Proper contact lens care is essential for eye hygiene, comfort and safe vision. While daily contact lenses do not require any cleaning, 2-week contact lenses, monthly contact lenses and some colored contact lenses need a precise daily care routine. Here are the right steps, the best products to choose and the mistakes to avoid.
Why is contact lens care important?
A proper care routine helps to:
- reduce the risk of irritation, redness and discomfort,
- limit deposits of proteins, lipids and impurities,
- help prevent certain eye infections,
- maintain clear vision and better day-to-day comfort.
Daily contact lenses: no care needed
Daily contact lenses are worn once and discarded at the end of the day. They do not require a lens case or solution. They are often the easiest option for occasional wearers, sensitive eyes or anyone looking for maximum convenience.
Daily routine for monthly and 2-week contact lenses
Reusable contact lenses require daily cleaning after removal. The recommended routine is:
- Wash and dry your hands carefully before touching your lenses.
- Place the lens in the palm of your hand.
- Add a few drops of contact lens solution.
- Rub the lens gently for a few seconds.
- Rinse with solution, never with tap water.
- Store the lens in a clean case filled with fresh solution.
Which contact lens solution should you choose?
The best choice depends on your lens type, your eye sensitivity and your eye care professional’s advice.
- Multipurpose solutions: daily cleaning, rinsing, disinfecting and storage.
See multipurpose solutions - Peroxide solutions: deeper disinfection, often appreciated by wearers with sensitive eyes.
Important: neutralization is required before putting lenses back in your eyes.
See peroxide solutions - Saline solutions: useful in some care routines, but they do not always replace proper disinfection.
See saline solutions - Rigid lens solutions: designed specifically for rigid gas permeable lenses.
See rigid lens solutions - Hydrating eye drops: helpful for dryness or discomfort during lens wear.
See hydrating eye drops
Can you use tap water on contact lenses?
No. You should never rinse or store contact lenses with tap water, bottled water or saliva. Only solutions specifically designed for contact lenses should be used.
What about colored contact lenses?
Colored contact lenses should be cared for in the same way as reusable soft lenses. Even if you only wear them occasionally, they still need proper cleaning, rinsing and storage in a suitable solution.
Toric, multifocal and rigid contact lenses
Proper care is just as important for lenses designed for astigmatism or presbyopia. Rigid lenses often require dedicated products and closer follow-up.
How often should you replace your lens case?
- Ideally every month, or with each new bottle of solution.
- Rinse the case with solution, never with water.
- Let it air-dry between uses.
What should you do if you notice deposits or discomfort?
- clean the lenses and place them back in fresh solution,
- use suitable hydrating eye drops,
- check that you are respecting wear time and replacement frequency,
- switch to daily contact lenses if your eyes are sensitive or prone to deposits,
- consult an eye care professional if discomfort continues.
Quick summary
| Lens type | Care needed | Practical advice |
|---|---|---|
| Daily lenses | None | Best option for convenience and hygiene |
| Monthly lenses | Daily | Use multipurpose or peroxide care depending on your needs |
| 2-week lenses | Daily | Strictly respect the replacement schedule |
| Colored lenses | Same as reusable soft lenses | Clean them even for occasional wear |
| Rigid lenses | Specific | Use dedicated products only |
Frequently asked questions about contact lens care
Should I choose a multipurpose solution or a peroxide system?
Multipurpose solution is suitable for most wearers for daily use. Peroxide systems offer deeper disinfection, but the lenses must be fully neutralized before being worn again.
Can I rinse my contact lenses with tap water?
No. You should only use a solution designed for contact lenses. Tap water and saliva should never be used.
How often should I replace my lens case?
You should replace your case every 1 to 3 months, ideally every month or with each new bottle of solution.
Can I mix different contact lens care systems?
It is better to avoid mixing care systems unless your eye care professional tells you to do so. The safest approach is to follow one consistent care routine with the product recommended for your lenses.
We recommend a yearly eye check and lens fitting review:
artoptic.ch/examen-de-la-vue.
