How To Clean Contact Lenses

Updated: January 19, 2026

To clean contact lenses, wash and dry your hands, then clean, rinse, and disinfect the lenses using the exact solution and steps recommended for your lens type. Proper cleaning removes deposits and germs that can irritate your eyes or increase infection risk. Your routine can differ for daily disposables, multipurpose solutions, and hydrogen peroxide systems, so the product label and your prescriber’s instructions matter.

Quick Steps:

1. Wash hands with soap and water and dry with a lint-free towel before touching your lenses.
2. Remove one lens, place it in your palm, and rub it gently with a few drops of the correct solution (unless your system specifically says not to rub).
3. Rinse the lens with fresh solution and place it in a clean case filled with fresh disinfecting solution, then repeat for the other lens.
4. Let lenses disinfect for the full time on the label, and for hydrogen peroxide systems, use only the provided neutralizing case and complete the neutralization cycle.
5. Empty, rinse, and air-dry your lens case daily, replace the case regularly, and never use water or saliva on lenses or cases.

Consistent cleaning with the correct solution and full disinfection time is one of the most important steps for comfortable, safe contact lens wear.

Disclaimer: This information is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

References:

About Cleaning, Disinfecting, and Storing Contact Lenses. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). https://www.cdc.gov/contact-lenses/about/about-cleaning-disinfecting-and-storing-contact-lenses.html. Updated May 27, 2025.

How to Take Care of Contact Lenses. American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/contact-lens-care. Updated April 22, 2022.

Contact Lenses: Safe Use of Hydrogen Peroxide Solution. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/contact-lenses-safe-use-hydrogen-peroxide-solution. Published July 26, 2023.