Cleaning your contacts is an important part of maintaining good eye health and ensuring optimal vision. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your contacts effectively:
1. Always wash your hands thoroughly: Before handling your contacts, make sure you wash your hands with mild soap and water. This helps eliminate any dirt, oils, or bacteria that may be present on your hands.
2. Remove one contact lens at a time: Start with one eye and gently remove the contact lens from your eye using your fingertip. Be careful not to scratch or damage the lens.
3. Rinse the lens with contact lens solution: Once the lens is out, rinse it with multipurpose contact lens solution. Place the lens in the palm of your hand and pour a few drops of solution on it. Gently rub the lens with your fingertip to remove any debris or protein buildup.
4. Clean the lens case: While the lens is being cleaned, empty the lens case and rinse it with fresh contact lens solution. Use your fingertip to rub the inside of the case to remove any residue. Rinse the case thoroughly and let it air dry.
5. Store the lens in fresh solution overnight: After cleaning the lens, place it in a clean lens case and fill it with fresh contact lens solution. Never reuse the solution as it can harbor bacteria. Make sure the lens is fully submerged in the solution and close the case securely.
6. Repeat the process for the other lens: Follow the same steps to clean the other contact lens.
7. Replace your lens case regularly: Lens cases can become breeding grounds for bacteria and other microorganisms. It is recommended to replace your lens case every three months or as per your eye care professional’s instructions.
FAQs:
1. Can I use water to clean my contact lenses?
No, it is not safe to clean your contact lenses with water. Water can contain microorganisms that may cause eye infections.
2. How often should I clean my contact lenses?
Contact lenses should be cleaned daily. Ideally, you should clean them every night before storing them in fresh contact lens solution.
3. Can I use my saliva to clean my contact lenses?
No, using saliva to clean your contact lenses is not recommended. Saliva contains bacteria that may cause eye infections or other complications.
4. Do I need a separate cleaning solution for my contact lenses?
No, multipurpose contact lens solution can be used for cleaning, rinsing, disinfecting, and storing your contact lenses.
5. Is it necessary to rub the lenses when cleaning them?
Yes, rubbing the lenses gently while cleaning helps remove debris, protein buildup, and other deposits that may accumulate on the lens surface.
6. Can I use a lens cleaner instead of contact lens solution?
No, lens cleaners are only meant to clean glasses and are not designed for contact lenses. Use a reliable contact lens solution recommended by your eye care professional.
7. How frequently should I replace my contact lens case?
It is advisable to replace your contact lens case every three months or as instructed by your eye care professional. A dirty or old case can increase the risk of eye infections.
BOTTOM LINE:
Properly cleaning your contact lenses ensures good eye health and clear vision. Follow the steps outlined above and always consult your eye care professional for personalized advice on how to clean and care for your specific type of contact lenses.
