Lens Hygiene Guide: Keep Your Eyes Healthy
Wearing contact lenses is fantastic, provided it is done safely. At Zeker Zicht, we unfortunately often see complications due to improper use. Use this guide to protect your cornea and maintain crystal-clear vision.
The Golden Rule: No Water
Water is the greatest enemy of your contact lenses. Tap water contains bacteria and parasites that can severely damage your eyes.
- Wash your hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and dry them completely before touching your lenses.
- The right location: Store your lens solution and case outside of the bathroom. High humidity attracts bacteria. Also, avoid wet sinks; if a lens falls on a wet surface, it is immediately contaminated.
- No showering or swimming: Always remove your lenses before getting in the water. If you must swim with lenses, use daily disposables and discard them immediately after swimming.
Cleaning: The "Rub & Rinse" Method
Proteins and debris build up on your lenses. Simply soaking them is not enough; you must physically clean them for optimal results.
- Insertion & Removal: Clean your lenses both when putting them in and taking them out.
- Rubbing: Place the lens in your palm with some lens solution and rub gently in circular motions.
- Rinsing: Rinse the lens thoroughly with extra solution afterwards.
- Case Maintenance: Discard old solution immediately. Rinse the case with fresh lens solution (never water!) and let it air-dry upside down on a lint-free tissue, outside of the bathroom.
Healthy Habits & Travel
- Rest periods: Never sleep with your lenses in. Do not wear your lenses all day long; switch to your glasses when you are at home to give your eyes oxygen.
- Safe travel: When on vacation or staying overnight elsewhere, use a separate, clean pouch specifically for your solution and case. This keeps them protected from dirt and bacteria inside your luggage.
Why is hygiene so crucial?
Poor hygiene causes corneal infections (keratitis) that can permanently affect your vision. You can also develop an allergy to lenses (GPC), making it impossible to wear them for more than an hour.
Acanthamoeba danger: This protozoan found in tap water can damage the center of your cornea within hours. This is extremely painful and often disastrous for your eyesight.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lens Hygiene
Can I rinse my lenses with tap water?
Absolutely not. Tap water contains microorganisms like Acanthamoeba. Always use high-quality lens solution to prevent serious infections.
Why is the bathroom a bad place for my lenses?
Bathrooms are humid environments and breeding grounds for bacteria. By storing your supplies in a dry place (like your bedside table), your lens case stays hygienically clean.
What should I do if I go swimming with lenses?
Preferably wear daily disposables (though a risk of infection still exists) and throw them away immediately after swimming. This prevents bacteria from the pool or open water from trapped against your cornea for hours.
How often should I replace my lens case?
Replace your case at least every 1 to 3 months. Rinse it daily with fresh solution and let it dry upside down on a clean tissue.
Time for a lens check-up?
Are you experiencing red eyes, irritation, or do you want to switch to the best care for your eyes?
Book an appointment at Zeker Zicht now