Colored contact lenses offer a simple way to change your appearance, whether they are purely cosmetic or include a vision-correcting prescription. Like all soft contact lenses, they are directly exposed to the delicate environment of the eye, making proper storage an absolute necessity for health and comfort. A dedicated routine prevents the introduction of harmful microorganisms, which can lead to serious eye complications, and ensures the longevity of the lens material. Understanding the correct storage procedures is integral to safely enjoying the aesthetic benefits of colored lenses.
Daily Cleaning and Preparation for Storage
The physical cleaning process must happen every time the lenses are removed from the eyes. Begin by washing your hands thoroughly with a non-fragranced soap, rinsing well, and drying them completely with a lint-free towel. This prevents transferring residues or particles to the lens surface. After removal, place the lens in the palm of your hand and apply several drops of fresh disinfecting solution.
Use the pad of your clean fingertip to gently rub the lens in a circular motion for about 15 to 20 seconds, cleaning both sides. This “rub and rinse” technique physically dislodges protein deposits, cosmetic residue, and debris, even when using a solution labeled as “no-rub.” After rubbing, rinse the lens again with a steady stream of fresh solution to wash away the loosened contaminants. This meticulous daily preparation is the most effective step in reducing the bio-burden before overnight disinfection.
Choosing the Right Solution and Case
The solution used for cleaning and storage must be specifically formulated for soft contact lenses and used only once before being discarded. Multipurpose solutions are convenient, allowing the same product to clean, rinse, disinfect, and store the lenses. For a more intensive clean, a hydrogen peroxide system can be used, which is particularly beneficial for those with sensitivities since it is preservative-free.
A hydrogen peroxide system uses a 3% peroxide solution that provides deep disinfection by breaking up microbial biofilms. This system requires a specialized case with a neutralizing disk, which chemically converts the peroxide into a safe saline solution over several hours before the lens can be worn. Never “top off” old solution with new solution, as this dilutes the disinfectant and allows bacteria to thrive. The lens case itself must also be maintained by rinsing it with fresh solution and allowing it to air dry face down after each use, and should be replaced entirely every one to three months.
Guidelines for Extended Storage
If you wear colored contacts intermittently, such as weekly or monthly, they must be managed differently than those worn daily. Lenses stored in a multipurpose solution for long periods require periodic re-disinfection to maintain sterility. For most multipurpose solutions, the lenses should be taken out, re-cleaned, and placed in fresh solution at least once per week, or according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Hydrogen peroxide systems often have shorter long-term storage limits, sometimes requiring re-disinfection as frequently as every seven days. If the lenses have been soaking for 30 days or longer without a solution change, they must be cleaned and disinfected according to the full overnight procedure before being worn again. Always check the solution’s packaging for the maximum recommended storage time to ensure the lenses remain sterile and hydrated.
Recognizing and Preventing Contamination
The most severe contamination risks come from using improper liquids for cleaning or storage, which can introduce dangerous microbes. Never use tap water, distilled water, or homemade saline solutions, as these are not sterile and can carry microorganisms like Acanthamoeba, which can cause severe eye infection. Even saliva is non-sterile and must be avoided for wetting lenses.
Lenses or solution past their expiration date should be immediately discarded, as the disinfecting agents may no longer be effective. Signs that your lenses or case are contaminated include a cloudy appearance of the solution, an unusual odor, or visible debris that does not rinse away. If you experience symptoms like unusual eye redness, persistent pain, or excessive discharge, remove the lenses and consult an eye care professional immediately, as these are signs of a possible infection.