Alternatives for Lens Solution

Although there are times when commercial contact lens solution is not available, using the wrong alternative solution can cause serious eye infection and possible loss of vision. Two alternatives to avoid are saliva and tap water. Both can carry large amounts of eye-irritating bacteria. You can protect your contact lenses and your eyes by following a few good common-sense lens solution alternatives.

Commercial Saline Solution With Preservatives

• Commercial saline solutions with preservatives provide the best alternative to lens solution. The preservatives will slow the growth of bacteria in the saline solution. Be careful, however, not to exceed the expiration date.

Preservative-Free Commercial Saline Solution

• Preservative-free commercial saline solution is a good alternative for contact wearers who are sensitive to preservatives. Sensitivity symptoms may include redness, itching and eye irritation. Once opened, preservative-free saline solution can become contaminated quickly. Choose one-time-use preservative-free solutions or solutions that are tightly sealed. Spray-can solution is good for short-term use, however, bacteria and oils from your skin may cause the applicator tip to become contaminated if touched.

Homemade Saline Solution

• Use table salt and distilled water to create homemade saline solution.

  Homemade saline solution should only be used for temporary emergency situations. Use 1 cup of distilled water mixed with a pinch of table salt to create a cleaning solution. Although bacteria is found in some distilled water, the amounts are at far lower levels than normal tap water. Adding salt to the mixture will help to kill some of the bacteria. Place your contact lenses into your commercial lens solution as soon as possible to avoid bacteria build-up.