How to Clean and Store Your Contact Lenses Properly

Proper contact lens care is essential for both comfort and eye health. Whether you wear daily disposables like the Molak 1-Day Brown Bunny (10pk) or monthly colored contacts like the EyeCandys Desire Innocent White Grey, knowing how to clean and store your lenses can prevent infections and extend their lifespan. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps for cleaning, storing, and maintaining your contact lenses.

Many people overlook the importance of correct lens hygiene, especially when they're new to colored contacts. But with a few simple habits, you can keep your eyes healthy and your lenses clear. From choosing the right solution to replacing your case regularly, we've got you covered.

Why Proper Contact Lens Care Matters

Your eyes are delicate, and contact lenses sit directly on the cornea, making hygiene crucial. Poor cleaning habits can lead to protein buildup, which clouds the lens and reduces comfort. More seriously, improper storage can allow bacteria and fungi to thrive, increasing the risk of eye infections like keratitis.

For colored contacts, extra care is needed because the tint can trap deposits more easily. Lenses like the i-Sha Dekame Look At Me Sand Brown or the EyeCandys Cosplay 002 Red Fireball are popular for cosmetic use, but they still require the same rigorous cleaning as any other lens. By following a consistent routine, you ensure that your lenses remain safe and comfortable for every wear.

• Always wash your hands before handling lenses.
• Never use water or saliva to wet or clean lenses.
• Replace your contact lens case every three months.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Contact Lenses

Start by washing your hands with mild soap and drying them with a lint-free towel. Remove the lens from your eye and place it in the palm of your hand. Apply a few drops of fresh contact lens solution to the lens and gently rub it with your index finger for about 20 seconds. This rubbing action removes debris and protein deposits that can accumulate on the lens surface.

After rubbing, rinse the lens thoroughly with more solution to wash away loosened debris. Then, place the lens in a clean case filled with fresh solution. Make sure the lens is fully submerged and that you use the correct side up to avoid damaging it. Repeat the process for the other lens.

For colored contacts, such as the Gemhour Khione 1-Day Olive (10pk) or the NEO Vision Neoism Pure Beige (50pk), you may notice that the tint fades over time if not cleaned properly. Regular cleaning helps maintain the vibrant color and clarity of the lens.

• Never reuse solution; always use fresh solution each time.
• Don't top off the solution in your case; replace it entirely.
• If your lenses feel dry or uncomfortable, clean them again.

Best Practices for Storing Your Contact Lenses

Storing your lenses correctly is just as important as cleaning them. Always use a clean, dry contact lens case that is specifically designed for lens storage. After placing your lenses in the case, fill it with fresh solution and close the lid tightly. Store the case in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity.

If you wear lenses occasionally, like the Innovision FX Solid Yellow or the Ballet Slippers Press-On Nails (for a fun look), you may need to store them for longer periods. In such cases, replace the solution every few days to keep the lenses hydrated and sterile. Never store lenses in saline solution alone, as it lacks disinfecting properties.

For daily disposables like the Molak 1-Day Brown Bunny (10pk), you don't need to worry about long-term storage, but you should still keep the blister packs in a cool, dry place until you're ready to use them.

• Always close the case tightly to prevent solution evaporation.
• Keep your case clean by rinsing it with solution and air-drying it after each use.
• Never store lenses in water or any non-sterile solution.

Caring for Your Contact Lens Case

Your contact lens case can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not maintained. After inserting your lenses, empty the case, rinse it with fresh solution, and leave it open to air dry. Do not use water to rinse your case, as tap water contains microorganisms that can cause infections.

Replace your case every three months, or immediately if it becomes cracked, cloudy, or damaged. A clean case is essential for preventing contamination. Some cases, like the Cotton Candy Contact Lens Case offered by EyeCandys, are stylish but still require the same care as any other case.

By keeping your case clean, you ensure that your lenses stay sterile and comfortable every time you wear them.

• Never store your case in a bathroom where humidity and bacteria are high.
• Pack a spare case when traveling to avoid using a dirty one.
• Label your case with the date you started using it to track replacement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most common mistakes is using the same solution for cleaning and storing without replacing it. Another is wearing lenses longer than recommended, which can reduce oxygen flow to the cornea and cause discomfort. For colored contacts, wearing them while sleeping is especially risky, as it increases the chance of infection.

Avoid using homemade solutions or water to clean your lenses. Always use a sterile contact lens solution that is appropriate for your lens type. If you experience redness, pain, or blurred vision, remove your lenses immediately and consult an eye care professional.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can enjoy your lenses safely and comfortably for their entire lifespan.

• Never sleep in lenses unless they are specifically approved for overnight wear.
• Don't swim or shower while wearing lenses.
• Don't ignore discomfort; it may indicate a problem.

Proper contact lens care is not difficult, but it requires consistency. By following the steps outlined above, you can keep your lenses clean, your eyes healthy, and your vision clear. Whether you're using daily disposables or monthly colored contacts, make hygiene a priority. And remember, if you ever have any doubts, always consult with your eye care provider.