Optometrist’s advice: what to check before wearing contact lenses

Contact lenses are one of the most comfortable ways to enjoy sharp vision and everyday freedom. They work well for sports and daily use. But before putting lenses into your eyes, it’s important to check a few simple things — this helps you avoid irritation and keeps your eyes healthy.

In this article, an optometrist shares practical tips on how to prepare for wearing contact lenses, what to check before each use, and how to care for your eyes so your vision stays clear and comfortable.

Why is it important to check your contact lenses before wearing them?

A contact lens sits directly on the surface of the eye and affects it for many hours a day. Incorrect use, dirty lenses or expired care solution can lead to redness, stinging and even infection.

Optometrists emphasise that taking just a minute to check your lenses before wearing them helps ensure they are clean and suitable. This simple habit prevents discomfort and supports long-term eye health.

Wash your hands before touching your lenses

Handwashing is the most important step before handling contact lenses. Even clean-looking hands can carry dust, oils and bacteria.

• Use an unscented soap that leaves no residue

• Rinse your hands thoroughly and dry them with a lint-free towel

• Avoid using wet wipes — they may contain alcohol that irritates the eyes

Clean hands help keep the lenses sterile and your eyes healthy.

Check the condition of your lenses

Before placing a lens in your eye, make sure it is clean and intact:

• Place the lens on your fingertip and check its shape — if the edges flare outward, the lens is inside out

• Make sure the lens is not torn — even a tiny tear can irritate the eye

• If the lens looks dry or has an unusual shape, don’t use it

These steps quickly become a routine and help keep your lenses comfortable in the eye.

Check the expiry date and condition of your care products

Contact lenses and care solutions have a specific shelf life.

• Look for “EXP” on the packaging — this shows the expiry date

• If your care solution has been open for more than three months, replace it

• Do not use lenses that have been sitting in a blister for too long or where the liquid has evaporated

Expired lenses or care solutions may contain bacteria or be too dry, increasing the risk of irritation.

Make sure the lenses fit your eyes

Every eye is unique — its curvature, moisture level and sensitivity determine which lenses are suitable.

An optometrist measures:

• lens power

• corneal curvature

• lens diameter

• eye moisture (if needed)

If the lens doesn’t fit, it may slide, cause friction or create blurry vision. If you feel discomfort, remove the lens and seek advice. Sometimes changing the material or moisture level is enough to restore comfort.

Always use fresh care solution

If you wear monthly or bi-weekly lenses, clean them every evening with fresh solution.

• Don’t top up old solution — leftover liquid may contain bacteria

• Don’t rinse lenses with tap water — it may introduce microorganisms

• Replace your lens case every few months

Proper care keeps your lenses moisturised and comfortable throughout the day.

Pay attention to how your eyes feel

Your eyes immediately signal when something is wrong. If you feel stinging, redness or blurry vision:

• Remove the lenses

• Clean them again with your solution

• If the feeling doesn’t improve, let your eyes rest and consult an optometrist

Contact lenses should be so comfortable that you don’t notice them at all. If they aren’t, don’t force it — your eyes need a break.

How to get used to wearing lenses safely

If you’re new to contact lenses, introduce them gradually:

• Day 1: wear for 3–4 hours

• Day 2: wear for 5–6 hours

• Day 3: increase to 8 hours

If your eyes feel good, you can extend the wearing time. If dryness appears, use hydrating eye drops suitable for lenses.

Lifestyle and contact lenses

Your daily habits influence which lenses suit you best:

• For sports, daily lenses are recommended — hygienic and practical

• For computer work, choose hydrating lenses to minimise dryness

• For sensitive eyes, look for highly breathable materials and gentle care products

An optometrist can help choose the best option for your eyes, ensuring comfort in all situations.

Small habits that keep your eyes healthy

With contact lenses, small details matter:

• Don’t sleep in lenses unless they are designed for overnight wear

• Don’t wear lenses longer than recommended

• Avoid getting lenses wet (shower, pool, sauna)

• Store care products in a cool, dry place

These simple steps protect your eyes and keep the wearing experience comfortable.

When to replace your contact lenses

Every lens type has a specific wearing schedule. If you wear monthly lenses, don’t extend their use even if they look fine. Over time, protein buildup and debris accumulate, and no cleaning method removes them fully.

If you notice blurriness or dryness, it’s time to replace the lenses.

A subscription order for contact lenses is a great way to avoid forgetting — fresh lenses arrive right on time. It’s convenient, fast and keeps your eyes happy.

Keep your eyes healthy and vision clear

Your eyes work tirelessly every day, so they deserve care and attention.
Wash your hands, check your lenses, use fresh care solution and listen to your eyes.

Contact lenses provide freedom and confidence — but only when cared for properly.
Turn these steps into a habit, and your eyes will thank you with clear, comfortable vision.

Want lenses delivered regularly and on time straight to you?
Choose a subscription at myeye.ee — fresh contact lenses without stress.