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The CDC and optometric guidelines recommend replacing your contact lens case at least every 3 months. Many doctors suggest replacing it even sooner, such as every month, to ensure maximum safety. A good rule of thumb is to throw away your old case every time you buy a new bottle of solution, as most full-size bottles come with a free sterile case included.
read more about contact lens replacement habit ...The main reason for frequent replacement is the formation of bacterial biofilms. A biofilm is a slimy, glue-like layer of bacteria that sticks to the plastic walls of the case. Research shows that once a biofilm forms, it is nearly impossible to remove with standard rinsing. This microscopic layer protects the bacteria from your disinfecting solution, allowing them to multiply safely inside your case.
Studies published in optometric journals indicate that over 60% to 80% of used contact lens cases are contaminated with bacteria or fungi. The most common pathogens found are Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas, both of which can cause severe corneal ulcers. In more dangerous scenarios, cases can harbor Acanthamoeba, a parasite found in tap water that causes a rare but blinding infection.
Replacing the case is not enough; you must clean it daily. You should never use tap water to rinse your case, as it contains impurities and microbes. Instead, dump out the old solution, rinse the case with fresh contact lens solution, and wipe it with a clean tissue. Then, place it face down on a clean tissue to air dry. Bacteria love moisture, so letting the case dry completely is the best way to kill them.
One of the most dangerous habits is "topping off" oradding a little fresh solution to the old liquid left in the case. Data suggests that 55% of wearers do this. This practice dilutes the disinfectant, making it useless against the bacteria in the case. You must always dump 100% of the old liquid and use fresh solution every single time you store your lenses.
It is not recommended. Boiling can warp the plastic, affecting the seal and allowing leaks. It is safer and cheaper to simply replace the case with a new one.
If you use true "daily disposables" (throw away after one use), you do not need a case at all. If you take them out for a nap, you should use a fresh case, but daily lenses are designed to be discarded, not stored.
Drying face down prevents airborne dust and bathroom particles (like toilet plume) from settling inside the wells of the case while it is wet.
If you notice that your eyes are consistently red or irritated after putting in your contacts, or if the case itself looks cracked or discolored, throw it away immediately. If the irritation persists even with a new case and fresh lenses, see your eye doctor to rule out a developing infection.