Contact lenses wearers – how to reduce your chance of developing an eye infection

There have been a few reports in the news this week about a rare eye infection affecting contact lens wearers. Whilst we haven't seen any cases of this infection, we thought we'd take the opportunity to remind people about best practice for cleaning and storing contact lenses. If you have any concerns about your eyes, please book in with your optometrist.

Cleaning and storing

After removing your lenses, clean them immediately to remove mucus, protein and debris that build up on the surface during the day.

• Place the lens in your palm and apply a few drops of cleaning solution as recommended by your optometrist. Gently rub the lens in a circular motion with your nger, not rubbing the lens too hard.

• Rinse the cleaner off with an approved lens rinsing solution.

• Fill the case with fresh cleaning solution to protect your lenses overnight. Always use fresh solution each time you clean and store your lenses.

• After use, rub the inside of your case with clean ngers, rinse with fresh disinfecting solution and allow to air-dry naturally. See image below.

• Replace your storage case whenever you open a fresh bottle of solution.

Remember

• Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses. Avoid using soaps that are strongly perfumed or contain moisturisers.

• Do not sleep in your lenses unless advise to by your optometrist.

• Do not use tap water or saliva to rinse your lenses or case.

• Use fresh solution each time you clean and store your soft lenses.

• Do not swim or shower in your lenses without seeking the advice of your optometrist.

• Avoid lens mix-ups. Always start with the same contact lens when you apply, remove and clean your lenses.

• If your eyes become red and/or painful at any time, please remove your lenses and seek the advice of your optometrist.

All our handling leaflets, for soft, gas permeable (hard), scleral and hybrid contact lenses are available to download here.