When you first get contact lenses, one of the biggest choices you will make is how often to replace them. The three main schedules are daily, bi-weekly (every two weeks), and monthly.
There is no single “best” schedule. The right one for you depends on your lifestyle, your budget, and what your optometrist recommends. Let’s look at the pros and cons of each type so you can make a good choice for your eyes.
Daily Disposable Lenses
Daily disposable lenses are exactly what they sound like. You put in a fresh, new pair in the morning and simply throw them away at night. You never have to clean or store them.
| Daily Lenses: Why People Like Them (Pros) | Daily Lenses: What to Consider (Cons) |
|---|---|
Convenience: This is the easiest-to-use option. There is no need for lens solution, cases, or nightly cleaning. Comfort & Health: A brand new lens every day is great for your eyes. It’s also a good choice for allergies, as deposits don’t have time to build up. Good for Part-Time Wear: If you only wear contacts a few times a week (for sports or going out), dailies are very practical. | Cost: Because you use a new pair every day, dailies often have a higher long-term cost. Waste: This schedule creates the most packaging waste, as each lens is in its own blister pack. |
Dailies might be for you if: You want maximum convenience, have sensitive eyes, or only wear contacts part-time.
Bi-Weekly Lenses (Two-Week Lenses)
Bi-weekly lenses are worn every day for two weeks. You must take them out, clean them, and store them in fresh solution each night. After 14 days, you throw the pair away and open a new one.
| Bi-Weekly Lenses: Why People Like Them (Pros) | Bi-Weekly Lenses: What to Consider (Cons) |
|---|---|
The Middle Ground: They are a good balance between cost and convenience. They are less expensive than dailies but are replaced more often than monthlies. Durable: They are designed to last for two weeks of wear, so some people find them sturdier than daily lenses. | Cleaning is a Must: You must follow a strict cleaning routine every single night. Tracking: You need to remember to throw them out after 14 days. Many people use a calendar reminder to stay on track. |
Bi-weeklies might be for you if: You wear your contacts most days and are comfortable with a nightly cleaning routine to save on cost.
Monthly Lenses
Monthly lenses are worn every day for 30 days. Like bi-weeklies, they must be removed, cleaned, and stored in solution every night. At the end of the month, you throw them away.
| Monthly Lenses: Why People Like Them (Pros) | Monthly Lenses: What to Consider (Cons) |
|---|---|
Most Budget-Friendly: This is usually the most economical option, as one box of six lenses can last you for six months. Least Waste: You use only 12 pairs of lenses for the entire year, which means far less packaging. | Cleaning is Serious: Because you wear them for 30 days, cleaning them well is very important. Deposits like protein can build up over the month. Comfort: If you have dry or sensitive eyes, you may find that monthly lenses become less comfortable near the end of their 30-day cycle. |
Monthlies might be for you if: You are a full-time contact lens wearer, are diligent about cleaning, and want the most affordable choice.
How to Decide
Think about your daily life.
Are you busy or do you travel a lot? The “no-cleaning” aspect of dailies is a big advantage.
What is your budget? Monthlies are often the least expensive choice.
Do you have sensitive eyes? A fresh pair of dailies may be the most comfortable option.
Your optometrist is the best person to help you decide. They will examine your eyes and recommend a lens type and schedule that works for your specific vision and eye health needs.
Ready to browse? You can find a wide selection of daily, bi-weekly, and monthly contact lenses right here at VisionPros.
