How Do I Properly Clean and Care for My Contact Lenses?

Wearing contact lenses offers convenience and clarity, but they come with an important responsibility: proper care and hygiene. At DaVinci Eye Care, we emphasize the importance of maintaining clean lenses and practicing safe habits to protect your eyes from discomfort and infections.
 

Why Contact Lens Care and Maintenance is Important

Contact lenses rest directly on your eyes, making them highly sensitive to contamination. Without proper cleaning, your lenses can accumulate bacteria, protein deposits, and other debris. Poor hygiene can lead to eye infections, irritation, and even long-term vision damage. Practicing good lens care helps ensure your lenses remain safe, comfortable, and effective.
 

How to Properly Clean and Care for Contact Lenses

• Wash and Dry Hands Thoroughly: Before handling your lenses, wash your hands with soap and water, then dry them with a lint-free towel. This prevents the transfer of oils and bacteria to your lenses.
• Rub and Rinse Your Lenses: Even if you use a "no-rub" solution, it's still recommended to gently rub your lenses with your fingers and rinse them with a fresh contact lens solution. This step helps remove surface buildup and contaminants.
• Use Fresh Solution Every Time: Never reuse or top off old solution in your case. Always use fresh disinfecting solution each time you store your lenses. Avoid using tap water or saliva, which can contain harmful microorganisms.
• Clean and Replace Your Case: Your contact lens case should be rinsed with solution (never water), left open to air-dry, and replaced at least every three months.
• Follow the Prescribed Replacement Schedule: Whether your lenses are daily, bi-weekly, or monthly, follow your eye doctor’s instructions on when to replace them. Overwearing lenses increases your risk of complications.

Risks of Improper Contact Lens Care

Neglecting contact lens hygiene can result in:
 

• Eye infections such as microbial keratitis
• Redness, irritation, and blurred vision
• Corneal ulcers or abrasions
• Long-term damage to your vision

These risks underscore the importance of following proper care procedures every day.
 

Why You Need Regular Eye Exams

Even if your vision seems fine, annual contact lens exams are essential. These exams ensure that your lenses still fit properly, your prescription is up to date, and your eyes remain healthy. Your eye care provider can also check for early signs of complications that you might not notice.
 

Ensuring Clear and Healthy Vision

Proper contact lens care is not just about maintaining comfort - it’s about protecting your vision. Clean habits, consistent lens replacement, and regular eye exams all play a vital role in keeping your eyes healthy. We’re here to guide you through every step of safe lens wear.
 

Schedule your next contact lens exam with DaVinci Eye Care and keep your vision clear, safe, and healthy. Contact our office in Warminster, Pennsylvania, by calling (215) 443-8580 to book an appointment today.