Contact lenses provide freedom of movement and a wide field of vision, but safe wear depends on professional fitting and careful hygiene. These ten practical tips can help reduce the risk of irritation and infection.
Important: Contact lenses are medical devices. This guide is general information and does not replace an eye examination or personalised advice from an eye-care professional.
10 tips for safe contact lens wear
1. Have a professional fitting
Do not order lenses based only on your glasses prescription. Corneal measurements, tear film and lens movement must be assessed.
2. Wash and dry your hands
Use soap and dry with a lint-free towel before touching lenses. Avoid oily hand creams immediately before handling.
3. Follow the replacement schedule
Daily, two-week or monthly lenses must not be worn beyond their intended replacement period, even if they look clean.
4. Do not sleep in lenses
Do not sleep or nap in lenses unless the specific product is approved for overnight wear and your eye-care professional has instructed you to do so.
5. Keep lenses away from water
Never rinse with water and remove lenses before showering, swimming or using a hot tub. Water can carry harmful microorganisms.
6. Use fresh approved solution
Follow product instructions. Never top up old solution and never reuse it.
7. Rub and rinse as instructed
For reusable lenses, follow the cleaning, rubbing, rinsing and disinfection method specified for your care system.
8. Care for the lens case
Empty it, clean it with fresh solution, allow it to air-dry and replace it regularly according to instructions.
9. Insert before makeup
Put lenses in before applying makeup and remove them before removing makeup to reduce contact with particles and oils.
10. Stop if discomfort occurs
Pain, marked redness, light sensitivity, discharge or sudden blurred vision require immediate lens removal and professional advice.
Why water is dangerous
Tap, bottled, sea and swimming-pool water are unsuitable for cleaning or storing contact lenses. Water may contain microorganisms, including Acanthamoeba, which is associated with severe keratitis. Remove lenses before any water activity.
Remove lenses immediately if you notice:
- pain or a persistent foreign-body sensation,
- marked redness or discharge,
- sudden blurred vision,
- unusual sensitivity to light.
Do not reinsert the lens before receiving professional advice.
Cleaning and storage
- Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
- Place the lens in your clean palm.
- Use the recommended solution and follow rubbing and rinsing instructions.
- Fill a clean case with new solution—never old liquid.
- Allow the full disinfection time stated on the product.
Hydrogen peroxide systems require their special case and the complete neutralisation time. Never place unneutralised peroxide in the eye. Follow the manufacturer’s and your professional’s instructions precisely.
Daily disposable or reusable lenses?
Daily disposable lenses are opened, worn once and discarded, simplifying care. Reusable lenses may suit frequent wear but require a consistent cleaning routine and proper case care. The best choice depends on prescription, eye health, work environment and frequency of use.
Always carry your case, suitable solution and backup glasses. If lenses need to be removed, do not force yourself to wear them again.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take a short nap in lenses?
No, unless the lens is specifically approved for extended wear and your eye-care professional has clearly advised it.
Can saline disinfect lenses?
No. Saline does not disinfect. Use only the care system recommended for your lens type.
How often should I replace the case?
Follow manufacturer and professional instructions. Regular replacement is essential; many guidelines recommend approximately every three months.
Need a contact lens fitting?
Book an appointment for assessment, insertion training and lens selection tailored to your eyes.
