Contact Lens Hygiene: Best Practices for Keeping Your Eyes Safe and Healthy 

Jun 1, 2023 | Eye Health Info

Wearing contact lenses is a great way to enjoy clear vision without the hassle of glasses. However, if you don’t take proper care of your contact lenses and eyes, you may be putting yourself at risk for infections, allergies, or even more serious eye conditions. Here are some best practices to keep your eyes safe and healthy while wearing contact lenses: 

Wash your hands 

Always wash your hands before handling your contact lenses. Your hands are a breeding ground for bacteria, and failing to wash them before inserting and removing your lenses can lead to eye infections. Before handling your contact lenses, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water and then dry them with a clean towel. 

Use fresh solution 

If you’re not wearing a daily disposable contact lens, always use fresh contact lens solution every time you clean or store your lenses. Old contact solution can be contaminated with harmful bacteria or debris, which can lead to eye infections and other complications. 

Clean your lenses properly  

Follow your eye doctor’s instructions on how to clean your lenses properly. A good cleaning routine can help remove dirt and bacteria that may accumulate on your lenses and cause infections. 

Your doctor may recommend using a gentle solution to rub your lenses and then rinsing them thoroughly. This helps remove any debris that may be clinging to the surface of the lenses. By following this routine regularly, you can help ensure that your lenses stay fresh, clean, and free of harmful bacteria. 

Replace your lenses regularly 

It’s important to keep up with your contact lens replacement schedule as recommended by your eye doctor, even if your lenses look okay. As time goes by, contact lenses can accumulate bacteria and other debris that aren’t visible to the naked eye. This can increase the risk of eye infections, which can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. By following your doctor’s recommended replacement schedule, you can help ensure that your lenses stay fresh and clean, and your eyes stay healthy. 

Avoid sleeping in or showering with your contacts 

It’s never safe to wear contact lenses while sleeping or showering as both activities increase your risk of infection. While you sleep, your lenses can dry out or stick to your eyes, which can lead to significant discomfort or infection. Also, water from the shower or swimming can introduce harmful bacteria to your eyes, which can cause severe infections. 

Don’t share lenses 

Each person’s eyes are unique and require specific lenses that fit their eyes and prescription. Sharing lenses can introduce bacteria, debris, and other harmful particles that can cause infections and damage your eyes. 

Schedule regular eye exams 

Regular eye exams are essential to maintaining healthy eyes when you wear contact lenses. During an eye exam, your eye doctor can detect eye problems or infections that could lead to more severe eye issues. Regular eye exams allow your eye doctor to monitor your eye health and help you to continue to enjoy your contact lenses safely. 

Our eye doctors in Watertown want you to enjoy the freedom and clarity that contact lenses can provide, without any discomfort or complications. If you ever experience any changes in vision or discomfort while wearing your contact lenses, contact our office to schedule an eye exam.