Contact lenses are a popular choice for vision correction, providing a convenient and comfortable alternative to glasses.

However, to keep your eyes healthy and avoid eye infections, it is essential to practice good maintenance habits with your contact lenses. In this article, we will discuss ten essential maintenance practices for your contact lenses that you should follow.

1. Wash Your Hands

Before handling your contact lenses, it is crucial to wash your hands thoroughly with mild soap and water. This practice ensures that your lenses remain free from dirt, germs, and oily substances that can cause discomfort and infections.

2. Replace Your Lens Case Regularly

Your contact lens case can accumulate bacteria and other microorganisms over time. To prevent contamination, it is important to replace your lens case every three months or as recommended by your eye care professional.

Regularly cleaning your case with a lens solution and letting it air dry is also necessary.

3. Use Proper Cleaning Solutions

Always use the lens solutions recommended by your eye care professional. Avoid using tap water, saline, or homemade solutions, as they may contain harmful bacteria and do not effectively disinfect your lenses.

4. Clean and Rinse Your Lenses

Every time you remove your contact lenses, clean and rinse them with the recommended solution. Rub each lens gently to remove any debris or protein deposits. This practice ensures that your lenses remain clear and comfortable to wear.

5. Store Your Lenses Properly

When you are not wearing your contact lenses, store them in a clean and dry lens case. Fill the case with fresh solution and ensure that the lenses are fully submerged. Avoid reusing old solution, as it may lose its disinfecting properties.

6. Avoid Sleeping with Your Lenses

Sleeping with your contact lenses increases the risk of eye infections and corneal ulcers. It restricts oxygen flow to the eyes and can lead to discomfort and dryness.

Always remove your lenses before going to bed, unless specifically approved by your eye care professional.

7. Follow Replacement Schedule

Whether you wear daily disposable lenses or extended wear lenses, it is essential to follow the recommended replacement schedule. Overusing your lenses can damage your eyes and increase the risk of infections. Never wear expired contact lenses.

8. Avoid Water Contact

Avoid exposing your contact lenses to water, including swimming pools, hot tubs, and showers. Water may contain bacteria and other harmful microorganisms that can adhere to your lenses and cause eye infections.

Sharing contact lenses with others is not only unhygienic but also increases the risk of spreading eye infections. Always use your own lenses and never borrow or lend them to anyone.

10. Attend Regular Eye Examinations

Regular eye examinations are crucial to maintaining good eye health and ensuring that your contact lenses are working appropriately. Your eye care professional will assess your visual acuity, lens fit, and overall eye health during these examinations.

Conclusion

By following these essential maintenance practices, you can enjoy clear and comfortable vision while minimizing the risk of eye infections and complications associated with contact lens wear.

Remember to consult your eye care professional if you experience any discomfort, redness, or other concerns with your contact lenses.