As an eye care professional, I’ve seen too many patients come in with red, painful eyes caused by preventable mistakes in contact lens care. Whether you’re new to wearing lenses or a seasoned user, improper handling can lead to serious eye infections, including corneal ulcers. Let’s go over seven common mistakes and how you can avoid them to protect your vision.

Tip #1: Never touch contact lenses or eyes with dirty hands.

This might seem basic, but it’s often overlooked. Before handling your lenses, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, then dry them with a lint-free towel. Bacteria and other contaminants on your hands can easily transfer to your lenses and cause infections.

Tip #2: Don’t sleep in your contact lenses.

Sleeping in contact lenses increases the risk of infection dramatically because it limits oxygen flow to your corneas. Even “extended wear” lenses come with risks, so always remove them before bedtime unless explicitly directed by your doctor.

Tip #3: Keep water away from your contact lenses.

Water, whether from a shower, swimming pool, or tap, is a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms like Acanthamoeba, which can cause severe eye infections. Never rinse your lenses with water or wear them while swimming.

Tip #4: Don’t mix contact lens solutions.

Topping off old solution in your lens case with fresh solution may seem harmless, but it dilutes the disinfectant properties, allowing bacteria to grow. Always discard the used solution, rinse your case with fresh solution, and let it air dry.

Tip #5: Don’t use old contact lens cases.

Lens cases can become contaminated over time. Replace them every three months to minimize the risk of bacterial growth. Be sure to clean and air-dry your case daily with fresh solution, not water.

Tip #6: Don’t wear contact lenses for extended periods.

Wearing lenses longer than recommended can lead to oxygen deprivation, dry eyes, and irritation. Follow your eye doctor’s instructions for wear time, and give your eyes a break by using glasses periodically.

Tip #7: Never wear contacts without a prescription.

Decorative and cosmetic lenses, like those worn for Halloween, may seem fun, but non-prescription lenses often lack proper quality control. These lenses can cause scratches, infections, and even permanent vision loss. Always purchase lenses through a licensed provider.

Protecting your eyes starts with good hygiene and following these tips. If you experience redness, pain, blurred vision, or unusual discharge, remove your lenses immediately and consult an eye care professional. Remember, your vision is precious—don’t take it for granted! For more insights, check out my video where I delve into these tips in detail. Let’s keep your eyes healthy and infection-free!