Contact Lens Safety Tips Every Wearer Should Know

Contact lenses give you the freedom to live without glasses, whether you’re playing sports, working outdoors, or simply tired of dealing with foggy frames. But that freedom comes with responsibility: following proper safety steps every single day. When contacts aren’t used or stored properly, they can increase the risk of eye irritation, infection, or even long-term damage.

If you wear contact lenses – or are thinking about trying them – it’s important to understand how to protect your eye health.

How to Care for Contact Lenses in Moses Lake

A few smart habits can make all the difference in your lens safety:

• Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching your contacts.
• Clean and disinfect reusable lenses as directed by your eye doctor or the manufacturer.
• Never sleep in contacts unless they are specifically designed for overnight wear.
• Replace lenses according to the recommended schedule—daily, biweekly, or monthly.
• Avoid wearing contacts that are damaged, torn, or past their expiration date.
• Keep contacts away from water (pools, showers, and tap water can all harbor harmful bacteria).
• See your eye doctor regularly for checkups to make sure your eyes remain healthy.

And most importantly: if you notice redness, pain, or blurred vision, remove your contacts and call your eye doctor right away.

Disposable vs. Reusable Lenses: What You Need to Know

Not all lenses require the same level of care. Daily disposable lenses are single-use, which means you wear them once and throw them away – making them the lowest maintenance and reducing the chance of infection.

Reusable lenses, on the other hand, must be cleaned and disinfected after each use. When worn correctly, they’re safe, but studies show they carry a higher risk of rare infections if cleaning guidelines aren’t followed. Sleeping in lenses or skipping disinfection can significantly raise those risks.

No matter which type you wear, the safest contacts are those that are properly fitted and prescribed by your eye doctor.

Why Non-Prescription Decorative Lenses Can Be Dangerous

Decorative or “cosmetic” lenses, often sold online or at stores, might look like a fun accessory – but they can be harmful if not obtained through a prescription. In fact, it’s illegal to sell contacts without a prescription in the U.S., and Canada requires a license to sell them.

Wearing non-prescription lenses increases the risk of:

• Serious bacterial and fungal infections
• Corneal ulcers (open sores on the eye)
• Permanent vision loss in severe cases

The safest way to wear colored or decorative contacts is to get them properly fitted by your optometrist, just like any other contact lens.

Protect Your Eyes Year-Round with Help from Advanced Eyecare Associates

With the right care, contacts are a safe and reliable way to correct vision. The key is consistency: follow your doctor’s instructions, stick to replacement schedules, and never cut corners with hygiene. Your eyes deserve it.

If you’re new to contacts, thinking of trying a different type, or simply need a refresher on safe wear, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor. A professional fitting and ongoing care are the best ways to keep your vision clear and your eyes healthy.

FAQ: Contact Lens Safety

Why do contact lenses have expiration dates?

• Using lenses past their expiration can cause dryness, irritation, and a buildup of debris, increasing the risk of infection and corneal damage.

Are daily disposables safer than reusable lenses?

• Yes, daily disposables generally reduce the risk of infection since you don’t need to clean or store them – but both types are safe when used properly.

Can I swim or shower in my contacts?

• No. Water contains bacteria and microorganisms that can stick to your lenses and cause serious infections. Always remove contacts before swimming or bathing.

What should I do if my eyes hurt while wearing contacts?

• Remove them immediately and call your eye doctor. Redness, pain, or blurred vision can signal infection or other complications.