One patient came into Five Points Eye Care in Athens with red, irritated eyes and a puzzled expression—they’d been wearing contact lenses for years and never had a problem before. After a quick conversation, it turned out they had recently started rinsing their lenses with tap water. That small change led to big consequences. Contact lens hygiene might seem simple, but even tiny mistakes can lead to serious eye infections, discomfort, or blurry vision.
So, are you cleaning your contact lenses the right way? Let’s walk through the essential do’s and don’ts to make sure your eyes stay healthy and your lenses work their best.
Why Proper Contact Lens Hygiene Matters
Your contact lenses rest directly on your eyes for hours at a time. That means any germs, protein buildup, or residue on your lenses come into contact with the sensitive surface of your eyes. If they’re not properly cleaned, this can lead to:
- Eye infections (like microbial keratitis)
- Inflammation and redness
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Long-term eye damage if untreated
Think of your eyes like a camera lens—if it’s smudged or dirty, the image is distorted. And unlike a camera, your eyes can get infected. Good hygiene is your defense.
The Right Way to Clean Your Contact Lenses
Follow these steps daily to reduce your risk of infection and improve comfort:
1. Wash Your Hands First
Always wash with soap and water, then dry with a clean, lint-free towel before handling lenses.
2. Use Fresh Solution
Only use the disinfecting solution recommended by your doctor. Never top off old solution—it loses its disinfecting power.
3. Rub and Rinse (Even With “No-Rub” Solution)
Gently rub each lens in the palm of your hand with solution for 10–15 seconds. Then rinse with more fresh solution to remove debris.
4. Clean Your Case Too
Rinse your lens case with solution (not water) daily and let it air-dry upside down. Replace your case every 1–3 months.
5. Stick to the Schedule
Don’t stretch out the life of your lenses. Daily lenses are for one-time use only. Monthly or biweekly lenses should be replaced on schedule—even if they still feel fine.
What Not to Do with Your Contacts
Even small missteps can invite bacteria and cause irritation. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Sleeping in lenses not designed for overnight wear
- Rinsing lenses or cases with tap water or saliva
- Showering or swimming with lenses in
- Using expired contact lens solution
- Storing lenses in anything other than disinfecting solution
If any of those sound familiar, it’s time to reassess your routine.
When to Call Your Eye Doctor in Athens, GA
Call Five Points Eye Care right away if you notice:
- Eye redness or discharge
- Persistent dryness or burning
- Light sensitivity or blurred vision
- Pain when inserting or removing lenses
It’s always better to catch a problem early than to risk a serious infection.
Keep Your Eyes Safe at Five Points Eye Care
Not all lens habits are created equal. If you're unsure about your cleaning routine or experiencing any discomfort, schedule a contact lens check-up with Five Points Eye Care in Athens. Our team can ensure you're using the safest and most effective care practices for your eyes.