From enhanced peripheral vision to the ability to play team sports, contact lenses offer a number of benefits to those who need or wear glasses. However, since they must be placed directly against the eye, there’s always the risk of introducing germs and bacteria into the body. To avoid infections, it’s crucial to care for your contact lenses and clean them regularly. Use the following guidelines to improve your lens care routine.

3 Tips to Properly Care for Your Contact Lenses

1. Handling

Since it’s easiest to spread germs with your hands, you’ll need to wash them for at least 20 seconds before touching your contact lenses. Also, make sure to rinse off all of the soap and dry your hands with a clean towel. If you have long or jagged fingernails, cut and file them prior to washing. Then, pick up your lenses with the soft pads of your fingers to avoid puncturing or scratching them.

2. Cleaning

If you’re reusing the same pair of contact lenses, it’s crucial to disinfect them with the solution recommended by your optometrist. If you’re out of the solution, wear glasses until you can replenish the supply—mixing solutions or using one that isn’t designed for your specific lenses could damage them, or cause eye pain. Never use tap water to lubricate your lenses, as this may contain various minerals that could damage the lenses and infect your eyes.

3. Storage

To preserve your reusable lenses, storage is equally important. To avoid confusing the left and right lenses, pick one side to handle first every time. After cleaning it thoroughly, place it into its respective slot in the plastic storage case recommended by your optometrist.

Then, remove, clean, and store the second lens. Taking both out at the same time can increase the risk of contamination. Make sure to insert a little extra solution into the container if necessary, and seal it tight to prevent germs and bacteria from entering.

If you have more questions about how to take care of your contact lenses, turn to Alan L Ginsburg OD of High Point, NC. For nearly four decades, this eye doctor has been performing routine exams, treating diseases, and prescribing lenses. Whether you’re interested in switching from glasses to contacts or have been experiencing eye strain symptoms, you can schedule an appointment by calling (336) 889-6566. To learn more about Dr. Ginsburg’s services, visit the website.