How Often You Should Replace Your Contact Lens Case

Even if you’re meticulous about replacing your contact lenses always tossing daily disposables after a single use and swapping out monthlies after 30 days chances are, your contact lens case doesn’t get the same level of attention. You may not even remember the last time you replaced it. Sound familiar?

Here’s the eye-opening truth The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends replacing your contact lens case every one to three months. And yes, that’s much more frequently than most people realize.

Why You Should Replace Your Contact Lens Case Regularly

It might not seem like a big deal to hold on to your case longer, but the risks of overuse are very real. According to AOA president Robert C. Layman, OD, contact lens cases can become a breeding ground for bacteria and biofilm the sticky buildup where germs thrive.

Over time, bacteria can hide in the grooves, seals, and threads of your case. Reusing an old case increases your chance of developing serious eye infections, such as:

• Microbial keratitis: An infection of the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) that can be painful and, if untreated, may lead to vision loss.

• Infiltrative keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea, also potentially vision-threatening.

Even if you only wear contacts occasionally, you’re not off the hook. Bacteria doesn’t wait for daily lens wear to multiply. The longer you keep using the same case, the higher the risk of contamination.

How to Properly Clean Your Contact Lens Case

In addition to replacing your case quarterly, daily cleaning is key to reducing the risk of infections. Here's Dr. Layman’s expert-approved cleaning method:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses or case.

2. Empty old solution from the case after removing your contact lenses.

3. Rinse the case with fresh disinfecting solution (multipurpose contact lens solution works well).

4. Wipe the case with a clean, lint-free tissue to remove excess solution.

5. Air dry the case face down both the case and caps on a clean, dry surface.

6. Repeat after each use.

This method minimizes bacterial buildup, especially if your case is stored in humid environments like bathrooms, where germs thrive.

What Not to Do When Cleaning Your Case

Avoid these common mistakes that can jeopardize your eye health:

• Never rinse with tap water. Tap water may contain microbes like acanthamoeba, which can cause rare but severe eye infections.

• Skip alcohol or hydrogen peroxide (unless specifically labeled for ocular use). These substances are not effective at breaking down tough biofilms.

• Don’t microwave or boil your case. Unlike medical-grade sterilization equipment, home methods like microwaving or boiling can’t guarantee bacteria elimination and may even damage your case.

Bottom Line

Your contact lens case is an essential part of your eye care routine and replacing it regularly is crucial for maintaining healthy vision. A simple habit like tossing your old case every three months could save you from potential infections and serious complications.

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