Keeping your contact lenses hygienic is one of the most important – yet often overlooked – parts of good eye care. The problem is not that most people don't want to take good care of their contact lenses, it is that they don't know how to. At Bling Eyewear, we notice these small mistakes every day. This is why we care so much about helping you take care of your vision.
Whether you are visiting us in Cranston or East Providence, we want you to feel comfortable. We also want you to see clearly. Let’s go over some easy hygiene habits that can really help:
Why Contact Lens Hygiene Matters
Your eyes are sensitive, and your lenses sit directly on them. That means any dirt, bacteria, or residue on your lenses has a direct route to your eye’s surface. Without proper care, this can lead to dryness, irritation, or even infections. Keeping good hygiene makes your lenses comfortable and your vision clear. It also lowers the chance of problems later.
6 DIY Hygiene Tips for Contact Lens Wearers
These at-home habits are quick to follow and protect your eyes day after day:
1. Wash Your Hands First, Always
This step is easy to overlook but very important. Before you handle your contacts, wash your hands with soap and water. This applies when you put them in, take them out, or clean them. Dry them thoroughly with a lint-free towel before touching your lenses.
Avoid using hand sanitizer before handling lenses, as it can leave a residue that irritates the eye. Clean hands are your first line of defense.
2. Clean and Replace Your Lens Case Regularly
Your lens case can harbor bacteria if it is not cleaned properly. Rinse it out daily with fresh contact lens solution (not water), wipe it with a clean tissue, and let it air dry with the caps off. We recommend replacing your case at least every 1 to 3 months. If your case looks dirty or cracked, toss it, and get a new one—it is a small step that goes a long way.
3. Use Fresh Solution Every Time
It can be tempting to “top off” yesterday’s solution to save time, but that creates a breeding ground for bacteria. Always discard old solution and use fresh disinfecting solution every time you store your lenses. Never use tap water or saliva—those can introduce harmful microorganisms.
4. Don’t Sleep in Your Lenses (Unless We Say it is Okay)
We know it is easy to fall asleep while wearing your lenses, especially after a long day. But if you are not using our approved extended-wear lenses, sleeping in contacts can block oxygen to your eyes. This increases your risk of infection.
5. Follow Your Lens Replacement Schedule
Each type of contact lens has a recommended wear time—daily, bi-weekly, monthly—and sticking to that schedule is crucial. Overwearing your lenses can cause protein buildup, dryness, and discomfort. It can also lead to complications that require more than just new lenses to fix.
Keep Up with Regular Eye Exams
Even if your vision seems fine, yearly eye exams help us check that your contacts still fit well. They also make sure your eyes stay healthy over time. We will check for signs of dryness, changes in corneal shape, or irritation caused by your current lenses.
Explore Comfortable, Personalized Contact Lens Options at Bling Eyewear
Not all contact lenses are the same—and your eyes deserve a perfect match. At Bling Eyewear, we take the time to understand your lifestyle and vision needs before recommending the best lenses for you. Whether you are looking for disposable contact lenses for easy maintenance or multifocal options for sharp near and far vision, we have got you covered.
Proper contact lens hygiene is not just about keeping your lenses clean—it is about protecting your vision and long-term eye health. At Bling Eyewear in Rhode Island, we are here to help you. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam to get started.