For new contact lens wearers, learning to put them in and take them out is often the biggest hurdle. The idea of touching your eye can feel strange, and it’s normal to be a bit nervous at first. But here’s the good news: after a little practice, this process will become a fast and easy part of your daily routine, just like brushing your teeth.
Mastering this simple skill is what allows you to enjoy all the benefits of contact lenses. This guide will walk you through the steps for putting lenses in and taking them out safely. The most important part of handling contacts is good hygiene, which is the best way to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.
How to Put In Your Contact Lenses
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Wash Hands | This is the first and most important step. Wash your hands with soap and water. Rinse them well and dry them with a clean, lint-free towel. |
| Step 2: Prepare the Lens | It is a good habit to always start with the same eye. This prevents you from mixing up your prescriptions. Gently slide the lens out of its case and scoop it onto the tip of your index finger. |
| Step 3: Check the Lens | Look at the lens from the side. It should look like a small, smooth bowl. If the edges flare out, it is inside-out. Gently flip it over and check again. This is sometimes called the “taco test.” |
| Step 4: Hold Eye Open | Use your free hand to reach over your head and hold your upper eyelid open, right at the lash line. Use the middle finger of the hand holding the lens to pull your lower eyelid down. |
| Step 5: Place the Lens | Look straight ahead into the mirror or slightly up. Calmly and gently place the lens on the coloured part of your eye (your iris). Do not rush. The lens will settle on its own. |
| Step 6: Blink and Settle | Slowly let go of your eyelids. Close your eye for a moment and then blink a few times. Your vision should be clear and the lens should feel comfortable. That’s it! |
How to Take Out Your Contact Lenses
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Wash Hands | Just like putting them in, always start with clean, dry hands. |
| Step 2: Hold Eye Open | Use one hand to hold your upper eyelid open. Use the middle finger of your other hand to pull your lower eyelid down. |
| Step 3: Slide the Lens | Look up toward the ceiling. Use your index finger to slide the lens from the centre of your eye down to the white part. This makes it much easier to pinch. |
| Step 4: Pinch and Remove | Gently pinch the lens between your thumb and index finger and remove it from your eye. |
| Step 5: Discard or Clean | If you wear daily lenses, throw the lens away. If you wear bi-weekly or monthly lenses, place it in your palm, add fresh solution, and clean it as your optometrist instructed before storing it. |
Tips for New Wearers
What if it feels wrong? If the lens feels scratchy or uncomfortable, take it out. Rinse it with contact lens solution (never water) and check for any dust or eyelashes. Then try again.
What if the lens is stuck? Do not panic. This usually happens if your eye is dry. Use a few rewetting drops, blink, and wait a minute. The lens should move more easily, and you can try to remove it again.
Be patient with yourself. It takes time. Soon, you will be able to do it in seconds without even thinking about it.
Ready To Try Contact Lenses?
Learning to handle your contacts is the biggest step. Once you have this down, you are ready to enjoy the freedom of clear vision.
If you need to stock up on supplies like solution or rewetting drops, VisionPros has you covered. We are a Canadian company that makes it simple to get all your eye care needs.
