Contact lenses provide a convenient and effective way to correct vision, but they are medical devices that require diligent daily care. Proper disinfection is necessary to avoid serious eye conditions, such as microbial keratitis, a vision-threatening infection of the cornea. Because soft contact lenses are the most commonly worn type, their porous nature requires meticulous cleaning to prevent the buildup of deposits and microorganisms and protect eye health.
Essential Supplies and Solution Types
The fundamental supplies for contact lens care are the lenses themselves, a designated storage case, and a fresh, approved disinfecting solution. The choice of solution is the first step in establishing a proper hygiene routine, with two primary categories available to soft lens wearers. Multipurpose solutions are the most common choice, offering an all-in-one formula that cleans, rinses, disinfects, and stores the lenses. These solutions contain chemical disinfectants that are effective for most wearers and are known for their user-friendly simplicity.
The alternative is a hydrogen peroxide system, which uses a 3% peroxide solution to provide a deeper, preservative-free clean. This system is recommended for individuals who experience sensitivities or allergies to the chemical components found in multipurpose solutions. Peroxide is caustic to the eye and requires a specialized case containing a neutralizing disk or catalyst. The lens must soak for the full required time for the hydrogen peroxide to convert into a harmless saline solution before the lens can be safely placed on the eye.
Step-by-Step Cleaning and Rinsing Procedure
Thorough hand hygiene is essential to prevent the transfer of oils, debris, and bacteria to the lens. Hands should be washed with a mild soap, avoiding oil-based or moisturizing varieties, and dried completely with a clean, lint-free towel. Remove the first lens and place it in the clean, dry palm of your hand, ensuring you consistently start with the same eye to avoid confusion.
Apply several drops of the approved contact lens solution to the lens surface. The mechanical action of rubbing is important, even when using solutions labeled as “no-rub” formulas. Gently rub the lens back and forth or in a circular motion on your palm with the pad of your fingertip. This physical scrubbing helps to loosen and remove the protein deposits and biofilms that chemical disinfectants alone may not fully eliminate.
After rubbing, rinse the lens thoroughly with a steady stream of fresh solution to wash away the dislodged debris and microorganisms. The lens is then placed into its corresponding compartment in the clean lens case, which has been filled with fresh disinfecting solution. It is imperative that the lens is fully submerged in the solution to ensure complete disinfection throughout the soaking period.
Maintenance of Storage Cases and Related Hygiene
The contact lens case is a frequent source of contamination and requires its own maintenance routine. After inserting your lenses in the morning, the old solution must be immediately discarded and never saved for later use. The empty case should then be rubbed clean with fresh contact lens solution and allowed to air-dry. To facilitate air-drying and reduce microbial growth, the case should be stored open and face-down on a clean tissue or surface.
This practice minimizes the risk of biofilm formation, a sticky layer of microorganisms that can be highly resistant to disinfection. It is medically recommended to replace the contact lens case entirely at least every three months, as biofilms can accumulate and become impossible to remove through routine cleaning over time.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
Exposing contact lenses or the case to tap water, saliva, or any non-sterile liquid is a common error. Tap water contains microorganisms and minerals that can cause devastating eye infections, most notably Acanthamoeba keratitis. This rare but serious infection is caused by an amoeba found in water sources and can lead to permanent vision loss.
Another mistake is “topping off” the solution. Used solution is no longer sterile and its disinfecting power is diminished, allowing any remaining pathogens to multiply. Always empty the case completely and refill it with fresh solution before storing the lenses. Wearers must strictly adhere to the eye care professional’s prescribed schedule for lens replacement, as wearing lenses beyond their recommended lifespan increases the risk of complications.