Top contact lenses tips for safe and healthy eyes

Before you touch your contact lenses or your eyes, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dry them with a clean, lint-free towel to avoid any fibers sticking to your lenses. This simple step decreases the risk of bacterial buildup and serious eye infections, including keratitis and conjunctivitis.

2. Stick to your replacement schedule

Each type of contact lenses come with a recommended wearing schedule. Whether you're using daily disposable lenses, monthly contacts or extended wear contact lenses options, don’t ignore it. Wearing contact lenses past their intended lifespan increases the chance of irritation, blurred vision, and infection. If you find yourself falling asleep with your lenses in or wearing contact lenses in the shower, it might be time to speak to your optometrist about switching to a more suitable type of contact lens.

Regular check-ups with your optician are crucial for maintaining long-term eye health. During these visits, your eye care professional can check for signs of eye conditions, make sure your prescription is still correct and spot problems before they escalate.

Most contact lens wearers should book an eye exam at least once a year. If you wear lenses daily or have experienced eye problems in the past, more frequent check-ups may be needed.

8. Be lens savvy on the go

Travelling? Don’t forget to pack your cleaning solution, a spare contact lens case, extra lenses and eye drops. Always carry your glasses too, just in case. And avoid swimming in your lenses, even with goggles. It’s never worth the risk of eye infections caused by contaminated water.