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Best Contact Solutions

Updated October 2022
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
ReNu Lens Solution, Advanced Triple Disinfect Formula
ReNu
Lens Solution, Advanced Triple Disinfect Formula
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Premium Choice
Bottom Line

This is a reliable and easy-to-use contact solution to keep eyes moistened and ensure comfort all day long.

Pros

Doesn’t require users to soak contact lenses in solution, making this a quick and easy way to keep lenses clean and comfortable. Assists in keeping eyes well-lubricated all day long. Is known to be gentle on eyes while also refreshing them. Doesn’t cause burning.

Cons

Not the best product for contact solution for colored contacts by Air Optics.

Best Bang for the Buck
Equate Saline Solution for Sensitive Eyes
Equate
Saline Solution for Sensitive Eyes
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Customer Favorite
Bottom Line

This solution is an effective way to keep contacts fresh, and they come at a bargain price.

Pros

This solution makes it easy to put contacts in and ensures all-day comfort while wearing them. Works well for sensitive eyes. Doesn’t make eyes burn. Solution also acts as a useful way to store contacts while not in use while keeping them fresh.

Cons

This is an effective irrigation solution, but is not meant as much for disinfecting.

Opti-Free Replenish Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution
Opti-Free
Replenish Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution
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Expert Recommended
Bottom Line

This contact solution is trusted and recommended by eye doctors, paying tribute to just how effective it is.

Pros

Purchase includes 2-pack and free lens case. Keeps contacts clean and comfortable and helps eyes retain moisture while wearing contacts. Solution comes in easy-to-squeeze bottle. Gentle enough for everyday use while still remaining highly effective.

Cons

Contains the preservative Aldox, which some people may have sensitivities to.

Clear Care Cleaning & Disinfecting Solution
Clear Care
Cleaning & Disinfecting Solution
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Best for Monthly Lenses
Bottom Line

This is the perfect contact solution for those that wear monthly lenses or are looking for a way to keep infrequently worn lenses fresh.

Pros

Unique contact solution that uses bubbling technology to thoroughly disinfect and refresh lenses, making them feel like new again. Purchase includes complimentary lens case. Can increase the lifespan of contacts with regular use given solution’s hefty disinfecting power.

Cons

Contacts must be left in solution for a minimum of 6 hours for cleansing to be effective.

Bausch And Lomb Sensitive Eyes Plus Saline Contact Solution
Bausch And Lomb
Sensitive Eyes Plus Saline Contact Solution
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Best for Sensitive Eyes
Bottom Line

This is an ideal contact solution for those with sensitive or frequently dry eyes who want something that’s easy to use to freshen contacts.

Pros

For those with sensitive eyes or frequently dry contacts, this saline solution is the answer. Solution comes in quality bottle that makes it easy to distribute drops directly onto lenses. These drops can be used with contacts still in eyes to provide moisture, which is convenient.

Cons

This product may sting for a short amount of time when applied directly to eyes.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
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Buying guide for Best contact solutions

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.

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There’s a bit of trial and error with contact solutions. You may end up trying more than one before finding your favorite.

Key considerations

Solution type

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

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.

Rinsing and storing solution

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. 

Multipurpose solution

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.

Type of lenses

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.

Other features

Bottle size

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.

Multipack

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.

Important notes about cleanliness

When caring for contact lenses, cleanliness makes a big difference and could save you from a painful and expensive trip to the doctor.

Clean hands

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.

Clean bottle

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.

Clean case

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.

Accessories

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 solution prices

Contact solutions cost anywhere from $5 to $18 per bottle. Formula type and quality play a strong role in determining price.

Inexpensive

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.

Mid-range

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.

Expensive

Contact solutions priced closer to $18 include top-quality formulas with the best disinfecting power. Many are specially made for sensitive eyes.

Tips

  • Contact lens solution is a product you should splurge on. It’s important to keep your lenses clean and eyes comfortable. If the best brand for you falls in the moderate or expensive price bracket, it’s probably worth it.
  • Don’t share your contact solution. Avoid sharing contact solution and contact lens cases with others. It’s unsanitary and unsafe, and you could end up sharing contaminants or infections.
  • Store away from the toilet. When you flush the toilet, what’s in the bowl becomes airborne. That’s why it’s a really good idea to store your contact solution, bottle, and lens case in a cabinet or vanity.
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Keep at least two bottles of contact solution on hand. That way, you won’t need to worry about whether a shipment comes on time or if you can make it to the store before closing.

FAQ

Q. I think I might have an eye infection. What should I do with my lenses and contact solution?

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.

Q. Does contact solution expire?

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.

Q. What contact solution is best for kids and teens?

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.

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