Taking care of your contact lenses is important for keeping your eyes healthy and your vision clear. Different lenses need different routines, so it helps to know exactly how to handle each type.
How to Care for Different Types of Contact Lenses
Daily Disposable Contact Lenses
Daily disposable lenses are the easiest to manage since they are worn once and thrown away.
- Start every morning with a new pair.
- Discard them before going to bed.
- Wash and dry your hands before touching your lenses.
- Never reuse or rinse daily lenses after wearing them.
- Replace any lens that comes into contact with an unclean surface.
These lenses don’t need cleaning or storage, but proper hand hygiene is still important to avoid irritation or infection.
Bi-Weekly Contact Lenses
Bi-weekly lenses are replaced every two weeks and require daily cleaning and proper storage.
- Wash your hands before touching your lenses.
- After removal, place each lens on your palm and apply cleaning solution.
- Rub gently to remove buildup or debris.
- Rinse with fresh solution and store in a clean case filled with new disinfecting liquid.
- Replace your lens case every few months and let it air dry between uses.
Keeping a consistent routine helps maintain comfort and keeps your lenses clear throughout the wear period.
Monthly Contact Lenses
Monthly lenses are made for longer wear and need regular cleaning to stay safe and comfortable.
- Remove your lenses before sleeping each night.
- Clean and rinse them with your doctor-approved solution.
- Always use new solution for storage, never top off the old one.
- Check for redness, dryness, or discomfort before reuse.
- Replace your lenses every 30 days, even if they still feel fine.
Proper cleaning helps monthly lenses stay fresh and allows your eyes to breathe better throughout the month.
Extended Wear Contact Lenses
Extended wear lenses can sometimes be worn overnight, but only under your doctor’s supervision.
- Clean your lenses whenever you remove them.
- Give your eyes a rest by going without lenses at least one night a week.
- Watch for signs of dryness or irritation, and remove your lenses if discomfort occurs.
- Follow your doctor’s schedule closely.
While extended wear lenses allow more oxygen to reach your eyes, sleeping in them increases the risk of infection, so they must be handled carefully.
General Contact Lens Care Tips
No matter which type of lens you wear, good hygiene makes a big difference.
- Use only the cleaning and disinfecting solutions your doctor recommends.
- Never rinse your lenses or case with tap water or saliva.
- Replace your lenses as directed.
- Schedule regular eye exams to keep your prescription and eye health up to date.
Why Proper Lens Care Matters
Good contact lens hygiene helps prevent irritation, redness, and infections. By cleaning, storing, and replacing your lenses correctly, you protect your vision and keep your eyes comfortable every day.
FAQs About Contact Lens Care
1. Can I shower or swim while wearing contact lenses?
It’s best to avoid it. Water, including tap and pool water, can contain microorganisms that cause eye infections. Always remove your lenses before swimming or showering.
2. How often should I change my contact lens solution?
Always use fresh solution every time you store your lenses. Never reuse or top off old solution, as it loses its disinfecting ability over time.
3. Can I sleep in contact lenses?
Only if your lenses are approved for extended wear and your doctor has advised it. Sleeping in regular contact lenses increases the risk of dryness and infection.
4. What should I do if my eyes feel irritated after wearing lenses?
Remove your lenses right away and check for damage or dirt. If irritation continues, contact your eye doctor before wearing them again.
5. How often should I replace my contact lens case?
Replace your lens case every three months or sooner if it looks dirty or cracked. A clean case prevents bacteria buildup and keeps your lenses safe.
