If you’ve been wearing contact lenses for a while, you’ve probably been enjoying the extra freedom they provide. You’re popping them in every morning and taking them out before bed, thinking you’re following all the proper care instructions, but have you ever wondered if you’re replacing them on schedule?
The “lifespan” of your contact lenses depends entirely on the specific type prescribed for your vision and eye health. Our team at The Village Eye Care wants to help you understand how and why you need to replace your contact lenses on time.
Different Types of Contacts and Their Schedules
Contact lenses are not 1-size-fits-all, and neither are their replacement schedules. The kind of lens you have determines how long you should wear it before replacing it.
Daily Disposable Lenses
These lenses are designed to be worn for a single day and disposed of before going to bed. They can be a convenient option because you don’t need to worry about cleaning or storing them. You get a fresh, new pair every morning.
Bi-weekly and Monthly Lenses
These lenses are designed for longer use. You need to remove them, clean them, and store them in fresh contact lens solution every night. Depending on the lens design, they should be replaced every 14 to 30 days.
Monthly Lenses: 30 Days or 30 Wears?
Our team hears this question a lot: Do I replace my monthly lenses after 30 days, or after I’ve worn them 30 times? The answer is simpler than you think.
The clock on contact lenses’ expiration starts the day you open the sealed pack, not by how many times you’ve worn the lenses. Monthly lenses are designed to be replaced after 30 days because protein deposits, debris, and microbes can build up over time.
Why You Should Follow Your Lens Replacement Schedule
Trying to stretch the life of your contact lenses beyond their recommended schedule can lead to problems. Following the guidelines helps keep your eyes comfortable and healthy throughout the day. Sticking to the replacement schedule is an important step you can take to reduce your risk of an eye infection.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Lenses
When you wear contacts for too long, your eyes might let you know something is wrong. If you wear your lenses for too long or if they need to be replaced, you may experience:
- Eye irritation and redness
- Blurry vision
- Dry or uncomfortable eyes
Healthy Contact Lens Habits
A few good habits can make a big difference in your contact lens experience. A little care goes a long way in keeping your eyes happy while you wear your lenses.
Proper Cleaning and Storage
Always use fresh contact lens solution when you store your lenses. Never top off old solution or use water, as this can introduce germs. Your storage case needs to be kept clean, too.
Handle with Care
Wash and dry your hands completely before you put in or take out your lenses. This simple step helps prevent dirt and bacteria from getting on your lenses and into your eyes.
Give Your Eyes a Break
It’s a good idea to give your eyes a rest from contact lenses every day. Consider taking them out an hour or so before you go to sleep, which can help more oxygen reach the surface of your eye.
Find the Right Contact Lenses for You
Your eyes are unique, and the right contact lenses for you depend on your vision, eye shape, and daily routine. A contact lens exam and fitting is a great way to determine your specific contact lens prescription, which lens brand might be most comfortable for you, and how to care for your lenses to keep your eyes happy and healthy.
Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam
Finding the right contacts and a routine you can stick to can make a difference in your comfort. If you have questions about your current lenses or want to explore your options, our team at The Village Eye Care is ready to help. Schedule an appointment for a personalized contact lens fitting today.
