Contact lens solution: cleaning and maintenance

Cleaning contact lenses involves treating your lenses after wearing them with a solution designed to remove deposits. Whilst you are wearing them, proteins from your tears, oils from your skin, dust particles and other contaminants adhere to the lens surface. If you leave these deposits on the lenses, they can become cloudy and feel less comfortable.

There are various types of contact lens solutions, each with its own method of use. All-in-one solutions for soft lenses combine cleaning, disinfecting, rinsing and storage in a single bottle. You rub the lens briefly between your fingers with the solution, rinse it off and place the lens in a clean case filled with fresh solution. Peroxide solutions work using hydrogen peroxide, which dissolves organic residues whilst also disinfecting; after a neutralisation period of at least six hours, the solution is safe for your eye. Saline solutions are intended for rinsing and flushing, but do not clean or disinfect the lenses themselves.

Mechanical rubbing of the lens, also known as manual cleaning, is an important part of most cleaning systems. By gently moving the lens back and forth between your thumb and forefinger with a few drops of solution, you help to loosen deposits that would otherwise stick to the lens material.

Daily cleaning or replacement?

How often you need to clean your lenses depends on the type of lens. Daily disposable lenses are thrown away after a single use, so you don’t need to clean them. Two-week and monthly lenses are worn several times, and you should clean them every evening after removing them. Always follow the instructions for your lenses and solution, as not every system works in the same way.

Which solution is right for your lenses?

Soft contact lenses are usually cleaned with an all-in-one solution or a peroxide system. Hard (rigid) lenses often require a separate cleaner and storage-disinfecting solution. Never use tap water, saliva or a solution that is not intended for your type of lens, as this may not work properly and could irritate your lenses or eyes.

Rubbing and rinsing

Even if the packaging states ‘no-rub’, many eye care specialists recommend rubbing your lenses briefly. This mechanical action helps to dislodge deposits that soaking alone does not always remove. Rinse the lens with fresh solution afterwards before placing it in the case.

Fresh solution and a clean case

Fill your lens case with fresh solution every time and discard the old solution. Reusing solution can lead to the build-up of microorganisms. Rinse your case with fresh solution or saline after use, leave it to air-dry and replace it every one to three months.

At SMEYEL , you’ll find a wide range of contact lens solutions and care products for different lens types and preferences, from all-in-one systems to peroxide solutions.