Essential Tips for Cleaning and Storing Contact Lenses Effectively

Wearing contact lenses is a convenient and effective way to correct your vision, but proper hygiene is essential to keep your eyes healthy and free from infections. As eye care professionals, we frequently see patients suffer from avoidable complications simply because of poor contact lens care. This step-by-step guide will show you how to clean and store your contact lenses correctly, ensuring safe and comfortable wear every day.

Why Proper Lens Care Matters

Improper lens hygiene can lead to eye infections, corneal ulcers, dryness, and even long-term vision loss. Bacteria, protein deposits, and other contaminants can quickly build up on lenses, especially if they’re not cleaned and stored properly. Following a strict lens care routine helps maintain eye health and lens longevity.

Step-by-Step Guide to Clean & Store Contact Lenses

1. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly

Always wash your hands with soap and water before touching your contact lenses or eyes. Dry them with a lint-free towel to avoid transferring dirt or fibers to your lenses.

2. Use Fresh, Recommended Contact Lens Solution

Never use tap water, saliva, or expired solutions to clean your lenses. Only use the contact lens solution recommended by your eye care provider—usually a multipurpose disinfecting solution or hydrogen peroxide-based system.

3. Clean Lenses with the Rub-and-Rinse Method

Place one lens in your palm, add a few drops of the solution, and gently rub the lens with your fingertip for about 10–15 seconds. Then rinse the lens thoroughly with more solution before placing it in the case.

This method removes protein, debris, and microorganisms—rubbing is advised for deeper cleaning.

4. Use a Clean Contact Lens Case

Always store your lenses in a clean lens case filled with fresh solution. Never “top off” old solution. Replace your case every 1 to 3 months, as they can harbour bacteria over time.

5. Soak Lenses Properly

Let the lenses soak for the recommended duration—typically 4 to 8 hours—to ensure they are fully disinfected. Check your solution’s instructions and don’t shortcut this step, especially when using peroxide-based systems.

6. Avoid Sleeping in Lenses Unless Prescribed

Sleeping in lenses increases your risk of infection by 6 to 8 times unless you are using lenses specifically approved for overnight wear. Always follow your eye doctor’s advice regarding wearing schedules.

Extra Tips for Lens Safety

• Never reuse or share contact lenses.

• Keep water away from your lenses—including swimming, showering, or hot tubs.

• Follow your replacement schedule (daily, bi-weekly, monthly) as prescribed.

• Schedule regular eye exams to monitor eye health and lens fit.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Proper contact lens care doesn’t take much time, but it makes a big difference in protecting your vision and comfort. By cleaning, disinfecting, and storing your lenses the right way, you can avoid unnecessary risks and enjoy clear, healthy vision every day.

When in doubt, consult your optometrist or eye care specialist—we’re here to help you see your best and stay safe.

Protect your vision—clean your lenses the right way!