How To Remove Contact Lenses Properly

Because you will be coming into direct contact with your eye, it is important to learn how to remove contact lenses properly to reduce the risk of inflicting injury to your eye or causing a bacterial infection. Removing soft contact lenses properly is a fairly simple task once you overcome the fear of touching your eye. Prior to removing contact lenses, speak with your optometrist to discuss if there are recommendations or precautions that must be taken with the type of soft contacts you have been prescribed.

To remove contact lenses properly, you will need:

• A table
• A soft towel
• Antibacterial hand soap
• Water
• Saline solution
• Contact lens case (not needed if using disposable contact lenses)

1. To remove contact lenses properly, you first need to wash your hands using warm water and antibacterial soap. It is best to use a soap that is not fragranced. Wash and rinse your hands to reduce the risk of contamination to the eye or the contact lenses.
2. Before you begin removing the contact lenses, find a comfortable table. This will make the task much easier. Place a soft towel on the table's surface, which will be needed if you drop the contact lenses. The lenses will be easier to find and less likely to become damaged if they land on a soft towel.
3. Place one to two drops of saline in each eye prior to removing the contact lenses. In order to remove contact lenses properly and reduce damage to the lenses, it is best if your eyes and the contact lenses are moist.
4. Using your finger tip, gently slide the lens to the outside corner of your eye. Gently lift the lens using your index finger and thumb.
5. To finish the process of removing your contact lenses, you will need the directions that came with your contacts. Some contacts are disposable and can be thrown away. Others can be used more than once and require special cleaning after being removed. If your contact lenses are reusable, make sure they are soaked in contact lens solution while stored in a contact lens case to avoid contamination and destruction of the lens. Always use new solution each time you soak your lens and make sure the contact lens case is closed tightly.

To remove contact lenses properly, these steps will need to be repeated for both eyes. It is important to follow the directions provided by your optometrist and contact lens distributor for proper cleaning of the lenses.