British Contact Lens Association

The dos and don’ts of contact lens wear

Here are some useful tips on contact lens wear and care to help you get the best out of your contact lenses
 

Have regular check-ups as advised by your practitioner

Wash and dry your hands prior to handling your lenses

Rub, rinse and store your lenses in the recommended solution before and after each use (except single-use lenses, which should be discarded after each wear)

Clean the lens case with solution, wipe with a clean tissue then air-dry after each use

Always apply the same lens first to avoid mixing them up

Check the lens is not inside out before applying

Handle carefully to avoid damaging the lens

Apply your lenses before putting on make-up

Remove lenses then remove make-up

Keep your eyes closed when using hairspray or other aerosols

Replace your lens case at least monthly

Discard lenses and solutions that are past their expiry date

Wear only the lenses specified by your contact lens practitioner

Stick strictly to the recommended wearing schedule and replacement frequency

Make sure you have an adequate supply of replacement lenses or a spare pair

Have an up-to-date pair of spectacles for when you need to remove your lenses

 
Ask yourself these three questions, each time you wear your lenses:

Use tap water, or any other water, on your lenses or lens case

Wet your lenses with saliva

Put a lens on the eye if it falls on the floor or other surface, without cleaning and storing again

Apply a lens if it is dirty, dusty or damaged

Continue to wear your lenses if your eyes don’t feel good, look good, or see well

Re-use or top up solution – discard and replace with fresh solution each time lenses are stored

Decant solution into smaller containers

Wear lenses left in the case for more than seven days without cleaning and storing them in fresh solution

Sleep in your lenses unless specifically advised to by your practitioner

Wear any lens overnight if you are unwell

Use your lenses for swimming, hot tubs or water sports, unless wearing goggles

Wear your lenses when showering unless you keep your eyes firmly closed

Switch the solution you use except on the advice of your practitioner

Use any eye drops without advice from your contact lens practitioner

Share contact lenses or wear any lenses not specified by your practitioner

Remember that if you have any questions about your contact lenses you should consult your BCLA contact lens practitioner for advice