According to The Vision Council’s 2024 Market inSights report, 19% of U.S. adults wear contact lenses—a figure that represents nearly 50 million people across the country. For many, contacts offer freedom from glasses and a convenient way to correct vision, but with that freedom comes responsibility. Even though lenses are a routine part of life for millions, it’s easy to forget that they are also medical devices that require careful handling and consistent care. Without the right habits, contact lens wearers may face discomfort, irritation, or even serious eye infections that could have been avoided.
This October, The Vision Council Foundation is taking the opportunity to emphasize the importance of healthy lens practices. Whether you’re a long-time wearer who could use a refresher, or someone new to contacts and eager to start off on the right foot, these reminders are designed to protect your eyes and keep your lenses working their best. Below, we’ve pulled together some simple but essential guidance to help make good habits part of your everyday routine.
Use Safe Storage
Contact lens care begins before they even enter your eyes. Cases should be cleaned out with a sterile, multi-purpose solution daily and left to air dry. The cases can be re-filled with fresh solution each time you remove your lenses to ensure they’re properly disinfected. You should never use water to store your contacts or re-wet them in your mouth. It is also recommended that you replace your case at least every three months.
Watch Out for Water
Whether you’re taking a dip in the lake, or unwinding in the bathtub, water can contain potentially harmful bacteria that could irritate your contact lenses should it get in your eyes. So next time you’re in the pool, consider reaching for a pair of tight-fitting goggles and make sure you rinse out your contact lenses with solution after hopping out of the shower.
Give Your Eyes a Breather
It’s easy to get caught up in the rush of day-to-day life where it becomes routine to pop in your contact lenses first thing in the morning and take them out right before going to bed. But just like the rest of your body, your eyes need oxygen to function properly. Pro-longed wear (including frequent naps!) increases the risk of injury to the eye. Try to make a habit of spending the first hour of your morning contact lens-free or take them out after work and enjoy the evening in your prescription glasses.
And as always, make sure you schedule your annual appointment to visit the eye doctor. They are there to discuss the various contact lens options available to you, issues with contact lenses you may be experiencing, and can help address any concerns or questions you might have.
