Are you a contact lens wearer? If so, you know how easy it is to fall into bad habits with your lenses. Whether sleeping in them or not properly disinfecting them, bad contact lens habits can lead to major problems, including serious eye infections like conjunctivitis.

That’s why we’ve compiled this essential list of bad contact lens habits you should avoid. Following these tips will help keep your eyes and vision healthy when wearing contact lenses.

1. Sleeping in your contact lenses

While some contact lenses are designed for extended wear, sleeping in your contact lenses is a habit you should avoid. When you sleep in your contacts, it can lead to serious problems, including corneal ulcers, infections (learn more about eye infections like conjunctivitis), and inflammation. This is because when you sleep, your eyes naturally become less oxygenated, which can cause bacteria to grow on your contacts and in your eyes.

Additionally, sleeping in your contacts can cause your lenses to dry out, making them more uncomfortable to wear and potentially causing them to become damaged or torn. If you wear contacts, always remove them before going to bed, even if you plan to take a short nap.

Consider daily disposable lenses: If you frequently fall asleep with your contacts in, daily disposable lenses are an excellent solution. Since you discard them at the end of each day, there’s no risk of sleeping in yesterday’s lenses, and you always start fresh each morning. Browse our selection of daily disposable lenses in our online store.

You can also talk to your Optometrist about other options better suited for extended wear. Always follow the recommended wearing and replacement schedules for your lenses and properly clean and store them to avoid potential complications.

If you wear extended-wear lenses and experience sudden changes in vision or comfort, have your eyes checked immediately and maintain regular check-ups with your Optometrist to help prevent future eye problems

2. Wearing your contacts for too long

Wearing your contacts beyond the recommended time is another bad habit to avoid. Your Optometrist will typically provide recommendations for how long to wear your lenses each day, and it’s important to follow these guidelines to ensure the health of your eyes.

When you wear your contacts for too long, it can lead to numerous problems. One of the most common issues is dry eyes, which can cause discomfort, irritation, and even damage to your corneas. Overwearing your contacts also increases your risk of developing an eye infection or other complications, as your lenses can become contaminated with bacteria, dirt, and other debris over time.

The daily lens advantage: Daily disposable lenses eliminate the concern of overwearing the same pair of lenses. Each day you get a fresh, clean lens with optimal oxygen permeability. This makes them ideal for people with busy lifestyles who might otherwise be tempted to stretch their wearing schedule.

We sell contact lenses online with a variety of contact lens options to meet different wearing schedules and lifestyle needs, including daily, bi-weekly, and monthly lenses.

3. Not cleaning your contacts properly

Following proper cleaning and disinfection procedures is crucial to ensure that your lenses stay free of debris and bacteria. Improper cleaning is one of the leading causes of contact lens-related eye infections.

To clean your contacts properly:

• Start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water
• Place your lens in the palm of your hand and add a few drops of contact lens solution
• Gently rub the lens with your finger to remove any debris or protein buildup
• Rinse the lens thoroughly with solution before placing it in your case

Use the correct type of solution recommended by your optometrist and replace the solution each time you clean your lenses. Never reuse old solutions or “top off” the solution with fresh solution.

Pro tip: Our contact lens tweezers, available in our online store, can help you handle your lenses more safely and hygienically, reducing the risk of contamination.

Skip the cleaning routine entirely: Many contact lens wearers are switching to daily disposable lenses specifically to eliminate the cleaning routine and reduce infection risk. With daily lenses, you simply discard your lenses at the end of each day—no cleaning, no solution, no storage case needed. This significantly reduces your risk of developing infections caused by improper lens care.

If you’re unsure how to clean your contacts properly or experiencing discomfort or other problems, book an appointment with your optometrist for guidance. They can provide appropriate instructions and recommendations for your specific type of lenses and eye health needs

4. Swimming with Contacts On

Swimming with contacts on is a habit you should avoid. Contact lenses can absorb water, which can lead to numerous problems. Water can contain bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can potentially cause serious eye infections, including a particularly dangerous parasite called Acanthamoeba that can lead to severe keratitis.

These risks are greater with higher water temperatures and in environments with steam, such as saunas.

If you need to wear corrective lenses while swimming, consider using prescription goggles or a swim mask instead of wearing your contacts. Prescription goggles are specifically designed for swimming and can help you see clearly while protecting your eyes from water and other irritants.

If you do decide to wear your contacts while swimming, take the following precautions:

• Wear goggles or a swim mask to protect your eyes from water and other irritants
• Remove your contacts immediately after swimming, and clean and disinfect them thoroughly before wearing them again (or if using daily lenses, discard them immediately)
• If you experience redness, pain, or other symptoms after swimming with your contacts, contact your optometrist immediately

An eye exam will determine the appropriate treatment and help you recover quickly while avoiding further complications.

5. Using water to clean your contacts

Never use water to clean your contacts. Water can contain microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and parasites, that can cause serious eye infections. These microorganisms can attach to your contact lenses and cause inflammation and potentially severe conditions that can threaten your vision.

Additionally, tap water may contain minerals and other chemicals that can cause deposits to build up on your contacts, reducing their clarity and comfort.

Always use a contact lens solution recommended by your Optometrist. This solution is specifically formulated to clean and disinfect your lenses and can help remove debris and buildup without introducing harmful microorganisms into your eyes.

The hassle-free option: If you’re concerned about proper cleaning or find yourself in situations where you don’t have access to proper contact lens solution, daily disposable lenses are the perfect solution. You’ll never need to worry about cleaning them—just wear them for the day and dispose of them. Keep spare pairs on hand by ordering through our online store.

6. Sharing your contacts with others

Contact lenses are classified as medical devices and are prescribed specifically for your eyes and vision needs. Wearing someone else’s contacts, or letting someone else wear your contacts, can introduce harmful bacteria and other microorganisms into your eyes, which can cause infections like conjunctivitis, inflammation, and other serious eye complications.

Additionally, sharing contacts can lead to other problems, such as corneal abrasions or scratches, that can cause pain and discomfort.

If you have a close friend or relative who needs corrective lenses, encourage them to visit an Optometrist and get their own prescription for contact lenses. This is the safest and healthiest option for their eyes and vision needs. Never share your contacts with anyone, even if they appear to have similar vision needs or wear the same type of contacts as you.

7. Using expired contacts or cleaning solutions

Contact lenses and cleaning solutions have expiration dates for a reason. Over time, the effectiveness of solutions can decrease, and lenses can become less comfortable and potentially less safe to wear.

Expired contact lenses can become brittle or dehydrated, leading to discomfort, and may also harbor bacteria or other microorganisms that can cause eye infections. Similarly, expired cleaning solutions may not effectively remove debris or microorganisms from your lenses, potentially leading to irritation and infections.

Always check the expiration date on your contacts and cleaning solutions before using them. If either has expired, discard them and get a new supply. When you order contact lenses from our online store, you’ll receive fresh lenses with optimal expiration dates, ensuring you always have the safest, most comfortable lenses possible.

It’s also important to follow the recommended storage guidelines for your lenses and solution and replace them as your Optometrist recommends.

8. Skipping eye exams

Eye exams are essential for keeping your eyes healthy and your vision clear. During an eye exam, your Optometrist can detect and diagnose eye diseases, such as cataracts and macular degeneration, as well as other eye conditions that may affect your eyesight and overall health.

Early detection and treatment of eye problems can help prevent vision loss and other complications and can improve your overall quality of life. It’s recommended that you have a comprehensive eye exam every two years, or more frequently if you have a history of eye problems or certain health conditions that increase your risk of eye problems.

Regular eye exams are especially important for contact lens wearers, as your optometrist can check for any signs of complications from lens wear and ensure your prescription is still accurate.

Why Daily Disposable Lenses Are Worth Considering

Throughout this article, we’ve mentioned daily disposable lenses as a solution to many common contact lens problems. Here’s why so many people are making the switch:

• No cleaning required – Eliminates the risk of improper cleaning and disinfection
• No storage needed – No cases, no solutions, no hassle
• Reduced infection risk – Fresh, sterile lenses every day significantly lower your risk of eye infections
• Convenience – Perfect for travel, sports, and busy lifestyles
• Comfort – No protein buildup or debris accumulation throughout the day
• Ideal for occasional wear – Only use what you need

Daily disposable lenses address many of the bad habits listed in this article by removing the need for cleaning, proper storage, and strict wearing schedules. They’re an excellent option for anyone who struggles with contact lens hygiene or wants the most convenient, healthiest option available.

Explore our range of daily disposable lenses in our online store to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

Shop Smart, See Better with Eyes by Design

Taking care of your contact lenses properly is essential for maintaining healthy eyes and clear vision. By avoiding these common bad habits, you can enjoy comfortable, safe contact lens wear and reduce your risk of developing eye infections and complications.

Need to restock your contact lenses or looking for helpful accessories like contact lens tweezers? Visit our online store for convenient ordering and delivery. And remember, if you experience any vision changes, eye redness, discharge, or other symptoms that could indicate an infection, schedule an appointment with your Optometrist right away.