fully healed
- See an optometrist if symptoms worsen
4. Lens Feels “Stuck” in Eye
Possible causes: Lens dried out on the eye, improper removal technique
Solutions:
- Apply lubricating drops and blink until the lens moves freely
- Wash hands and gently remove
- Never forcefully remove a dry lens
5. Frequent Lens Tears
Possible causes: Long nails, rough handling, old lenses
Solutions:
- Use fingertips, not nails, to handle
- Replace lenses regularly
- Consider switching to a more durable lens type
Final Thoughts
Proper contact lens care and maintenance of your contact lenses can make a significant difference in your eye health and overall comfort. Whether you’re a daily disposable user or prefer monthly lenses, following best practices for cleaning, storing, and replacing your lenses ensures clearer vision and fewer complications.
When in doubt, you can consult our team of qualified optometrist for more personalized advice. And remember—your eyes deserve the same care you give the rest of your body. Book an appointment with us to ensure your eyes get the best care.