If you are a first-time wearer, the process might feel a little unfamiliar at first, and that is completely normal. The main goal is to build simple, practical habits that support safe and comfortable wear every single day. Whether you are switching from glasses for weekend sports or wearing contacts full-time, a good contact lens hygiene routine makes all the difference. Remember, you should always follow the specific instructions provided by your optometrist for your exact lens type.
The Golden Rule: Clean Hands Every Time
Before you even open your lens case, there is one step you simply cannot skip: hand hygiene. Washing your hands prevents dirt and natural skin oils from transferring to your lenses and, ultimately, your eyes.
Always wash your hands with plain soap and warm water. It is helpful to avoid heavily moisturising or fragranced soaps right before handling your lenses, as these can leave a cloudy residue on the lens surface. Once washed, dry your hands thoroughly with a clean, lint-free towel.
Putting lenses in while your hands are still wet is a common misstep, and water should never come into contact with your lenses. By starting with clean, dry hands, you set yourself up for clear vision and a comfortable day ahead.
Daily Contact Lens Routine (Step-by-Step)
Getting used to your daily contact lens routine takes a little practice, but it quickly becomes second nature. Here is a clear, numbered routine to guide your mornings and evenings.
Morning insertion routine:
- Wash and dry your hands: Use plain soap and a lint-free towel.
- Check the lens orientation: Place the lens on the tip of your index finger. It should look like a smooth, perfect bowl. If the edges flare out slightly, it is inside out.
- Insert the lens: Gently hold your upper eyelid up and pull your lower eyelid down. Place the lens on your eye, look down, and slowly release your eyelids.
- Confirm comfort and clarity: Blink a few times. The lens should feel comfortable and your vision should be clear.
End-of-day removal routine:
- Wash and dry your hands: Again, thorough hand hygiene is essential before touching your eye.
- Remove the lenses: Look up, gently slide the lens down to the white part of your eye, and carefully pinch it between your thumb and index finger to remove it.
- Clean or store based on your lens type: This is where the steps change depending on the kind of lenses you wear.
Daily disposables vs reusable lenses:
If you wear daily disposables, simply discard them in the bin after removal. If you wear fortnightly or monthly lenses, you will need to clean and store them overnight to prepare them for the next day.
How to Clean and Store Reusable Contact Lenses
If your optometrist has prescribed reusable lenses, learning how to clean contact lenses properly is an important part of your evening. These lenses need to be cleaned and disinfected exactly as directed to remain comfortable.
For most reusable lenses, the standard process involves a “rub and rinse” method. Place the removed lens in the clean palm of your hand, apply a few drops of your recommended multipurpose solution, and gently rub the lens with your finger. This action helps loosen any natural deposits that build up during the day.
Next, rinse the lens with a little more solution before placing it in its case. Always fill the case with fresh solution every time. You should never “top up” old solution, as it loses its ability to clean effectively. Once the lens is submerged, close the case properly.
Do:
- Always use the specific solution recommended by your optometrist.
- Clean your lenses immediately after removing them.
- Follow your specific routine closely.
Avoid:
- Never use basic saline to disinfect; it is only designed for rinsing.
- Do not use tap water, bottled water, or saliva on your lenses.
Contact Lens Storage Case Cleaning (Most People Forget This)
While we spend a lot of time thinking about the lenses themselves, contact lens storage case cleaning is just as important. A clean case supports a clean lens.
After putting your lenses in your eyes for the day, empty all the old solution out of the case. Rinse the empty case thoroughly with fresh contact lens solution—never use tap water. Once rinsed, leave the case open and place it face down on a clean tissue or paper towel to air dry.
It is also important to replace your case regularly. A common recommendation is to start fresh with a new case at least every three months, or whenever you open a new bottle of solution, depending on the guidance from your optometrist.
Contact Lens Replacement Schedule: Daily, Fortnightly, Monthly
Sticking to your prescribed contact lens replacement schedule is one of the most effective ways to maintain comfort. Lenses are manufactured to last for a specific amount of time, and pushing that time frame can lead to problems.
Daily disposable lenses are worn once and thrown away. Fortnightly and monthly lenses are cleaned and stored each night, then replaced after 14 or 30 days of use, respectively. Overwearing your lenses past their intended lifespan allows natural proteins and debris to build up on the lens surface. This can lead to noticeable discomfort and a higher chance of irritation.
To stay on track, try setting a recurring reminder on your phone or marking your calendar on the day you need to open a fresh pair.
Contact Lens Beginner Mistakes (And Easy Fixes)
Everyone makes a few errors when they are just starting out. Being aware of these common contact lens beginner mistakes can help you correct them quickly and build better habits.
- Sleeping in lenses not designed for it: Unless your optometrist has explicitly prescribed a specific lens for overnight wear, always remove your contacts before sleeping to give your eyes a rest.
- Showering or swimming with lenses in: Water from showers and pools introduces unwanted elements to your lenses. Always remove them before water activities.
- Using water to rinse lenses or cases: Tap water is not sterile. Stick to your prescribed cleaning solution.
- Topping up old solution: Adding a few drops of new liquid to yesterday’s solution reduces its effectiveness. Start fresh every day.
- Wearing lenses longer than recommended: Pushing a monthly lens into its fifth week reduces comfort. Stick to the timeline.
- Handling lenses with wet hands: Dry your hands completely to avoid transferring water onto the lens.
- Ignoring dryness or irritation: If your eyes feel gritty, do not just push through the day. Take the lenses out and let your eyes rest.
Comfort Tips for New Wearers
When you first start wearing contact lenses, it can take a little time for your eyes to adapt. Always start with the wearing schedule recommended by your optometrist. They will usually suggest building up your wear time gradually over the first few days.
Remember to give your eyes plenty of breaks, especially if you spend long hours looking at a computer screen, as we tend to blink less when focusing on digital devices. It is always a smart idea to carry a backup pair of glasses with you, providing an easy alternative if you need to take your lenses out. If you notice persistent dryness, discuss it at your next check-up rather than trying to self-manage the issue.
When to Take Your Lenses Out and Call the Practice
Even with a great routine, there may be times when your eyes need a break. It is helpful to know the common signs that mean you should stop wearing your lenses and check in with your practice.
If you experience any of the following, carefully remove your lenses:
- Persistent redness
- Increasing discomfort or a gritty feeling
- Blurred vision that does not clear after a few blinks
- Unusual sensitivity to light
- Any noticeable discharge from the eye
If these signs occur, leave your lenses out and wear your glasses. Contact our team for advice and to ensure everything is on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I shower with contact lenses in?
No, you should remove your lenses before showering. Tap water can alter the shape of soft lenses and introduces unwanted elements to the eye.
Can I nap in my lenses?
Unless your optometrist has prescribed specific lenses for overnight wear, you should take them out before taking a nap.
What if I put the lens in the wrong way around?
It will not cause any harm, but it will feel uncomfortable and might move around when you blink. Take it out, rinse it with solution, flip it, and reinsert.
Do I need a contact lens check-up after my fitting?
Yes, follow-up eye examinations are an important part of the fitting process. They allow your optometrist to check the fit and ensure your eyes are adjusting well.
How do I travel with contact lenses?
Pack enough daily disposables or enough solution for your trip. Always bring your glasses as a backup.
Why do my lenses feel dry by the afternoon?
This can happen due to screen use, air conditioning, or adjusting to a new routine. Discuss this with your optometrist to explore practical solutions.
What should I do if I run out of solution?
Never use water as a substitute. If you are out of solution, safely discard the lenses or speak to your optometrist about replacement options.
Ready for the Next Step in Your Contact Lens Journey?
Mastering contact lens care is mostly about consistency. By following these simple daily steps, you can enjoy clear vision and comfortable wear. Whether you are exploring our contact lenses services for the first time, or need to review your current setup, having a proper fitting and follow-up is key. Make an appointment to speak with our team about finding the right options for your lifestyle. You can also read about Northbridge Optical to learn more about how we support new wearers.
Image Source: Image by YuliiaKa on Freepik
Dr Sophie Dao is the co-owner and principal optometrist at Northbridge Optical, bringing more than 15 years of experience in boutique private practice. A UNSW graduate with Honours and full therapeutic endorsement, she is passionate about providing personalised, high-quality eye care for patients of all ages.
With a special interest in myopia management, Sophie has helped hundreds of children slow the progression of short-sightedness through treatments such as orthokeratology, atropine therapy and advanced myopia-control lenses. As someone who is short-sighted herself and a parent of young children, she understands firsthand the importance of early intervention and long-term vision health.
Sophie believes in creating a welcoming, community-focused experience where every patient feels understood and cared for. When she’s not in the practice, she enjoys spending time with her family and keeping up with the latest research in clinical optometry.
