How to Properly Care for Your Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are a convenient way to see clearly, but they also sit directly on the surface of your eyes. That means the way you clean, store, and wear them has a direct effect on your comfort and eye health. At Fox Eye Care Group, we help patients in Greensboro and surrounding areas enjoy the benefits of contact lenses while reducing the risk of irritation, dryness, and infection.
 

Start With Clean Hands

One of the most important habits in contact lens care begins before you even touch your lenses. Always wash your hands with soap and water, then dry them with a lint-free towel. Dirty or wet hands can transfer bacteria, oils, and debris to your lenses, which can lead to discomfort and increase the risk of eye infections.
 

This simple step helps keep both your lenses and your eyes cleaner throughout the day.
 

Clean and Store Lenses the Right Way

If you wear reusable contact lenses, proper cleaning is essential. We recommend using the lens solution prescribed or recommended by our team. Do not rinse or store lenses in tap water, and never reuse old solution in your case.
 

A few key contact lens care habits include:

• Rub and rinse your lenses as directed before storing them
• Fill your lens case with fresh solution every time
• Replace your lens case regularly
• Follow your replacement schedule for daily, biweekly, or monthly lenses

These habits can make a major difference in keeping your lenses safe and comfortable.
 

Never Sleep in Lenses Unless They Are Approved

Sleeping in contact lenses that are not designed for overnight wear can reduce oxygen flow to your eyes and raise your risk of infection. Even if your lenses feel fine, overnight wear can still create problems that are not immediately noticeable.
 

If you are unsure whether your lenses are approved for extended wear, we can review that with you during your contact lens exam.
 

Pay Attention to Wear Time

Wearing lenses longer than recommended is another common cause of irritation. Contacts can collect protein deposits, allergens, and debris over time, especially when they are worn too long in one day or replaced too late in their schedule.
 

If your eyes feel dry, red, or tired, it may be a sign that your lenses need to be removed or that your prescription or lens type should be reevaluated.
 

Know When to Take a Break

There are times when you should stop wearing your contact lenses and call our office. This is especially important if you notice sudden discomfort or changes in your vision.
 

Watch for signs such as pain, redness, blurry vision, light sensitivity, or unusual discharge. These symptoms should never be ignored, since they may point to irritation or infection that needs prompt care.
 

Keep Up With Regular Contact Lens Exams

A contact lens exam helps us make sure your lenses still fit properly, support healthy tear flow, and provide the clear vision you need. Even small changes in your eyes can affect how your lenses perform.
 

At Fox Eye Care Group, we work with patients to make contact lens wear as safe and comfortable as possible. To schedule your contact lens exam, contact our offices in Goldsboro, Greensboro, or Winston Salem, North Carolina, by calling (919) 778-9662, (336) 854-1290, (336) 292-7700, or (336) 760-2169 to book an appointment today.