How Long Can Contacts Stay in Solution?

Cleaning your contact lenses properly will reduce chances of bacteria growth and infection. Having clean lenses will also ensure you will be able to see clearly. To be sure you take good care of your contact lenses, read any information your eye specialist gives you. This will help you care for your lenses at home.

Choosing a Solution

• At any retail store there are many lens-cleaning solutions to choose from. Whether you choose a store brand or a more expensive brand name, be sure to watch for any announcements or recalls regarding cleaning solutions. In some cases cleaning solutions have been recalled because of an increased risk of bacteria or fungus, which can cause infections in the eye.

  Some cleaning solutions contain both a saline mixture and a disinfectant, which cuts down on cleaning time. Use a small contact lens cleaning case, and fill each compartment with the cleaner and disinfectant. Tighten the lids securely and allow the lenses to sit in the cleaner for at least six hours. By using a case to let them soak, you lower the risk of rips or tears to the lens.

  To clean contact lenses with separate solutions for cleaning and disinfecting, take a lens and place it in the palm of the hand. Stream the disinfectant solution onto the lens for approximately 20 seconds, and then rub the lens gently on each side in a circular motion. It is very important to do this carefully to prevent tears or scratches to the lens. After you have disinfected them, squirt the saline solution onto the lenses for about 20 seconds, and then store them in a lens case until you need them again.

Cleansing Frequency

• Depending on whether you wear soft or hard contact lenses, the cleaning process may vary. Soft lenses attract more pollution and substances, so they should be cleaned daily to prevent infection and reduce irritation of the eye. Remove the lenses each night before bed and clean them with a solution, and place them safely in a contact lens case until morning.

  You will need to clean hard contacts before each use with a solution created especially for your lenses. The eye specialist will determine this solution according to the type of lenses you have and how often you will need to clean them. The process for cleaning hard contact lenses is virtually the same as that for soft lenses, except that you rinse off the cleaning solution with tap water to remove residue from the lens.