Updated: January 21, 2026
You should clean contact lenses only with contact lens solutions recommended for your lens type, such as multipurpose disinfecting solution or a hydrogen peroxide care system. These products are made to remove deposits and disinfect lenses safely without damaging the material or irritating your eyes. Water, saliva, and homemade mixtures are unsafe because they can introduce germs and increase the risk of serious eye infection.
Do:
- Use a multipurpose solution labeled for your lenses to rub, rinse, disinfect, and store reusable soft contacts if your prescriber recommends it.
- Use a hydrogen peroxide system only with the correct neutralizing case and full soak time, and insert lenses only after complete neutralization.
- Use solutions labeled for your lens type (including RGP/GP products if you wear rigid lenses) and follow the label directions every time.
Don’t:
- Don’t use water, saliva, or soap to clean lenses, and don’t rinse lenses or cases with tap water.
- Don’t use hydrogen peroxide solution like eye drops or to rinse lenses right before inserting, because unneutralized peroxide can burn your eyes.
- Don’t “top off” old solution in the case; always discard it and refill with fresh solution each time you store lenses.
The safest way to clean contacts is to use the exact solution and steps recommended for your lens type, because improper products can raise irritation and infection risk.
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.
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.
Healthy Habits: Keeping Water Away from Contact Lenses. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). https://www.cdc.gov/contact-lenses/about/healthy-habits-keeping-water-away-from-contact-lenses.html. Updated May 27, 2025.
