As a rule, always wash your hands before handling contact lenses. [2] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Use the contact lens solution recommended by your optometrist or eye care provider. Don’t use water to clean your case—it may contain particles or bacteria that can accumulate on your contact lenses. Anytime you get a new bottle of contact solution, throw away your old case and get a new one to decrease your chance of getting an infection (most bottles of solution come with a case).
Saline solution hydrates the contacts and your eyeballs, which makes it easier to slide the contacts out and reduces your risk of corneal abrasion.
Always use a clean cotton swab each time you remove your contacts (reusing the same one makes it more likely you’ll spread bacteria to your eyes). Alternatively, bend the swab into 3 sections (2 grabbing sections and a middle section between them) to help your grip if necessary. [6] X Research source
This step is optional, but helpful!
It takes a while to get used to the sensation of touching your eye. Be patient and stay optimistic while you navigate this process for the first time!
If the lens is folded but you lost your grip on it, blink a few times to help push it out of your eye. If you’re struggling to get a good grip on it, use one end of the swab to gently drag the contact off the cornea and down onto your sclera (the white part of your eye).
Rub your lenses clean after every removal to make them last longer and protect your eye health. Only use a contact lens disinfecting solution to clean them. Water or saliva aren’t sterile and will actually put more germs onto your lens. [13] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Read the instructions on the contact solution bottle or packaging to find out how long you should keep your lenses stored. Once your first contact lens is secured in the case, you can repeat this process with your other eye.
