How to Care for Your Contact Lenses to Avoid Eye Infections

Contact lenses can be a safe and convenient way to correct your vision, but they require consistent care. Poor lens hygiene can allow bacteria, debris, and other irritants to reach the surface of the eye, increasing the risk of redness, discomfort, and infection. At Murrayhill Eye Care, we help patients protect their eye health with proper contact lens habits and regular follow-up care. We offer contact lenses and contact lens exams in Beaverton, Oregon, and emphasize routine monitoring to keep lenses fitting well and eyes healthy.
 

Wash Your Hands Before Handling Lenses

The first step in contact lens care is also one of the most important. Always wash your hands with soap and water before touching your lenses. Dry them with a clean, lint-free towel so you do not transfer residue or particles onto the lens. Even small amounts of dirt or oil can irritate the eye and make lenses less comfortable to wear.
 

Clean And Store Lenses the Right Way

If you wear reusable contact lenses, cleaning and storage matter every day. Use only the contact lens solution recommended for your lenses. Never rinse or store lenses in tap water, and never use saliva to moisten them. Your storage case should also be cleaned regularly and replaced as directed.

A few habits can make a big difference:

• Rub and rinse lenses as directed before storing them
• Use fresh solution each time - never top off old solution
• Keep your lens case clean and let it air dry
• Replace lenses based on the schedule prescribed for you
• Replace the case regularly to reduce contamination

Follow Your Wearing Schedule

Many eye infections happen when lenses are worn longer than they should be. Daily lenses should be discarded after one use, and monthly or biweekly lenses should be replaced on time even if they still feel fine. Sleeping in lenses that are not approved for overnight wear can also raise the risk of complications.

If your eyes feel dry, irritated, or tired near the end of the day, that may be a sign your lenses or wearing schedule need to be reviewed. Staying within the recommended schedule helps protect both comfort and eye health.
 

Never Ignore Signs of Irritation

Redness, burning, blurred vision, tearing, light sensitivity, or a feeling that something is stuck in your eye should never be ignored. Remove your lenses right away if these symptoms appear. Continuing to wear them can make a minor issue worse.

In some cases, symptoms may point to an early eye infection or a problem with lens fit. Prompt evaluation can help prevent more serious complications and get you back to comfortable wear sooner.
 

Keep Up with Contact Lens Exams

Even if your vision seems stable, regular contact lens exams are still important. Annual contact lens exams help confirm that your prescription remains accurate, your lenses fit properly, and your eyes stay healthy and irritation-free. Routine monitoring can catch small issues before they become larger problems.

Contact Murrayhill Eye Care to schedule your contact lens exam and get personalized guidance for safe, comfortable lens wear.  Visit our office in Beaverton, Oregon, or call (503) 579-2020 today.