How to Effectively Clean Contact Lenses

Contact lenses offer a convenient and effective way to correct vision, providing freedom from glasses and enhancing your overall visual experience. However, to ensure the longevity of your contact lenses and protect your eye health, it’s crucial to adopt proper cleaning and maintenance routines. Here, we’ve provided some essential tips on how to effectively clean contact lenses, promoting optimal eye hygiene and comfort. Keep reading to learn more, or visit one of our eye clinics in Orlando, Florida, for further instruction and assistance on caring for your contacts.

Wash Your Hands Thoroughly

Before touching your contact lenses, always start by washing your hands with mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water. This step is essential to remove dirt, oils, and germs that can transfer to your lenses, potentially causing irritation and infections.

Lens Cleaning Solutions

Using a proper lens cleaning solution is paramount to maintaining your contact lenses’ cleanliness and clarity. Opt for a solution recommended by your eye care professional, as not all solutions are suitable for all types of lenses. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and never use tap water, saliva, or any other substitutes, as they can introduce harmful microorganisms to your lenses.

Rubbing and Rinsing

After removing your lenses from their case, place one lens on your palm and apply a few drops of the cleaning solution. Gently rub the lens with your fingertip in a circular motion for about 20 seconds to remove any debris or protein buildup. Rinse the lens thoroughly with the solution to remove any loosened particles.

Storing Contact Lenses

Store your contact lenses in a clean and dry case specifically designed for this purpose. Ensure the case is replaced regularly, approximately every three months, to prevent the accumulation of bacteria. Fill the case with fresh solution and place the lenses carefully, making sure they are fully submerged. Do not reuse solution for multiple days in a row. Avoid using saline solution or water as a storage medium, as they do not provide adequate disinfection.

Clean Your Contact Lens Case

To maintain optimal cleanliness, it is important to clean your contact lens case regularly. After removing your lenses, rinse the case with fresh solution and let it air dry upside down on a clean tissue or cloth. Additionally, replace the case every three months or as recommended by your eye care professional.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

To ensure proper contact lens care, it is essential to avoid common pitfalls. Never reuse solution or top it up, as this can compromise the disinfecting properties and increase the risk of contamination. Avoid wearing contact lenses while swimming or exposing them to water, as it can introduce harmful bacteria and potentially cause severe eye infections. It’s also crucial to adhere to the recommended replacement schedule for your specific type of lenses.

By following these essential tips for effective contact lens cleaning, you can maintain healthy eyes and enjoy clear vision without compromising your eye health. Remember, proper contact lens care is vital for preventing eye infections and ensuring optimal comfort and vision. If you have any further questions or need guidance on contact lens care, we encourage you to contact Bay Hill Eye Care. Our experienced eye doctors are here to provide expert advice and conduct comprehensive eye exams to keep your eyes healthy and your vision sharp.

To schedule an eye exam or receive further guidance on proper contact lens care from our eye doctor in Orlando, contact Bay Hill Eye Care today, and take the first step towards healthier eyes and clearer vision.