How to Rehydrate And Clean Contacts without a solution?
If you run out of contact lens solution, there are alternative methods to clean and store your lenses safely. It’s important to know these options to ensure your lenses remain hygienic and usable.
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How To Clean Contact Lenses Without Solution
To keep your contact lenses clean and free of bacteria, follow these simple steps:
- Wash and Dry Hands: Start by washing your hands thoroughly and drying them with a lint-free cloth.
- Clean the Lenses: Remove one lens and place it in a contact lens case filled with fresh solution. Gently rub the lens with your fingers (avoid using your nails) and then rinse it with the solution.
- Use Fresh Solution: Always use a new contact lens solution for cleaning and storing your lenses.
- Clean the Case: Rinse the contact lens case with fresh solution and let it air dry upside down. Once dry, put the clean lenses back into the case with fresh solution.
Alternatives For Contact Lens Solution
Every night, you should store your contact lenses in a case filled with contact lens solution to prevent infections and other issues.
This practice is recommended by eye doctors for all types of lenses, including daily disposables and prescription lenses. If you run out of contact lens solution, there are alternative methods to store your lenses safely overnight without causing damage.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide can be used as a temporary solution for storing your contact lenses when you run out of regular contact lens solution. It helps protect lenses from bacteria and reduces the risk of eye infections. However, you must use a catalytic platinum disc to neutralize the hydrogen peroxide before using it with your lenses. This method is effective and widely available, making it a good alternative in a pinch.
Eye Drops
If you run out of contact lens solution, you can use refreshing eye drops as an alternative for storing your lenses overnight. Simply fill your lens case with the eye drops and let the lenses soak overnight to help prevent eye infections. Refreshing eye drops are widely available at medical stores and serve as a good temporary solution.
Distilled Water
Some people might consider using tap water to clean their contact lenses, but this can introduce harmful bacteria like acanthamoeba keratitis. Instead, use distilled water as a temporary solution for cleaning your lenses overnight. After that, purchase a new contact lens solution for regular use. Always avoid tap water and opt for distilled water if you run out of your usual lens solution.
Saline Solution
If you run out of contact lens solution, you can use saline solutions as an alternative. Saline comes in two forms: nasal drops for children and liquid in squeeze-drop containers. Both types are pH-balanced to match your tears, making them suitable for storing your lenses overnight.
How to Make Home-Made Solution
- Boil the Water
- Boil tap water for 15 minutes to eliminate any germs and bacteria.
- Prepare the Saline Solution
- After boiling, add salt to the water and stir with a clean spoon.
- Cool the Solution
- Allow the saline solution to cool before use.
- Use the Solution
- You can use this homemade saline solution to store your contact lenses, including silicone hydrogel lenses.
This method is a temporary solution and should be replaced with proper contact lens solution as soon as possible.
Why Cleaning Your Contacts is Important
Keeping your contact lenses clean is crucial for maintaining eye health. Dirty lenses can increase the risk of eye infections. If you notice any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:
- Redness and itching in the eyes
- Pain in the eyes
- Blurry vision
- Excessive tearing
Things to Avoid with Contact Lenses
To ensure your contact lenses remain effective and to protect your eyes, follow these guidelines:
- Do not use expired contact lenses.
- Avoid sleeping with your lenses in.
- Remove lenses if your eyes become irritated.
- Refrain from swimming or showering while wearing your lenses.
What you can do if you don't have solution
If you find yourself without contact lens solution, the best solution is to borrow some from a friend, family member, or neighbor. Alternatively, visit your local supermarket or pharmacy to buy a new bottle. Ensure that the cleaning solution is compatible with your type of lenses before using it.
To avoid running out of solution in the future, consider these tips:
- Add Solution to Every Order: Include contact lens solution with each purchase to maintain a steady supply. You can also set up a reminder service to keep track of your solution needs.
- Switch to Daily Lenses: Daily lenses eliminate the need for cleaning solutions. Simply use a new pair each day and discard them at night. Consult your optician if you’re interested in making the switch.
- Try Extended Wear Lenses: These lenses can be worn for up to 4 weeks, including overnight, without requiring daily cleaning. Talk to your optician to see if they’re suitable for you.
- Purchase Travel-Sized Solution: Keep a small bottle of contact lens solution handy for trips. Consider options like travel-sized bottles or a Monthly Contact Lens Essentials Kit for convenience.
- Carry Spare Glasses: Bring a pair of glasses with you, especially when traveling or staying overnight, as a backup in case you forget your solution or encounter lens issues.
