Contact lenses give people an easy, effective way to correct their vision without worrying about bulky eyeglasses. However, contact lens care is crucial for your eye health, especially if you plan to wear lenses frequently. Here are a few critical do’s and don’ts to help you keep them clean.

Do:

Wash your hands.

Your hands pick up many microscopic contaminants every day, ranging from germs and microbes to viruses and visible grime. Larger particulates, like dirt, can scratch your eyes and increase the risk of infection. On the other hand, smaller contaminants can cause communicable eye diseases, such as conjunctivitis or pink eye. To prevent these issues, wash your hands carefully before handling contact lenses.

Rub your lenses during cleaning.

This habit is more effective at removing dirt and grime than simply rinsing your lenses, even if you’re using a no-rub solution. During cleaning, place a few drops of daily contact solution in the lens and rub it between your palm and finger for about twenty seconds.

Don’t:

Wet lenses with alternative liquids.

When your lenses become dry, it can be tempting to wet them with anything, even saliva or tap water. However, your mouth is filled with germs that can contaminate your lenses, and tap water also contains tiny microbes that don’t belong in the eye. Never wet lenses with anything other than contact solution or eye drops.

Use damaged cases.

Your lens case can become old, dirty, and damaged from frequent use and everyday wear. Unfortunately, if you continue to use a damaged contact lens case, bacteria can access your lenses through built-up dirt or cracks in the plastic. To keep everything clean, replace your case about once every three months.

If you have more questions about how to keep your contact lenses clean, turn to Edwin Y. Endo, OD & Associates in Aiea, HI. Dr. Endo and his team will equip you with tips to help you maintain lens cleanliness. They can also refill your supply with lenses from leading brands, like Acuvue® and Johnson & Johnson®. View their services online, or call (808) 487-5500 to schedule an appointment.