How can you make sure your contact lenses are clean and free of bacteria? When it comes to contact lens hygiene, there are a few key things you need to know.  First and foremost, always use a clean contact lens case and lens when you’re not wearing them. Make sure to store your lenses in a dry, cool place. There are multiple types of solutions you can use. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to choose one that is right for you. Cleaning contact lenses regularly with the right solutions will keep them safe and help you enjoy wearing them for longer. Each of these solutions plays a unique role in cleaning your lenses, so it's important to understand the differences between each one. 

Hydrogen peroxide

One of which is hydrogen peroxide. Oxysept and Aosept are some of the common brands you may find in store. They provide a one step solution to cleaning your contact lens. Keeping the system simple makes it ideal for many. However, the solution is extremely strong and must not be administered to the eye directly, it is extremely important to use it as recommended by your optometrist. Before using any of these solutions, it is important to read and follow the instructions provided with them. 

Multipurpose solution

Another option is a multipurpose solution. The multipurpose solution is the most common type of solution used to clean contact lenses. Breaking down protein deposits that build up on contact lenses, making them easier to clean and less likely to harbor bacteria. This could be used in multiple steps of the cleaning routine, rubbing rinsing and soaking all of which are essential in maintaining the hygiene of your contact lens.

Saline solution

Saline solution are mainly made for rinsing your contact lenses. It does not have any disinfecting properties and should never be used for cleaning and soaking the lens. It should not be the only solution used in your contact lens cleaning routine, but used alongside of other cleaning solutions such as cleaners or a multipurpose solution. Rinsing the lenses helps to wash off the debris that may have built up or any residual solution left on the lens after cleaning. 

What Are the Main Causes of Contact Lens Irritation?

When it comes to contact lenses, irritation is one of the biggest issues that people face. Irritation can come in many shapes and forms, ranging from dry eyes to blurry vision. The most common causes of contact lens irritation are dryness and hygiene.

Dry eyes are the most common cause of contact lens irritation. When the eye is dry, it can cause the surface of the lens to become rough. This can lead to inflammation and irritation, which is why it is important to make sure your eyes are well hydrated when you are wearing contacts.

Another common reason for contact lenses becoming irritated is due to a lack of hygiene. Not properly cleaning your lenses after wearing them or storing them in a dirty environment can lead to bacteria building up and causing irritation. The debris and protein deposits from the eye would rub on the cornea causing discomfort when wearing the lens and greater lens awareness.

How to care for you contact lenses?

Before wearing any lenses, ensure that your hands are washed with soap and dried on a lint free towel. If you plan to wear any eye makeup, insert the lenses before applying them on. Throughout the day, apply an eyedrop designed for contact lenses to relief any dryness. Hydrelo and Cationorm are some examples that are available for purchase on our website.

When removing them at night, rinse and rub the lens with a multipurpose solution and soak them in a case that keeps them clean and dust-free with the same solution. Make sure that you don't wear them for long periods of time without cleaning them first. If you wear daily disposable lenses, throw the lenses away as soon as you take them out and replace them with a fresh pair the next time. 

Cleaning contact lenses is essential to maintain healthy vision and prevent any issues related to wearing them.

Common Dos and Don'ts

1. Wash your hands with soap and warm water before handling contact lenses.

2. Avoid swimming or showering while wearing contact lenses.

3. Keep contact lens away from water.

4. Avoid storing contact lenses in the bathroom near sinks, showers, and tubs. 

5. Do not use saliva to wet your contacts or clean them off after wear. 

6. Replace the solution in your case at least once a week and clean the case itself with hot water and a disinfecting solution every day to prevent bacteria growth on your lenses.

Conclusion

It is important to maintain good contact lens hygiene in order to prevent irritation and damage to your lenses. Follow these guidelines and you will be well on your way to enjoying healthy vision. Remember to follow up regularly with your optometrist for aftercare to ensure your eyes and contact lenses are in tiptop conditions. 

With Vision Direct Club, we have highly skilled mobile optometrists that can provide comprehensive eye examinations at your preferred location! In addition, you can find your prescription glasses, contact lenses, and lens solution through the mobile eye clinic.

You can learn more about contact lenses through our telehealth services.

If you are interested in booking your tele-optometry consultation, we are offering complimentary tele-optometry services for the first 20 bookings with our promo code: [ONECALLAWAY] 

We make getting your eye care solutions simple; your prescription will be available in your account after the visit with the mobile optometrists through the mobile eye clinic.