How to clean a contact lens case properly

Medically reviewed by Tina Patel, Contact Lens Optician at Feel Good Contacts.

Whether you use contact lenses to correct your vision or just to change your eye colour, it’s essential to have a thorough cleaning routine to maintain optimal eye health. We all know how important it is to keep your contact lens clean, but have you thought about how important it is to clean the lens case too? Keeping your contact lens case pristine is essential for good eye health and germ-free contact lenses.

• Do I have to clean my contact case every day?
• What are the steps to keep my contact lens case clean?
• How often do you clean contact lens case?
• What should I clean my contact lens case with?
• How do you take care of a lens case?

A clean contact lens case not only reduces the risk of eye infections but also maintains a good level of hygiene for your contact lenses. In this article, we will delve into the importance of regular maintenance and provide easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions on how to clean a contact lens case effectively.

Do I have to clean my contact case every day?

It is essential to clean your contact lens case regularly. Neglecting this simple task can lead to eye infections and discomfort, as harmful microorganisms like bacteria and fungi thrive in moist environments and can contaminate your contact lenses. There are a few easy steps to clean your contact lens case, depending on the products you use to clean it.

What are the steps to keep my contact lens case clean?

Whether you're new to wearing contact lenses or unsure about the proper cleaning process of a lens case, you need not worry about it. Here are a few essential steps for cleaning a lens case.

Wash your hands

First and foremost, you need to wash your hands with soap and water. Using an antibacterial soap to ensure no germs are lingering on your hands is ideal. Drying your hands thoroughly is just as important, as water can contain acanthamoeba which can lead to an eye infection if left on your lens case or contact lenses.

Organise supplies

Keep all your contact lens care products organised in one place, this includes your contact lens solution, lens case and some clean lint-free tissues.

Ensure that the lens case is empty

Ensure the lens case is empty before you begin cleaning it, this means pouring out the old solution and making sure the lenses are not in there before you start the process.

Rinse the lens case with solution

Fill your contact lens case with fresh multipurpose contact lens solution. Rub the inside surfaces with a clean fingertip and empty the case. You should not use anything other than contact lens solution to clean your case.

Note: Using tap water, soap or other cleaning agents that aren’t medically approved can harm your eyes and contact lenses.

Pat your lens case dry

Wipe the case dry with a clean lint free tissue, then leave the case upside down on a clean tissue to air dry and place the lids face down.

It is important to completely dry the case to prevent bacterial growth.

Reassemble and store

Once the case is dry, you can reassemble it with the lids, this will prevent it from being contaminated until you are ready to use it again.

How often do you clean contact lens case?

It's advisable to replace your contact lens case every one to three months, but the ideal frequency may vary based on the type of contacts, solution and case you have. Replace the lens case immediately if it appears broken or damaged.

Cleaning lens cases isn't effective in the long run, medical professionals recommend regular replacement of lens cases. This practice is instrumental in reducing eye infections.

What should I clean my contact lens case with?

It is essential to clean your contact lens case and contact lenses with the same solution. Before switching solutions always check with your optician. Here are some of our top recommendations for cleaning products to take care of your lens case and reusable contact lenses:

How do you take care of a lens case?

Here are some tips for lens case hygiene:

• Wash your hands with an antibacterial soap and dry them before handling the lens case
• Rub and rinse your lens case using a solution recommended by an optician
• Wipe your lens case with a lint-free towel or tissue and air dry after each use
• Replace your lens case monthly
• Never use tap water, any liquids or solutions that have not been recommended by your optician
• Never share your lens case with other people

We hope now you know how to clean your contact lens cases properly. Make sure to incorporate these steps into your lens care routine and you can maintain the best eye care hygiene. Have friends who also wear contact lenses? Share this contact lens cleaning guide with them!