If you’re new to wearing contact lenses, proper hygiene practices are essential for preventing discomfort and infections. When it comes to handling, storage, and safety, there are several tips eye doctors want you to keep in mind. Follow the strategies below every time you care for your contacts so you can enjoy clear vision and excellent eye health. 

How to Take Care of Your Contact Lenses

1. Wash & Dry Your Hands Before Handling 

Always wash your hands well before handling your contact lenses. After you use a mild, scent-free soap, rinse your skin thoroughly. Dry off with a paper towel or microfiber rag to avoid exposing your lenses to dust and lint. 

2. Use the Right Contact Solution 

Ask your eye doctor about the type of solution that is best for cleaning your contact lenses. Apply the same brand of solution each time. Never use saliva or saline drops. If you’re worried about always having enough at home, consider enrolling in an automatic delivery service.

3. Store Your Lenses Properly 

Use the lens case provided by your optometrist. If you’re not wearing your contacts, keep them in the case at all times. To help prevent eye infections, rinse your case every day after putting your contact lenses into your eyes and replace the case every 3 months. 

4. Follow Your Lens Replacement Schedule 

Once you receive your contact lenses, be sure you understand the replacement schedule. Some lenses need to be switched out daily, while others can be taken out and worn again for several weeks. Order a new box ahead of time so you won’t have to reuse old or dirty contacts. If you have trouble keeping up with the replacement plan, talk to your doctor about a different product. 

5. Keep Your Eye Doctor Appointments 

Don’t skip your eye exams. They are important in ensuring that you’re responding well to your contact lenses and that you are not developing any problems often associated with contact lenses wear.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions about your lenses at your visit. Some patients may be interested in the benefits of daily use or overnight products, while others are curious about how to handle their contact lenses while traveling or swimming. Your eye doctor can share any care tips and recommend contact lenses that best suit your lifestyle.

If you need a skilled and trusted professional to help manage your eye care, turn to optometrist Alan L. Ginsburg OD in Guilford County, NC. The eye doctor has more than 40 years of experience providing family eye care to patients of all ages. To make an appointment with the doctor and inquire about contact lenses, call (336) 889-6566. For more information about services, including glaucoma testing and cataracts evaluations, visit the practice online.