Contact Lens Do’s and Don’ts Every Wearer Should Know

If you’re new to contact lenses, it’s important to follow healthy habits that keep your eyes comfortable and your vision clear. The Eyewear Collection provides personalized guidance to help you care for your lenses properly. Whether you wear daily disposables, weekly lenses, or specialty contacts, following the right steps can protect your eyes from irritation and infection. Below are the essential do’s and don’ts every contact lens wearer should know when getting contact lenses in Greenwood Village.

 

Do: Wash and Dry Your Hands Before Touching Your Lenses

Clean hands are your first line of defense against germs. Always wash with soap and water, then thoroughly dry your hands with a lint-free towel before inserting or removing lenses. This reduces the risk of contamination and keeps your eyes healthier.

 

Do: Follow the Replacement Schedule

If your lenses are designed for daily use, throw them away at the end of the day. If they’re bi-weekly or monthly lenses, replace them on schedule. Wearing lenses longer than recommended traps debris, lowers oxygen flow, and increases the risk of infections such as keratitis.

 

Do: Clean Your Lens Case Regularly

Your lens case needs attention too. Rinse it with fresh contact lens solution daily (never water), let it air dry, and replace the case every three months. This prevents bacterial buildup and helps keep your contacts fresh.

 

Do: Get Regular Eye Exams

Your vision can change, and your eyes need ongoing care. Routine eye exams ensure your lenses fit properly, your prescription stays accurate, and your corneas remain healthy. If you experience dryness, irritation, redness, or blurred vision, schedule an appointment with our eye doctor in Greenwood Village, CO.

 

Don’t: Sleep in Your Contacts

Sleeping in contacts reduces oxygen to the cornea and can dramatically increase the risk of infection. Only sleep in lenses if your eye doctor specifically approves them for extended wear.

 

Don’t: Use Water or Saliva to Clean Your Lenses

Water - even filtered or bottled - can introduce microorganisms into your lenses. Saliva contains bacteria that should never come in contact with your eyes. Only use the contact lens solution recommended by your eye doctor.

 

Don’t: Swim or Shower While Wearing Contacts

Water can cause your contacts to swell, warp, or trap harmful bacteria. If you swim or shower with lenses in, you increase the risk of eye irritation, infections, or even serious conditions such as Acanthamoeba keratitis. Choose prescription goggles or remove your contacts before entering the water.

Don’t: Ignore Discomfort

If your lenses suddenly feel painful, gritty, or your vision becomes cloudy, remove them right away. Continuing to wear lenses when something feels off can worsen the issue. Schedule an exam so your doctor can assess what’s causing the irritation.

 

Don’t: Switch Brands Without Consulting Your Doctor

Lens materials, shapes, and moisture levels vary by brand. What works for one person may not work for another. Always check with your eye doctor before changing brands or solutions to ensure compatibility and comfort.

 

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam Today

Healthy contact lens habits make all the difference in how comfortable and safe your lenses feel each day. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can enjoy clear, convenient vision without compromising your eye health. If you have questions about lenses, experience discomfort, or need updated contact lenses in Greenwood Village, our team is here to help.

Experience comfortable, customized vision with expert care from The Eyewear Collection. Visit our office in Greenwood Village, Colorado, or call (720) 226-8200 to schedule a contact lens exam and fitting today.