Proper storage of contact lenses is a fundamental practice for maintaining long-term eye health and ensuring the comfort and effectiveness of the lenses themselves. Every time a lens is removed from the eye, it requires a specific routine of cleaning and disinfection before being placed in a secure, sterile environment. Failing to adhere to proper storage protocols can lead to the buildup of deposits and microorganisms, significantly increasing the risk of irritation and serious eye infections. This protective routine relies entirely on the quality and correct usage of specialized equipment and solutions.
Essential Storage Components
Two components are necessary for effective contact lens storage: the case and the solution.
Contact Lens Cases
Contact lens cases are typically designed with two distinct compartments, often marked “L” and “R,” to prevent the mix-up of lenses that may have different prescriptions. Most standard cases feature a screw-top design which creates a secure, leak-proof seal.
Storage Solutions
The choice of solution depends on the lens material and the user’s eye sensitivity. Multipurpose solutions (MPS) are popular for their convenience, as they are formulated to clean, rinse, disinfect, and store lenses from a single bottle. Hydrogen peroxide systems are often recommended for users with sensitive eyes or allergies because they are preservative-free and offer a deep, intensive clean. These systems require a specific case containing a neutralizing disc or catalyst to convert the peroxide into a safe saline solution over several hours. Using a non-expired solution that is specifically compatible with your lens type is non-negotiable for proper disinfection.
Step-by-Step Daily Storage Procedure
The daily storage process begins with meticulous hand hygiene, washing with soap and water and drying thoroughly with a lint-free towel before handling the lenses. After removing the first lens, place it in the clean, cupped palm of your hand and apply a few drops of fresh disinfecting solution. The lens must then be gently rubbed with the pad of the index finger for about 10 to 15 seconds to mechanically remove debris and protein deposits. This “rub and rinse” method is recommended even if the solution is marketed as “no-rub,” as studies show it enhances cleanliness and reduces infection risk. Following the rub, rinse the lens thoroughly with a steady stream of fresh solution to wash away the loosened residue. The cleaned lens is then placed into its designated compartment of the storage case, which has already been filled with enough fresh solution to fully submerge the lens. This procedure must be repeated for the second lens to ensure both are properly cleaned and stored in the correct chambers for disinfection overnight.
Maintaining Storage Hygiene
Maintaining a hygienic storage environment is just as important as the daily lens cleaning routine. After removing the lenses in the morning, the old solution must be immediately discarded, as it is no longer sterile and loses its disinfectant power. The empty case should then be rinsed with fresh solution—never tap water—and left open to air dry completely. Air-drying is an important step to minimize moisture, which is a favorable environment for microbial growth. It is crucial to never reuse or “top off” the old solution with new solution when storing lenses, as topping off significantly dilutes the disinfectant concentration. Furthermore, tap water, saliva, or homemade saline solutions must never be used to rinse or store lenses or the case, as they can contain harmful microorganisms like Acanthamoeba which pose a threat of severe eye infection. The contact lens case should be replaced at least every three months, even with proper daily cleaning, because micro-scratches and residue buildup can harbor bacteria over time.
Special Considerations for Extended Storage
If you anticipate not wearing your reusable lenses for an extended duration, such as a week or more, a slightly modified storage routine is necessary. For soft contact lenses stored in a multipurpose solution, the lenses can typically remain in the tightly sealed case for up to 30 consecutive days. However, this storage period is contingent upon the specific instructions of the solution manufacturer. If the lenses will be stored for longer than the solution’s recommended period, the solution must be refreshed every 30 days to maintain a sterile environment. This refreshing process requires removing the lenses, performing the standard rub and rinse with fresh solution, and placing them into a clean case filled with entirely new solution. Before wearing any lens that has been in extended storage, it is always necessary to re-clean and re-disinfect it with a fresh batch of solution overnight to ensure maximum safety.