If you wear contact lenses, you must take them out on a regular basis to clean them and keep your eyes healthy. However, the amount of time you leave these devices in can vary based on the type of product you use. To help you protect your eyes and enjoy more comfortable eyesight, the professionals at Staarmann Family Vision Center in Fairfield, OH, share a few helpful guidelines for when to take contact lenses out.

How to Properly Care for Your Contacts

Extended Wear Lenses

Extended wear contact lenses can be left in while you sleep and worn comfortably the next day. Depending on the brand you use, they can be left in for up to 30 days. However, this isn’t always encouraged. If you experience cloudy vision or dry eyes, remove the lenses and clean them. This will help prevent an infection and give your eyes a chance to breathe.

Conventional Daily Wear Lenses

Conventional contacts, such as rigid permeable gas lenses, can be reused day after day. While these products can last anywhere from six months to over a year, they still need to be removed daily for proper cleaning. In general, they can be worn comfortably for up to 16 hours before they should be taken out and cleaned. Additionally, you should never sleep in them.

Disposable Lenses

Like conventional lenses, daily disposable contacts should be removed every day either before bedtime or whenever your eyes become uncomfortable. However, these contacts are different in that you don’t have to clean them. Instead, simply discard the lenses and put in a fresh pair the next day.

If you have questions about wearing and caring for contacts, turn to the team at Staarmann Family Vision Center in Fairfield, OH. These experts offer exceptional care to patients of all ages, and they will introduce you to a variety of contact lens products that fit your lifestyle, preferences, and budget. Visit them online to learn more about their services, and call (513) 874-1718 to schedule an appointment today.