I have been wearing contacts for a really long time now, maybe 11 years? In that time I’ve read a ton of news stories about people not caring for their eyes, not cleaning their lenses correctly, and people going blind because it. That’s scary! Sure, it might be rare, but that doesn’t mean I shouldn’t take notice and make sure that my contacts cleaning regimen is up to par. Here are some things I’ve learned from years of wearing contacts.
Wash your hands before near your contacts or eyes. Seriously, if you aren’t you are just being irresponsible. Use soap and water and wash thoroughly (sing the ABC’s to yourself if you have to) and dry your hands with a clean towel. You want to wash your hands before putting in or taking out your contacts. Also, if you are going to use an re-wetting drops, wash your hands before use as well.
The AOA recommends washing your hands, so don’t skip it!
Keep your case clean. This does NOT mean fill it with solution, put the lids on and let it sit. You should be rinsing it with solution and letting it air dry in a safe, out-of-reach-of-small-hands location. Everytime you use that case you should be filling it with fresh solution and never, ever reuse the solution. If you notice the outside of your case getting grimy, you can wash it off with water and a mild soap. Rinse well with water, and then give it a rinse with contact lens solution before letting it air dry.
Don’t use decorative contact lenses. You know, the ones that make you have a different eye color, or “cat” eyes, or anything for customes or Halloween purposes. These contacts aren’t prescription or regulated by the FDA so who knows what they are made of. Why risk it? You can ask your optometrist if they have anything for costume purposes, don’t buy something from the store or random vendor.
Have your regular exams and bring up any concerns. This is so important. Our eye sight can change over time, and if you’ve been pregnant you know that your eye sight can change with each pregnancy! Make sure your optometrist is aware of any health issues you are having or any vision concerns. Schedule your appointments, keep them, and protect your eye sight!
Don’t be afraid to take a break. It’s okay to take your contacts out after a long day of wear. I know that for me, after a long day of working at the computer, my eyes feel tired and dry. That feeling of taking out my lenses and letting my eyes rest is so welcoming! You can ask your optometrist to prescribe a pair of glasses to have as a “back up”, in case you need a break from contacts. They are happy to get you situated!
Always have cleansing solution! Buy an extra bottle to keep in your bathroom, you don’t want to run out. Never, ever, ever use water to clean your contacts.
I love wearing contacts as a mom. Those little hands love to grab – but they can’t get to my contacts!
Learn more about wearing contact lenses from the AOA.
I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.