Why is it important to replace your contact lens case?
Many people don’t give much thought to their contact lens case, but it is a vital component in maintaining healthy eyes while wearing contacts. This tiny case is responsible for keeping your lenses free from harmful bacteria and other contaminants. If it’s not replaced often enough, it can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria that can cause serious eye infections.
How often should you replace your contact lens case?
The American Optometric Association suggests that you replace your contact lens case at least every three months. This is because even with proper cleaning, bacteria can still accumulate in the case over time. If you’re someone who wears dailies, bi-weeklies, or monthlies, it’s important to replace your case more frequently than every three months. In fact, many optometrists suggest replacing your contact lens case monthly, especially if you’re prone to infections or have sensitive eyes.
What are the signs that your contact lens case needs replacing?
Even if you’ve been diligent about cleaning your contact lens case, there are still some signs that it needs replacing. If you notice any cloudy or discolored areas, it’s time to toss the case and replace it with a new one. Additionally, if you’ve had any type of eye infection, it’s important to replace your contact lens case immediately, even if it hasn’t been that long since you last replaced it. This is because bacteria can quickly accumulate in the case, even if you properly clean it.
How can you properly care for your contact lens case?
To properly care for your contact lens case, make sure to rinse it out with contact solution after each use. Allow it to air dry, and don’t use towels or other materials to dry it as they can introduce new bacteria. It’s also important to replace your contact solution regularly and never use expired solution. Finally, make sure to store your contact lens case in a clean, dry area away from any other contaminants.
Why might someone need to replace their contact lens case more frequently?
There are a few situations where you might need to replace your contact lens case more frequently than every three months. If you have sensitivities to certain types of contact solutions or materials, you may find that your case needs to be replaced more frequently to prevent irritation. Similarly, if you’ve had any type of eye infection, it’s important to replace your case immediately and potentially switch to a contact lens case made from a different material to prevent reinfection.
