Have you ever stopped to think about how much trust you place in your contact lenses? They sit directly on your eyes for hours each day, helping you see clearly at work, on the road, and during everyday activities. Yet many people spend more time caring for their phone screen than they do caring for their contact lenses.
Whether you're new to contact lenses or have worn them for years, a refresher on proper contact lens care can help protect your eyes in the long run.
If you have questions about your lenses or notice changes in your vision, routine eye exams at Newton Optometry Clinic can help keep your prescription and eye health on track.
Why Contact Lens Hygiene Matters
Proper cleaning helps contact lenses remain safe and comfortable. Without consistent care, bacteria, protein deposits, and other contaminants can build up on the lens surface.
This buildup can contribute to:
-
Eye irritation
-
Redness
-
Dryness
-
Blurry vision
-
Reduced lens comfort
Many contact lens complications begin with habits that seem harmless. Sleeping in lenses, topping off old solution, or skipping replacement schedules can all increase the risk of problems.
Start With Clean Hands
Every time you handle your contacts:
-
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
-
Rinse away any soap residue.
-
Dry your hands with a clean, lint-free towel.
Lotions, oils, dirt, and bacteria can transfer from your fingers directly onto the lens surface. Once those substances reach the eye, irritation often follows.
For people living and working in busy communities like Surrey, daily exposure to workplaces, schools, transit systems, and recreational facilities means our hands encounter countless surfaces throughout the day. Clean hands create a simple first line of defence.
Follow Your Lens Replacement Schedule
Daily disposable lenses should be discarded after a single day of wear. Monthly and biweekly lenses should be replaced according to the schedule prescribed by your eye doctor.
Some patients wear lenses beyond their replacement date to save money or avoid opening a new pair. Unfortunately, older lenses accumulate deposits that become harder to remove over time.
Common Eye Care Mistakes to Avoid
Many contact lens problems begin with small habits that seem harmless but gradually increase risk.
Sleeping in Contact Lenses
Unless your eye doctor specifically recommends overnight wear, contact lenses should come out before bed.
Your cornea receives oxygen directly from the air. Keeping lenses on overnight can reduce oxygen flow and increase the risk of irritation, inflammation, and infection.
Wearing Lenses During Water Activities
Swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, and oceans can all expose contact lenses to microorganisms that do not belong on the eye.
If you plan to swim, consider prescription goggles or ask your optometrist whether daily disposable lenses may be a good option for your lifestyle.
Ignoring Discomfort
Your eyes often give you an early warning when something needs attention.
Remove your lenses and contact your eye care team if you experience:
-
Persistent redness
-
Eye pain
-
Sudden blurry vision
-
Light sensitivity
-
Excessive tearing
-
A feeling that something is stuck in your eye
Prompt attention can help prevent minor concerns from becoming larger issues.
Protect Your Eye Health in Surrey, BC
Whether you're considering contacts for the first time or looking for greater comfort with your current lenses, our team can help evaluate your options and monitor your eye health through comprehensive eye exams.
Many contact lens complications are preventable. A strong care routine helps keep your lenses comfortable, your vision clear, and your eyes healthy for years to come.
Schedule your eye exam at Newton Optometry Clinic today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my contact lens case?
Most eye care professionals recommend replacing your contact lens case every three months. Over time, bacteria and deposits can accumulate even when the case appears clean.
Can I use tap water to rinse my contact lenses?
No. Tap water can contain microorganisms that may increase the risk of serious eye infections. Always use an approved contact lens solution for cleaning and storage.
How often should I have eye exams if I wear contact lenses?
Most contact lens wearers should have annual eye exams, though some patients may benefit from more frequent visits depending on their eye health and prescription needs.