How to Keep Your Contact Lenses Safe and Clean

Summary: Protecting your contact lenses should always be a priority. Poor cleaning practices could leave you with a potential infection.

When you first purchase contact lenses, your optometrist should emphasize good hygiene practices and cleaning techniques. This involves using a multitude of solutions and washing your hands before every use. Because these lenses are considered medical devices and sit flush in your eye, you should always treat them with care and follow your eye doctor’s instructions.

Never Use Tap Water to Clean Your Contacts

Tap water should never be substituted for contact cleaning solution. Because tap water contains bacteria and particles that could potentially cause an infection, you should only clean your contacts with a recommended solution that is designed specifically for contact lenses.

Because these contact solutions are precision engineered for your contact lenses, like the Dailies Total1 for example, you should always be wary of what you’re using so you can maximize the shelf life of your contacts and get maximum comfort whenever you use it.

Regularly Clean Your Contact Lens Case

Another home to bacteria and grime is the inside of your contact lens case. Many people tend to forget to clean their lens case, causing a buildup of dust and particles that can cause an infection to your eyes. And, if you’re leaving them in their case overnight, they’re swimming around in all the bacteria buildup, increasing the changes that you’ll contract something.

If you’re unsure about your daily routine, it’s important to contact your optometrist to discuss what you need to do to keep your eyes safe from harm. Remember, different contact lens types that you purchase from Lens.com for example, require different cleaning techniques and maintenance. Certain solutions that you would normally use on your hard lenses should not be used on your soft lenses.