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If you wear contact lenses, you know there’s a bit of maintenance that comes with them. Your eye health is of utmost importance, which is why keeping your lenses clean should be a top priority.
Caring for your contact lenses all starts with the right contact solution, which is responsible for cleaning your lenses when you’re not wearing them. The solution fights germs and bacteria and helps remove the daily buildup of tiny dust particles and debris. It also keeps lenses at the right moisture level so you can wear them comfortably all day long.
When it comes to contact solutions, there are two main types: disinfecting solution and rinsing and storing solution. There are also multipurpose solutions that combine these two processes.
Generally speaking, using a contact solution is a two-step process, so you’ll either buy one or two products to get through it.
Disinfecting solution removes germs and rids lenses of particles and organisms that can cause serious eye infections. A disinfecting formula may contain boric acid, hydrogen peroxide, or sodium chlorine, just to name a few active ingredients.
Read the directions thoroughly before using a disinfecting solution, as proper use varies from brand to brand. Some products require you to immerse your lenses in the solution. Others require you to gently rub the disinfectant into the lenses.
A rinsing and storing solution won’t give the same deep clean that a disinfecting solution will. As the name suggests, you use this type of solution simply to rinse and store your lenses. With that said, they’re often used to rinse and store lenses after disinfecting solution has been applied.
Some people carry rinsing and storing solutions with them for a quick, refreshing rinse during the day.
A simplified approach to the two-step disinfection/rinsing process involves a multipurpose solution. With a multipurpose solution, you can disinfect, rinse, store, and even rehydrate your lenses with the same bottle of liquid.
These formulas are often preferred by those with sensitive eyes. While they lack the harsh concentration of disinfection-only solutions, they’re still effective at keeping germs and harmful microorganisms at bay.
Do you wear hard or soft contact lenses? This matters when choosing a contact solution, as some are specially formulated for each type. Most contact solutions are actually safe for use with both types of lenses, but it’s best to read the packaging thoroughly to make sure. If it’s not specifically listed, your best bet is to contact the manufacturer for a definitive answer.
Although there is no standard bottle size, most brands are available in 10- or 12-ounce bottles. However, these are not the most travel-friendly options. There are smaller bottles of contact solution available, but they’re often far more expensive than their larger counterparts.
If you want to save big on your contact solution, buy a multipack. You can select a package with anywhere from two to four bottles, which breaks down to an overall savings of up to 70% per bottle.
Luckily, you don’t need a membership at a big wholesale club to snag a deal like this. Multipacks of contact solution are readily available online. Some are even packaged as deluxe kits with extras such as a lens case, extra travel bottle, or rewetting drops.
When caring for contact lenses, cleanliness makes a big difference and could save you from a painful and expensive trip to the doctor.
Handling lenses with clean hands minimizes the risk of introducing contaminants to the lenses and the solution. Thoroughly rinse soap from your hands to prevent residue from contaminating your contact solution.
Your bottle of contact solution should be kept impeccably clean. Keep the lid securely shut when you’re not dispensing solution and avoid the dangerous and unsanitary practice of using the bottle as a direct dropper into your eyes.
Your lens cases should also be kept pristine. Empty the solution after every use. Clean and wipe down your case daily to prevent stickiness and buildup in the nooks and crannies.
Lens case: Axim US Contact Lens Cases, 12-Pack
Make sure your solution and lenses have a quality case. We like these cases from Axim US, which are FDA-approved. They close tightly to seal out bacteria, dirt, and contaminants, and they are clearly marked L and R with opposing green and white lids.
Rewetting drops: Bausch + Lomb ReNu MultiPlus Lubricating and Rewetting Drops
When you’re on the go and need to moisten your eyes, sometimes it’s a while before you can clean your lenses. In the meantime, use rewetting drops like these from Bausch + Lomb. They’ll help control dryness and irritation with a soothing, sterile formula.
Contact solutions cost anywhere from $5 to $18 per bottle. Formula type and quality play a strong role in determining price.
Contact solutions priced at $8 per bottle or less include full-size bottles of entry-level rinse and store formulas. Some travel-size bottles are also found here.
Full-size bottles of disinfecting solution and multipurpose solution can cost between $8 and $12. These are typically made by well-known brands and sometimes come with lens cases.
Contact solutions priced closer to $18 include top-quality formulas with the best disinfecting power. Many are specially made for sensitive eyes.
A. Remove your lenses immediately and wear your glasses until you can see a doctor. More than likely, you’ll need to toss your lenses and case for new ones. Keep in mind you’ll need to run through your course of medications or antibiotics, including eye drops, before your doctor clears you for lens wear again.
A. Yes, so take note of the expiration date on the packaging. Using it after the expiration date could mean you’re using a solution that has changed in potency or composition, putting you at tremendous risk.
A. Multipurpose solution is by far the most convenient to use, especially for kids on the go with busy schedules. If possible, choose a solution that is specially formulated for sensitive eyes, maximum comfort, and all-day wear.
