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Updated December 5th, 2024 – The proper use of everything related to your contact lenses, including your contact lens case, is essential for good eye health. Your contact lens case’s condition affects both the lenses themselves and your eyes, which is why you need to regularly clean and replace your contact lens case.
Unfortunately, many contact lens wearers are clueless when it comes to the proper way to care for their contact lens cases. Lens.com wants to remedy that. To that end, we answer some of the most common questions people have about contact lens cases in this article.
1. How long can I use my contact lens case?
The lifespan of a contact lens case will vary from person to person. Generally speaking, you should replace your contact lens case every one to three months, even if your current case still looks clean.
2. Why do I need to replace my contact lens case regularly?
It’s important to replace your contact lens case regularly to avoid irritation and infection. Over time, bacteria and other microorganisms can build up on the inside surface of your contact lens case. They can then latch onto your contacts and make it hard for your contact lens cleaning solution to work properly. Wearing contact lenses infested with bacteria and other microorganisms can also cause potentially serious or vision-threatening eye infections.
3. How do I clean my contact lens case?
To avoid any eye-related problems, follow these steps when cleaning your contact lens case:
- Wash your hands with mild soap and water. Dry them with a clean, lint-free towel.
- Empty your contact lens case, ensuring no leftover contact lens solution exists.
- Using a clean, lint-free cloth or a clean finger, scrub the entire interior surface of the contact lens case, including the lids. Spend at least five seconds scrubbing each section of the case to make sure it’s thoroughly clean.
- Rinse your contact lens case, including the lids, with several drops of fresh disinfecting solution.
- Place your contact lens case face-down on a piece of tissue paper or a clean cloth and allow it to air dry.
Remember that you should only use disinfecting solution to clean your contact lens case. Never use other liquids that contain strong chemicals, such as alcohol, bleach, and liquid detergent. These liquids can leave a residue on the interior surface of your contact lens case, and that can stick to your contact lenses, potentially damaging them and putting you at risk for eye infections.
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4. Are there any other ways to clean my contact lens case?
An alternative way to clean your contact lens case is to place it in a container of boiling water for a few minutes. This helps to sterilize it. You can do this occasionally, as experts say that rinsing your contact lens case with a disinfecting solution is already sufficient.
5. Can I clean my contact lens case with tap water?
No, you should never clean your contact lens case with water. Tap water is generally safe for drinking but not for cleaning contacts or contact lens cases. Tap water contains germs and contaminants that can stick to your contacts and contact lens case and cause irritation. The same can be said for freshwater, seawater, regular eye drops, saline solution, and even sterilized drinking water.
How to Properly Clean Your Contact Lens Case
Maintaining a clean contact lens case is just as important as caring for your lenses themselves. A dirty case can harbor bacteria, fungi, and other harmful microorganisms that could cause eye infections. Here’s how to keep your case clean and safe for your lenses:
- Rinse and Dry After Each Use. After removing your lenses, rinse the case with fresh, sterile contact lens solution (not water!). Wipe it dry with a clean tissue or paper towel to prevent moisture buildup.
- Deep Clean Weekly. Once a week, soak your contact lens case in a disinfecting solution recommended by your eye care provider. Allow it to air dry completely before using it again.
- Replace Your Case Regularly. Over time, even the most thoroughly cleaned case can degrade and harbor bacteria. Eye care professionals recommend replacing your lens case every three months or sooner if you notice any cracks or damage.
- Store Your Case Properly. When not in use, store your lens case upside down and in a dry area to ensure it remains clean and free from contaminants.
By following these simple cleaning steps, you can extend the life of your contact lens case and help ensure your eyes stay healthy and infection-free.
Ensuring the Best Care for Your Contact Lens Case
Your contact lens case is just as important as the lenses themselves when it comes to eye health. By understanding the right way to store, clean, and replace your case, you can help prevent infections and ensure your lenses stay safe to wear. Taking care of your contact lens case might seem like a small detail, but it’s a key step toward maintaining healthy eyes and a comfortable contact lens experience.
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