How to Store and Clean Your Contact Lenses (And What Not to Do)

Wearing contact lenses gives you crisp vision without the bulk of glasses, but they come with responsibility. Proper care is the key to keeping your eyes healthy, your lenses clear, and your vision sharp. Whether you're new to lenses or just need a refresher, this guide explains how to store and clean contact lenses correctly and the habits you should definitely avoid.

Why Proper Contact Lens Care Matters

It only takes one mistake in storage or cleaning to irritate your eyes or cause a serious infection. Bacteria, protein deposits, and even tap water can create big problems if they come into contact with your lenses. Poor hygiene can lead to redness, blurry vision, and in severe cases, eye infections that may require medical treatment.

Good contact lens care isn't complicated, but it does take consistency. If you have a hard time storing and cleaning your contact lenses according to their instructions, it may be a good idea to switch to daily disposable contact lenses to reduce your risk of irritation or infection.

How to Store Contact Lenses Safely

If you wear reusable contact lenses, storing them properly each night is essential. Here's how to store contact lenses the right way:

• Always use a clean lens case and fill it with fresh contact lens solution. Never reuse old solution.
• Place each lens in its correct compartment (marked L and R).
• Make sure the lenses are completely submerged to avoid drying out.
• Close the case tightly and keep it in a clean, dry location—not your bathroom sink or pocket.

Contact storage solution keeps lenses disinfected and hydrated between wears. Using anything else can introduce dangerous microorganisms to your eyes.

How to Clean Contact Lenses the Right Way

Cleaning your lenses each day helps remove buildup from natural oils, dust, and allergens. Here's how to clean contact lenses correctly:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and dry them with a lint-free towel.
2. Remove one lens and place it in the palm of your hand.
3. Apply a few drops of contact lens solution and gently rub the lens with your fingertip for about 20 seconds.
4. Rinse the lens with more solution to remove loosened debris.
5. Place the lens into your clean storage case with fresh solution.

Repeat the process with your other lens. Always use a solution that is recommended by your eye doctor. Never rinse or soak lenses with tap water or homemade mixtures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Caring for Contact Lenses

Even experienced lens wearers can slip into bad habits. Here are a few practices to avoid:

• Topping off solution instead of using a full replacement.
• Rinsing lenses with tap water or storing them in anything other than lens solution.
• Using expired cleaning products or skipping lens rub-and-rinse steps.
• Sleeping in lenses not approved for overnight wear.
• Touching lenses with dirty or wet hands.

Avoiding these common mistakes will significantly reduce your risk of discomfort or infection.

When to Replace Your Contact Lens Case and Cleaning Supplies

Your lens case isn't meant to last forever. Replace it at least every three months, sooner if it cracks, gets dirty, or begins to look worn.

As for cleaning solution, always check the expiration date and store the bottle tightly closed. Don't top off the old solution or transfer it to smaller containers. Fresh solution every time ensures your lenses stay safe and your eyes stay protected.

Daily Disposable vs. Reusable Contact Lenses: Care Differences

Daily contact lenses are a great option for people who prefer low-maintenance vision care. Since you throw them away after each use, there's no need for cleaning or storage. Just open a fresh pair every morning and toss them at night.

Reusable lenses—like monthlies or bi-weeklies—require a consistent cleaning and storage routine to stay safe and effective. If you prefer fewer steps, daily disposables might be a better choice.

Make Lens Care Simple with WebEyeCare

Taking care of your contact lenses doesn't have to be a hassle. With the right supplies and a few smart habits, you'll keep your lenses clean and your eyes feeling great. At WebEyeCare, you'll find top-quality contact lenses that can be delivered straight to your door.