Contact lenses are most often used to correct vision and are frequently used as a replacement for glasses. These lenses fit over the cornea of the eye and are designed either for long-term or short-term use. They may be labeled as "hard" or "soft" depending on the material of which the are composed. Proper care of all types of contact lenses including safe storage and cleaning is essential in extending durability, making wear comfortable and preventing possible eye problems.
Step 1
Follow your ophthalmologist's or optometrist's instructions regarding how long you may wear your lenses before discarding them. There are several types of lenses including daily wear and extended wear. The EyeSmart website recommends you heed the advice of your eye care professional as to which contact lenses will work best for you.
Step 2
Wash your hands for 30 seconds with warm water and antibacterial soap. Dry hands completely with a lint-free cloth before handling contact lenses. By always assuring your lenses are not exposed to oils on your fingers or water you help ensure your lenses will not become contaminated with germs.
Step 3
Practice delicate removal of your lenses so that your contacts lenses do not rip or become damaged in any way. Use the fingers of one hand to hold your eyes wide open by grasping your lashes. Gently squeeze your contact between your thumb and forefinger to break the suction of the contact from your eye and remove the lens.
Step 4
Rinse the removed lens with the appropriate product. Store it in a case containing disinfecting storage solution. You should house your lenses cases in an area where the temperature remains moderate. Clean your storage cases once a week with antibacterial soap and warm water. Allow for thorough drying before adding fresh disinfecting solution.
Step 5
Repeat removal, rinse and storage with your other lens. Always wash and rinse lenses after wearing. Do not remove your contacts while working over an open sink drain as you could easily lose them. Clean and rinse your lenses a second time if you do drop them before putting them in the case.
Step 6
Rinse your lenses thoroughly before putting them on the next time you wear them. Make sure your hands are freshly washed before handling your contact lenses. Remember that how you put on your contacts is an essential part of proper caring for them.
Step 7
Place the first lens on the tip of your forefinger while holding your eye wide open with the fingers on your other hand. Gently position the lens onto your eye. Blink several times to help the lens stay in place.
Step 8
Repeat the rinsing with your other lens. Again, use a delicate hand to place the contact lens on your other eye and blink a few times to help with positioning.
Step 9
Consult your eye doctor immediately if you develop any irritation, itchiness or pain while wearing contacts or following their removal, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Tips and Warnings
- Replace your storage case every six months. Take a few months off from wearing contact lenses once a year to give your eyes a break from constant wear. Spring may be the ideal season for you to discontinue use if you are a seasonal allergy sufferer.
- Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines when using commercial lens cleaners, rinses and drops. According to the Food and Drug Administration, you should only use eye cosmetics that are labeled safe for contact lens wearers.
Things You'll Need
- Antibacterial soap
- Lint-free cloth
- Contact lens cleaner
- Contact lens rinse
- Contact lens storage solution
- Contact lens storage case
